Catalog
| Issuer | Panama |
|---|---|
| Year | 1931-1947 |
| Type | Standard circulation coin |
| Value | 1 Balboa |
| Currency | Balboa (1904-date) |
| Composition | Silver (.900) (Copper .100) |
| Weight | 26.73 g |
| Diameter | 38.1 mm |
| Thickness | 2.5 mm |
| Shape | Round |
| Technique | Milled |
| Orientation | |
| Engraver(s) | Obverse: William Clark Noble Reverse: Roberto Lewis |
| In circulation to | |
| Reference(s) | KM#13 |
| Obverse description | Liberty standing, holding fasces in one arm and an oak sprig in the other, resting the arm with the oak on the Panamanian shield. The country name is above, the purity and weight are to the right, and the date below |
|---|---|
| Obverse script | Latin |
| Obverse lettering |
REPVBLICA DE PANAMA LEY 0.900 GR 26.73 PRO MUNDI BENEFICIO 1947 (Translation: Republic of Panama 0.900 Purity 26.73 Grams For the Benefit of the World) |
| Reverse description | Armored bust of Vasco Nunez de Balboa facing left with wreath below and denomination above. |
| Reverse script | Latin |
| Reverse lettering |
· VN - BALBOA · (Translation: One Balboa) |
| Edge | Reeded |
| Mint |
United States Mint of Philadelphia, United States (1792-date) United States Mint of San Francisco, United States (1854-date) |
| Mintage |
1931 - Philadelphia Mint - 200 000 1931 - Philadelphia Mint; Proof - 20 1934 - San Francisco Mint - 225 000 1947 - Philadelphia Mint - 500 000 |
| Numisquare ID | 4115310470 |
| Additional information |
Historical Context: The 1 Balboa silver coin (1931-1947) reflects a pivotal era for Panama. Named after Vasco Núñez de Balboa, the denomination underscored national identity following independence and the Canal's establishment. Issued amidst global economic challenges, these coins symbolized Panama's economic stability, with the Balboa pegged to the U.S. dollar, highlighting close economic ties.
Artistry: The design adheres to a neoclassical tradition, common for early 20th-century national coinage. The obverse features a helmeted bust of Vasco Núñez de Balboa, typically facing left, rendered with dignified realism, embodying discovery and national pride. The reverse showcases the intricate Panamanian coat of arms, rich with symbolism including the Isthmus, tools of labor, and wings of progress, encircled by the legend "REPUBLICA DE PANAMA" and denomination. Execution reflects competent minting craftsmanship.
Technical/Grading: Struck in .900 fine silver (26.73 grams, 38.1 mm), the 1 Balboa is a substantial coin. High-points susceptible to wear on the obverse include Balboa's cheekbone, helmet details, and hair. On the reverse, fine details within the coat of arms (tools, Isthmus features, stars) are typically the first to flatten. Well-struck examples exhibit sharp detail, though bag marks are common due to size and composition. Luster varies from satiny frost to prooflike finish, depending on strike and die state.