1 Balboa Our Lady of Mercy Church

Historical Context: Issued by the Republic of Panama in 2019, this 1 Balboa coin continues the nation's tradition of commemorating significant cultural and historical landmarks. As a presidential republic, Panama uses its coinage to reflect national identity. This issue specifically honors the Church of Our Lady of Mercy (Iglesia de Nuestra Señora de la Merced) in Panama City. This venerable edifice symbolizes Panama's deep spiritual heritage, architectural legacy, and enduring faith, linking to the country's colonial past.

Artistry: The coin’s design employs a contemporary realist style, typical for modern commemorative issues. The obverse features the traditional effigy of Vasco Núñez de Balboa in profile, a consistent motif in Panamanian coinage. The reverse presents a detailed rendering of the Our Lady of Mercy Church. While the specific engraver is often uncredited, the artistic execution precisely captures the church's architectural elements, including its bell tower, arched entrance, and facade, offering a clear portrayal of the historic structure.

Technical/Grading: This bimetallic coin, 7.2 grams and 26.5 millimeters, features a nickel brass plated steel center in a nickel plated steel ring. High-points for grading include Balboa's helmet and facial details on the obverse. On the reverse, sharpness of the church's spires, roof lines, and intricate facade details are crucial. Collectors should assess strike quality, especially at the bimetallic junction, for weakness. A superior example will show crisp architectural separation and strong contrast, indicating excellent production.