5 Centésimos

Emittente Panama
Anno 1904-1916
Tipo Standard circulation coin
Valore 5 Centesimos (5 centésimos) (0.05 PAB)
Valuta Balboa (1904-date)
Composizione Silver (.900) (Copper .100)
Peso 2.5 g
Diametro 18 mm
Spessore 1.1 mm
Forma Round
Tecnica Milled
Orientamento Coin alignment ↑↓
Incisore/i
In circolazione fino al 31 August 1930
Riferimento/i KM#2, Schön#2
Descrizione del dritto Bust of Vasco Núñez de Balboa facing left surrounded by legend.
Scrittura del dritto Latin
Legenda del dritto REPUBLICA DE PANAMA DIOS LEY LIBERTAD BALBOA 1904
(Translation: Republic of Panama God Law Freedom)
Descrizione del rovescio Coat of Arms with seven stars above. Value in letters and silver content around.
Scrittura del rovescio Latin
Legenda del rovescio 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)
Bordo Reeded
Zecca
Tiratura 1904 - Minted from 1904-1905 - 1 500 000
1904 - Proof - 12
1916 - - 100 000
ID Numisquare 4147286110
Informazioni aggiuntive

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.

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