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2 1/2 Centavos
| Issuer | Republic of Colombia |
|---|---|
| Year | 1872-1881 |
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| Composition | Log in to see details |
| Weight | 0.65 g |
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| Obverse description | Log in to see details |
|---|---|
| Obverse script | Latin |
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| Reverse description | The reverse features a bold denomination expressed as '2 1/2' in large numerals at the centre of the field, with 'CENT.' inscribed immediately below. The mint name 'BOGOTA' arcs across the upper portion of the field in evenly spaced capital letters. The lower field is decorated with a series of small six-pointed star or rosette ornaments arranged in a semicircular pattern around the denomination. The entire design is enclosed within the same toothed milled border as the obverse, giving the coin a uniform and neat appearance. |
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| Additional information |
Colombia's 2½ centavos denomination was a direct consequence of the decimal reform of 1872, which attempted to rationalize a chaotic post-independence monetary system still partially denominated in reales. The fractional value was awkward by design — a bridge unit intended to ease conversion for populations accustomed to the old eight-real system. Production was split across the Bogotá and Medellín mints, and examples from the two facilities show measurable differences in die workmanship, with Medellín pieces generally exhibiting cruder execution.
At 0.65 grams, these were among the lightest silver coins Colombia ever issued, and attrition was considerable. Survivors in any meaningful state of preservation are scarcer than the nine-year production window suggests.