Catalog
| Issuer | Panama |
|---|---|
| Year | 1907-1918 |
| Type | Standard circulation coin |
| Value | 21/2 Centesimos (21/2 centésimos) (0.025 PAB) |
| Currency | Balboa (1904-date) |
| Composition | Copper-nickel (75% Copper, 25% Nickel) |
| Weight | 5 g |
| Diameter | 21 mm |
| Thickness | 1.9 mm |
| Shape | Round |
| Technique | Milled |
| Orientation | Coin alignment ↑↓ |
| Engraver(s) | |
| In circulation to | 31 August 1930 |
| Reference(s) | KM#7 |
| Obverse description | Coat of Arms with seven stars above. Name of the country around and date below. |
|---|---|
| Obverse script | Latin |
| Obverse lettering |
REPÚBLICA DE PANAMÁ ******* PRO MUNDI BENEFICIO 1918 (Translation: Republic of Panama For the benefit of the World) |
| Reverse description | Central denomination numeric, in letters around, seven stars below the value. |
| Reverse script | Latin |
| Reverse lettering |
DOS Y MEDIO CENTÉSIMOS DE BALBOA 21/2 **** *** (Translation: Two and a Half Centésimos of a Balboa) |
| Edge | Smooth |
| Mint | |
| Mintage |
1907 - KM#7.1 (`DOS Y MEDIOS`) - 800 000 1916 - KM#7.2 (`DOS Y MEDIO`) - 800 000 1918 - KM#7.2 (`DOS Y MEDIO`) - 7 |
| Numisquare ID | 3947787400 |
| Additional information |
Historical Context: The 2 1/2 Centésimos, issued 1907-1918, signifies Panama's early independence post-1903 separation from Colombia. Coinciding with the Panama Canal's construction, this period saw the young republic establish its monetary system. This copper-nickel denomination functioned as crucial fractional currency, circulating alongside the US dollar. Under presidents like Manuel Amador Guerrero, this coin symbolizes Panama's assertion of economic sovereignty during a transformative era defined by significant American influence.
Artistry: Struck at the United States Mint, the 2 1/2 Centésimos design reflects the American Neoclassical stylistic school. The obverse prominently features Panama's intricate coat of arms, depicting the Isthmus, sun, stars, and symbols of progress. The reverse clearly displays the "2 1/2 CENTESIMOS" denomination and date, often within a functional wreath. This design prioritizes clear national symbolism and legibility, reflecting the coin's utilitarian role in daily commerce.
Technical/Grading: Composed of copper-nickel (75% copper, 25% nickel), weighing 5 grams and 21 mm, this coin generally exhibits a strong strike. Key high-points for grading are within the complex obverse coat of arms, particularly the shield's intricate elements (e.g., tools, cornucopia) and the sun's rays. On the reverse, sharpness of lettering and wreath is crucial. Due to its utilitarian purpose, examples often show circulation wear; full detail in the coat of arms is a highly sought-after attribute.