Can Italian lira still be exchanged in Italy for Euros? We have about $50. US equivalent in Italian lira left over from a trip we took a few years ago. We had always thought we'd use it when we returned to Italy, but then the Euro came along. If the lira can be exchanged for Euros, are there only certain banks that would exchange? We will be in Rome for three days at the beginning of our trip, and would like to exchange the lira there. Are they now worthless, or can they be exchanged?

Hello meggies, I think your lira can be exchanged (bills not coins) until 2012 if memory serves me correctly. I have a lot of lira also. No doubt your hotel could advise you regarding which banks if any would exchange your lira. Best wishes and enjoy beautiful Italy!

You could also call an Italian consulate in the US. I used to call the Italian National Tourist Office for tricky questions, but that doesn't seem to work any longer.

Here you go meggies, you can exchange the lira notes and coins until 2012.

http://www.bancaditalia.it/bancomonete/cambiolire

Thank you, LoveItaly, for the Banca d'Italia reference. That is just the information I needed. Thanks to all for your willingness to help. This Fodors forum is a priceless travel tool!

It would take about 100,000 lire to equal 50€. 50€ would only be $35. How much lire do you have?

You have to go to the Bank of Italy head office in Rome or one of the branches to have your lira exchanged for euro. No other bank will perform this service esp for non-customers.
List of branches: http://www.bancaditalia.it/bancadita...filiali/elenco

You are sure welcome meggies! Hope you get enough euro for at least a few nice glasses of wine while enjoying an outdoor cafe in one of the lovely piazzas!

we buy lira coins, the ones gold-colored in center encircled with silver metal or the reverse, silver-centered encircled gold color.
We buy in lots of 5 for $5 US. Condition should be good to fine
Shoot us a message at [email protected] with all info if you wish to sell.