Depicts a front view of the theatre La Scala where the Madam Butterfly was staged for the first time. Below, at left, the name of the engraver. Above the theatre roof a robin on a peach branch, with behind, in the background, a circle representing the sun.

La Scala (abbreviation in Italian of the official name Teatro alla Scala) is a famous opera house in Milan, Italy. The theatre was inaugurated on 3 August 1778 and was originally known as the Nuovo Regio Ducale Teatro alla Scala (New Royal-Ducal Theatre alla Scala).

Most of Italy's greatest operatic artists, and many of the finest singers from around the world, have appeared at La Scala. The theatre is regarded as one of the leading opera and ballet theatres globally. It is home to the La Scala Theatre Chorus, La Scala Theatre Ballet, La Scala Theatre Orchestra, and the Filarmonica della Scala orchestra.

Depicts Madam Butterfly (her real name Cio-Cio-San from the Japanese word for "butterfly) with typical Japanese cultural elements. The value is divided at sides, with a mintmark (R) at left. Below the character, a musical staff is divided in the middle by a stylized butterfly that divides also the date of the anniversary immediately below.

Madam Butterfly is one of opera's most enduring tales of unrequited love. Puccini's poignant score follows the tragic tale of Cio Cio San, a young Japanese girl who falls in love with American naval officer Pinkerton, with devastating consequences.