Catalog
1 Centavo
| Issuer | Peru |
|---|---|
| Year | 1863-1864 |
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| Reference(s) | KM#187.1 |
| Obverse description | Central field features a large radiant sunburst design composed of alternating straight and wavy rays emanating from a plain raised central disc. The legend REPUBLICA PERUANA curves along the lower periphery, while the date 1864 is inscribed at the top of the field. The entire design is bordered by a fine dentilated rim. |
|---|---|
| Obverse script | Latin |
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| Additional information |
Peru's 1863 decimal reform replaced the old real system with a new currency based on the peso of 10 dineros, making this centavo among the first coins issued under that framework. The reform was partly driven by pressure to rationalize trade with foreign merchants who found the colonial-era denominations confusing. Copper-nickel was an unusual material choice for South American minor coinage at the time — most regional mints defaulted to bronze — and the alloy was sourced through contracts with European suppliers rather than processed domestically.