1982 Italy 1000 Lire – Marco Polo & the Spirit of Exploration
Pick# 109a/b | Printed by Officina della Banca d’Italia
Issued during Italy’s final decades of the Lira, the 1982 1000 Lire banknote pays tribute to Marco Polo, the legendary Venetian merchant and explorer whose travels bridged East and West. Printed by Officina della Banca d’Italia, this note reflects Italy’s pride in its maritime heritage and cultural legacy.
Part of the 1962–1985 series, this issue blends classical design with symbolic imagery. With its vertical layout and depiction of Venice’s Doge’s Palace, it offers collectors a glimpse into Italy’s historical grandeur and its role in global exploration.
Design Highlights
Obverse:
Portrait of Marco Polo at right
Seal of the Four Maritime Republics (Amalfi, Genoa, Pisa, Venice) at center
Ornamental background with dragons and griffins
Text: Banca d’Italia
Printed in green, brown, orange, and purple tones
Reverse:
Vertical composition featuring the Doge’s Palace in Venice
Penal code text and denomination in ornate layout
Text: Lire Mille
Watermark:
Portrait of Marco Polo and “BI” monogram
Specifications
Attribute Details
Country Italy
Year 1982
Denomination 1000 Lire
Issuer Banca d’Italia
Printer Officina della Banca d’Italia
Size 113 × 61 mm
Material Paper
Pick Number P# 109a / P# 109b
Watermark Marco Polo & “BI” monogram
Status Demonetized (1995)
Why Add This Note to Your Collection?
This 1982 Italy 1000 Lire note is ideal for:
Collectors of exploration-themed currency
Admirers of Venetian history and architecture
Fans of pre-Euro European banknotes
Curators of Italian cultural and maritime heritage
Whether you're building a travel-themed collection or celebrating Italy’s legacy of discovery, this note offers artistic elegance, historical depth, and cultural resonance.
