Catalog
| Issuer | Timor-Leste (2002-date) |
|---|---|
| Year | 2003-2017 |
| Type | Standard circulation coin |
| Value | 10 Centavos (0.10) |
| Currency | US dollar (2003-date) |
| Composition | Nickel clad steel |
| Weight | 5.20 g |
| Diameter | 20.8 mm |
| Thickness | 2.15 mm |
| Shape | Round |
| Technique | Milled |
| Orientation | Medal alignment ↑↑ |
| Engraver(s) | José Bandeira |
| In circulation to | |
| Reference(s) | KM#3 |
| Obverse description | Rooster left above date |
|---|---|
| Obverse script | Latin |
| Obverse lettering |
REPÚBLICA DEMOCRÁTICA DE TIMOR-LESTE 2003 (Translation: Democratic Republic of Timor-Leste) |
| Reverse description | Denomination Below: Kaibauk representation (Crescent Ornamentation) Circle: Tais pattern along border |
| Reverse script | Latin |
| Reverse lettering | 10 centavos |
| Edge | Smooth |
| Mint |
Lisbon, Portugal Royal Australian Mint, Canberra,Australia (1965-date) |
| Mintage |
2003 - - 2 500 000 2003 - In sets only - 2003 - Proof - 12 500 2004 - - 2 500 000 2004 - In sets only - 2004 - Proof - 2005 - - 2005 - In sets only - 2005 - Proof - 12 500 2006 - - 2010 - - 2011 - thick numerals - 2011 - thin numerals - 2012 - - 2012 - In sets only - 2012 - Proof - 2 000 2017 - Royal Australian Mint - 1 080 000 |
| Numisquare ID | 6646371900 |
| Additional information |
Historical Context: This 10 Centavos coin, issued by Timor-Leste from 2003 to 2017, signifies a pivotal era following the nation's full independence in May 2002. Adopting the US dollar, Timor-Leste simultaneously issued its own centavo coins to assert national identity and facilitate fractional transactions. This period, under presidents like Xanana Gusmão and José Ramos-Horta, focused on post-conflict reconstruction and nation-building. The coin’s circulation symbolized the nascent state's economic autonomy and sovereignty after a long struggle.
Artistry: The specific engraver remains uncredited, but the coin’s design reflects a modern, nationalistic stylistic school, typical for new states. The obverse displays the "10 CENTAVOS" denomination and year. The reverse, the artistic highlight, features a stylized chicken (Galo, Gallus gallus domesticus). This depiction of a culturally and economically significant animal emphasizes local fauna and traditional agrarian life, directly linking the currency to Timor-Leste's unique cultural heritage and identity.
Technical/Grading: Struck in nickel clad steel, weighing 5.20 grams and measuring 20.8 millimeters, this coin exhibits robust qualities for circulation. Key high-points for grading include the chicken's comb, wattle, and tail feathers on the reverse, and the clarity of the numerals and lettering on the obverse. Well-struck specimens will display sharp feather details and strong relief. Collectors should examine for cladding separation or excessive wear on raised elements, which impact a coin's grade and aesthetic appeal.