Catalog
| Issuer | Panama |
|---|---|
| Year | 1904-1916 |
| Type | Standard circulation coin |
| Value | 5 Centesimos (5 centésimos) (0.05 PAB) |
| Currency | Balboa (1904-date) |
| Composition | Silver (.900) (Copper .100) |
| Weight | 2.5 g |
| Diameter | 18 mm |
| Thickness | 1.1 mm |
| Shape | Round |
| Technique | Milled |
| Orientation | Coin alignment ↑↓ |
| Engraver(s) | |
| In circulation to | 31 August 1930 |
| Reference(s) | KM#2, Schön#2 |
| Obverse description | Bust of Vasco Núñez de Balboa facing left surrounded by legend. |
|---|---|
| Obverse script | Latin |
| Obverse lettering |
REPUBLICA DE PANAMA DIOS LEY LIBERTAD BALBOA 1904 (Translation: Republic of Panama God Law Freedom) |
| Reverse description | Coat of Arms with seven stars above. Value in letters and silver content around. |
| Reverse script | Latin |
| Reverse lettering |
CINCO CENTESIMOS DE BALBOA ⋆⋆⋆⋆⋆⋆⋆ PRO MUNDI BENEFICIO G.2.500 LEY 0.900 (Translation: Five Centesimos of a Balboa For the Benefit of the World 2.5 Grams 0.900 Purity) |
| Edge | Reeded |
| Mint | |
| Mintage |
1904 - Minted from 1904-1905 - 1 500 000 1904 - Proof - 12 1916 - - 100 000 |
| Numisquare ID | 4147286110 |
| Additional information |
Historical Context: The 5 Centésimos (1904-1916) represents Panama’s foundational coinage, issued shortly after its 1903 independence from Colombia. This era was defined by profound U.S. influence, particularly the Panama Canal construction. As a nascent sovereign nation, Panama established its monetary system, pegging the Balboa to the U.S. dollar, symbolizing its economic ties and national identity. These early issues were crucial for domestic currency circulation.
Artistry: Though a specific engraver isn't widely cited, the design reflects the neoclassical style of early 20th-century American minting, as these coins were struck at the U.S. Mint. The obverse proudly displays Panama's intricate Coat of Arms, rich with national symbolism: the Isthmus, rising sun, tools, and cornucopia. The reverse features "5 CENTESIMOS" and the date encircled by a laurel wreath, a classic motif of honor.
Technical/Grading: Struck in .900 fine silver, the 18mm, 2.5-gram 5 Centésimos has key high-points for grading. These include the uppermost details of the eagle or sun rays above the obverse shield, and the highest points of the reverse laurel wreath leaves. Due to the small flan and complex Panamanian Coat of Arms, minor strike weakness is common, particularly on the shield's intricate elements, even on well-preserved examples.