Design based upon the upper portion of the Cuban coat of arms - the Phrygian cap of Liberty, decorated with a star, resting on a fasces. Country name as curved legend on top, motto `Patria y Libertad` as curved legend on bottom, weight and fineness on left, face value on right.
Obverse script
Latin
Obverse lettering
REPUBLICA DE CUBA
12.5 G.
900 M.
50 cts.
PATRIA Y LIBERTAD (Translation: Republic of Cuba 12.5 grams .900 Finess 50 Centavos Fatherland and Freedom)
Reverse description
Portrait of José Martí, left, Cuban National Hero (1853-1895) with a 5-pointed sparkling star near face; circular legend half top describing conmemorated event, dates on sides.
Reverse script
Latin
Reverse lettering
1853 •
CENTENARIO DE MARTI • 1953 (Translation: Centenary of Martí)