Cuba 1 Peso 1953 José Martí Silver coin

 Cuba 1 Peso 1953 José Martí Silver coin


see video:




The Cuba 1 Peso 1953 José Martí Silver coin is a significant piece of Cuban numismatic history, notable both for its design and its cultural importance.

Overview:

  • Country: Cuba

  • Denomination: 1 Peso

  • Year: 1953

  • Subject: Centenary of José Martí's birth

  • Metal: Silver (.900 fine)

  • Weight: ~26.73 grams

  • Diameter: ~38 mm

  • Mint: United States (struck at the Philadelphia Mint)

Historical Context:

This coin was issued to commemorate the 100th anniversary of the birth of José Martí (1853–1895), Cuba’s national hero, poet, philosopher, and revolutionary figure. Martí was a key intellectual leader in the movement for Cuban independence from Spain and is revered across Latin America.

Obverse Design:

  • Features a left-facing portrait of José Martí, showcasing his distinctive mustache and high forehead.

  • Around the rim: “CENTENARIO DE MARTI” (Centenary of Martí) and the year 1953.

  • The style is neoclassical and respectful, emphasizing Martí’s intellectual legacy.

Reverse Design:

  • Displays the Cuban coat of arms, with a rising sun, key between two mountains, and oak and laurel branches.

  • Inscriptions: “REPUBLICA DE CUBA”, denomination “UN PESO”, and the silver purity “26.7295 G 900 M” indicating weight and fineness.

Notable Facts:

  • Though a circulating coin, its commemorative nature and silver content make it a favorite among collectors.

  • It was minted in the United States, as Cuba did not have the facilities to strike high-quality commemorative coins at the time.

  • The year 1953 was symbolically important not only for Martí’s centennial but also as the year Fidel Castro launched the Moncada Barracks attack, an event often seen as the beginning of the Cuban Revolution. This gives the coin additional historical resonance.

  • Symbolism and Design Significance

  • José Martí's Portrait (Obverse)

    • Artistic Influence: The obverse was designed to reflect Martí’s status not as a militant revolutionary, but as a thinker, poet, and martyr. His calm expression and dignified posture highlight his role as a man of ideals and intellect.

    • Martí’s Legacy: He is often considered the “Apostle of Cuban Independence”, and his writings remain foundational in Cuban political and cultural thought. The coin pays homage to his enduring presence in Cuban identity.

    • Cuban Coat of Arms (Reverse)

    • The rising sun symbolizes a new beginning, possibly hinting at Cuba’s aspirations for independence and progress.

    • The key between two landmasses represents Cuba as the "Key to the Gulf" — a nod to its strategic location in the Caribbean.

    • The oak and laurel branches signify strength and victory.

    • Varieties and Counterfeits

      • No major design varieties were officially issued, but due to its popularity, there are some counterfeits in circulation, especially low-quality reproductions made for the tourist market. Always check weight, size, and edge reeding to verify authenticity.

      Value and Collectibility

      • Average Circulated Condition: $20–$35 USD (depending on silver market)

      • Uncirculated/Mint State: $50–$150+ USD

      • Proof-like or certified high-grade examples (MS65+): Can exceed $200 USD

      Prices may vary depending on market conditions, silver spot price, and collector demand.

      Historical Impact

      • This coin marks a turning point in Cuban commemorative coinage and is often seen as the bridge between pre-revolutionary and post-revolutionary Cuba.

      • It carries deeper meaning for Cubans today — it’s a relic of a nation on the cusp of revolution, minted just six years before Fidel Castro’s revolution overthrew the Batista regime.

      Cultural and Political Legacy

      • The 1953 José Martí peso is cherished not just for its silver, but for what it represents: national pride, a literary and political legacy, and a pivotal moment in Cuban history.

      • After the revolution, Cuba moved away from issuing silver coinage, making this one of the last silver commemoratives of the Republican era.

     

Comments

Post a Comment

Featured Posts

USA $5 Dollars 2003 American Eagle Liberty 1/10 Oz Fine Gold Coin

Image
 USA $5 Dollars 2003 American Eagle Liberty 1/10 Oz Fine Gold Coin American gold coinage holds a unique place in the nation’s financial and cultural heritage. From the early days of the Republic to the present age of commemorative and bullion coins, gold has symbolized wealth, stability, and trust. The evolution of American gold coinage reflects not just monetary policy but also historical milestones, technological progress, and national identity. This essay explores the development, significance, and enduring legacy of American gold coinage. I. The Origins of Gold Coinage in the United States 1.1 The Coinage Act of 1792 The foundation of U.S. gold coinage began with the Coinage Act of 1792 , which established the United States Mint and authorized the production of gold, silver, and copper coins. It defined the dollar based on a bimetallic standard, fixing a ratio between gold and silver at 15:1. Gold coins were introduced in denominations including the $10 Eagle , $5 Half Eagl...
Read more

Ancient Roman Empire TRAIANUS 98-117 Tetradrachm of Antioch or Syros Silver Coins

Image
 Ancient Roman Empire TRAIANUS 98-117 Tetradrachm of Antioch or Syros Silver coins The Roman Empire under Emperor Trajan (Marcus Ulpius Traianus), who reigned from 98 to 117 AD, is often remembered as a period of immense territorial expansion, architectural grandeur, and significant economic activity. Among the many artifacts that survive from this flourishing period, coinage stands as one of the most informative and widely studied categories. Coins serve not only as financial instruments but also as tools of imperial propaganda, cultural identity, and markers of political events. One of the most intriguing types of coinage from Trajan's reign is the silver tetradrachm minted in the Eastern provinces of the Roman Empire, particularly in cities such as Antioch and Syros (or Cyrrhus in Syria). This essay delves into the tetradrachm coinage of Trajan, minted in Antioch and Syros during his reign, exploring their historical context, numismatic details, artistic significance, and broad...
Read more

USA American Silver Morgan Dollar

Image
  The American Silver Morgan Dollar: History, Design, and Legacy Introduction The American Silver Morgan Dollar is one of the most iconic and widely collected coins in the history of U.S. numismatics. First minted in 1878 and last struck for circulation in 1921, the Morgan Dollar holds a unique place in the American monetary narrative. Named after its designer, George T. Morgan, the coin not only symbolizes the economic history of post-Civil War America but also embodies the intricate artistry and evolving industrial capacity of the United States during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. This article explores the history, design, production, economic context, and legacy of the Morgan Silver Dollar. We'll look into its origins, minting process, distribution, key dates and varieties, and resurgence among collectors in the 21st century. 1. Historical Context 1.1 The Birth of the Morgan Dollar The Morgan Dollar was born out of the political and economic turmoil following the Ameri...
Read more