1000 ITL #665

Front

Giuseppe Verdi (1813–1901), Italian Romantic composer renowned as one of the greatest opera composers in history. Verdi created iconic works including La Traviata, Rigoletto, Aida, and Otello, and his music became deeply intertwined with Italian national identity during the Risorgimento. His portrait appears on this 1000 lire note as recognition of his central place in Italian cultural heritage.

Back

Teatro alla Scala (La Scala) in Milan, one of the world's most prestigious opera houses where many of Verdi's works premiered. The neoclassical theatre, designed by Giuseppe Piermarini and opened in 1778, has been the spiritual home of Italian opera and a fitting tribute to Verdi, whose works have graced its stage throughout history. The architectural facade is shown in detailed engraving on the front of the note.

History

This 1000 lire note belongs to the final series of Italian lira banknotes issued before the introduction of the euro in 2002. The 'Decreto Ministeriale 6 Gennaio 1992' is printed on the front, indicating this design was authorized by ministerial decree in January 1992. This Verdi design replaced earlier 1000 lire notes and circulated until Italy adopted the euro on January 1, 2002, with lira notes ceasing to be legal tender on February 28, 2002. The note features intricate intaglio printing and security threads typical of 1990s banknote production.