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| Slot: |
Spanish Colony |
| Origin/Country: |
PHILIPPINES |
| Design Description: |
|
| Item Description: |
PESO 1897 Philippine |
| Grade: |
NGC UNC Details |
| Research: |
View Coin |
Owner Comments
This coin is the first silver one peso coin minted specifically for the Philippines. It bears the name of the Philippines at the time--Islas Filipinas. Unfortunately, it was also the last of the Spanish-Philippines coins, because a year after these coins were minted, Spain lost the Philippines to the United States of America.
The obverse bears the left facing portrait of King Alfonso XIII as a young boy. Around the perimeter are the inscriptions, "ALFONSO XIII P.L.G.D.D." (Por La Gracia de Dios or For the Grace of God in English) "REY C." (King Constitutional) "DE ESPANA" (of Spain). Below the bust is the coin's date, "1897" between two five-pointed stars (the mint of Madrid's symbol). The coin's engraver was Bartolomé Maura y Montaner and you can see his initials "B.M." right under the neck of the bust.
The coin's reverse features the Coat of Arms of Spain, with the inscriptions "ISLAS FILIPINAS" around the top periphery, and "UN PESO" on the bottom. Included on the reverse are the initials of the assayers, Arturo Sandoval and Antonio Garcia Gonzales "S.G.", which can be found on the left side near the denticles. On the right side near the denticles is another initial, "V" and belongs to Remigio Vega Vega, the weight-master or balance judge.
The Spanish Coat of Arms used in this coin is the one used (1875) when the Bourbons were restored with Alfonso XII of Spain. It consists of an Escutcheon (shield) divided into four quarters, with an inescutcheon (smaller escutcheon superimposed) in the center, a point at the bottom, and the Spanish Royal Crown as the crest on top. The supporters consist of the Pillars of Hercules surrounded by a ribbon with the Motto 'Plus Ultra' written on it.
The images depicted on each quarter of the shield are, from 1st quarter (top left): A castle representing the Kingdom of Castille; 2nd quarter (top right): A lion rampant (rearing up) representing the Kingdom of Leon; 3rd quarter (bottom left): Vertical bands representing the Crown of Aragon; and 4th quarter (bottom right): Golden chains with an emerald in the center representing the Kingdom of Navarre.
Superimposed on the main shield is a smaller shield with three three fleur-de-lis, representing the House of Bourbon. At the main shield's bottom point, or ente en point, is a two-branched pomegranate plant with fruit and two branches. The pomegranate is known as a granada in Spanish. This symbol represents the Kingdom of Granada.
The Pillars of Hercules are an ancient name given to the Strait of Gibraltar. The motto "Plus Ultra" means 'further beyond' in Latin.
Finally, a crown sits above the main shield. It is adorned with precious stones: Eight rosettes (five which are visible), and eight pearls interspersed, closed at the top by eight diamonds also adorned with pearls and surmounted by a cross on a globe. This represents the Spanish Royal Crown.
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This is a nice coin that shows no trace of wear. Its design elements are well-struck and it possesses brilliant color with vibrant cartwheel luster throughout. It has a few light contact marks on each side, but retains a strong eye appeal despite the relatively light cleaning it went through some time ago. I acquired this specimen already graded.
⚙️ Coin Specifications and Information
Composition: Silver
Fineness: 0.9000
Weight: 25.0000 g
ASW: 0.7234 oz
Diameter: 37 mm
Edge: Ornaments (27 Fleurs-de-lis)
Alignment: ⬆️ ⬇️
Mintage:
KM# 154
📆 This Year In Philippine History
In March 22, 1897, the Tejeros Convention, also known as the Tejeros Assembly and the Tejeros Congress, was held in San Francisco de Malabon, Cavite, (now General Trias) Philippines.
The meeting was between Katipunan factions of Magdiwang and Magdalo. It resulted in the creation of a new revolutionary government that took charge of the Philippine Revolution, replacing the Katipunan. It followed on a previous meeting now known as the Imus Assembly. Filipino historians consider the first presidential and vice presidential elections in Philippine history to have been held at this convention, although only Katipuneros (members of the Katipunan) were able to take part, and not the general populace.
The revolutionary leaders called the convention to discuss the defense of Cavite against the Spaniards during the Philippine Revolution. Instead of focusing on the defense of the province, the convention became an election to decide the leaders of the revolutionary movement. Additionally, the issue of governance within the Katipunan and of the revolutionary effort, which was the cause of the escalating tension between the Magdalo and Magdiwang forces of Cavite, needed to be settled once and for all.
Bonifacio presided over the election as chairman of the convention. He secured the unanimous approval of the assembly that the decisions would not be questioned, and the winners be respected regardless of their stations in life or educational attainment.
Emilio Aguinaldo was elected president, with Mariano Trias as his Vice-President.
____________________
📖 Information sources:
Wikipedia contributors. (2020, June 2). Sheldon coin grading scale. In Wikipedia, The Free Encyclopedia. Retrieved 12:30, November 25, 2020, from https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Sheldon_coin_grading_scale&oldid=960391269
NGC, World Coin Price Guide, Philippines Coin Price Guide (Powered by NumisMaster), Retrieved 1400, July 25, 2022, from https://www.ngccoin.com/price-guide/world/philippines-peso-km-154-1897-cuid-1112353-duid-1519321
Numista Coin Catalog. Coins from Philippines. Retrieved 1410, July 25, 2022, from https://en.numista.com/catalogue/pieces15891.html
Wikipedia contributors. (2022, October 11). Tejeros Convention. In Wikipedia, The Free Encyclopedia. Retrieved 12:27, October 15, 2022, from https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Tejeros_Convention&oldid=1115394673
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| Slot: |
American Territory |
| Origin/Country: |
United States |
| Design Description: |
PHILIPPINES UNDER U.S. SOVEREIGNTY |
| Item Description: |
PESO 1903 USA-PHIL |
| Grade: |
NGC AU 58 |
| Research: |
View Coin |
Owner Comments
This coin is the first in the series of United States-Philippines (USPI) peso coins. Minted in Philadelphia, it was placed into circulation on 23 July 1903. The new peso, along with the rest of the new currency, initially met unexpected resistance especially from Chinese merchants, who preferred the Mexican Peso over the Philippine Peso, despite the latter having a higher monetary value. Recall that the new Philippine Peso was on the gold standard and was worth more than a Mexican Peso because in this gold exchange system, the new silver coins were token coins, the value of which was higher than that of their silver content.
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The silver surfaces of this near-Mint example still show a generous amount of luster, with splashes of delicate copper toning mostly on the peripheral areas. The few marks and minor hairlines that come with light circulation are not distracting, and only a trace of wear appears on the high points. Overall, it's quite an attractive coin.
⚙️ Coin Specifications and Information
Composition: Silver
Fineness: 0.9000
Weight: 26.9500g
ASW: 0.7800oz
Diameter: 38mm
Edge: Reeded
Alignment: ⬆️ ⬇️
Mintage: 2,791,000
KM# 168
📆 This Year In Philippine History
On March 14, 1903, the Manila Electric Company (Meralco), which supplies electric power to residents of Metro Manila (National Capital Region) and the exurbs that form Mega Manila, was established. Originally named "Manila Electric Railroad and Light Company", it was the first power company given franchise to operate electric cars, called Tranvia, and provide electricity in Manila and surrounding areas.
Meralco dates back to La Electricita, an electric company first organized in 1891. La Electricita began operations in late 1894, becoming the first electric company to provide electricity to Manila towards the close of the Spanish era. La Electricista had built a central power plant on Calle San Sebastian (now Hidalgo Street) in Quiapo, Manila. On January 17, 1895, its streetlights were turned on for the first time and by 1903, it had about 3,000 electric light customers.
The Manila Electric Company acquired both La Electricista and the Compañía de los Tranvías de Filipinas, a firm that ran Manila's horse-drawn tramways which was founded in 1882. Construction on the electric tramway began that same year. In addition to acquiring La Electricista's Calle San Sebastian power plant, the company built its own steam generating plant on Isla Provisora (later becoming the Manila Thermal Power Plant), which powered the tram system and eventually also the electric service. By 1906, the Manila Electric Company's annual power output capacity was around eight million kWh.
By 1915, electricity generation and distribution became the main MERALCO's main income generator, overtaking its public transportation operations in terms of revenue. In 1919, it changed its official name to Manila Electric Company. By 1920, the company's power capacity had grown to 45 million kWh.
Meralco's operation was interrupted during World War II and rehabilitation was undertaken in 1945. In 1962, it changed its ownership from American to Filipino.
____________________
📖 Information sources:
Wolters, W. G. (2001). Flooded with foreign coins. Spanish and American administrators dealing with currency. Problems in the Philippines, 1890-1905, Bijdragen tot de taal-, land- en volkenkunde / Journal of the Humanities and Social Sciences of Southeast Asia, 157(3), 511-538. doi: https://doi.org/10.1163/22134379-90003800
Available under a Creative Commons Attribution 3.0 license. For more information see
https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/3.0/
Wikipedia contributors. (2020, June 2). Sheldon coin grading scale. In Wikipedia, The Free Encyclopedia. Retrieved 21:30, September 5, 2021, from https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Sheldon_coin_grading_scale&oldid=960391269
NGC, World Coin Price Guide, Philippines Coin Price Guide (Powered by NumisMaster), Retrieved 21:27, September 5, 2021, from https://www.ngccoin.com/price-guide/world/philippines-peso-km-168-1903-1906-cuid-1085604-duid-1519450
Numista Coin Catalog. Coins from Philippines. Retrieved 21:24, September 5, 2021, from https://en.numista.com/catalogue/pieces4349.html
Today in Philippine History, March 14, 1903, the Manila Electric Company was established. Retrieved 10:15, October 1, 2022, from https://kahimyang.com/kauswagan/articles/1009/today-in-philippine-history-march-14-1903-the-manila-electric-company-was-established
Wikipedia contributors. (2022, September 29). Meralco. In Wikipedia, The Free Encyclopedia. Retrieved 10:34, October 1, 2022, from https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Meralco&oldid=1112962434
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| Slot: |
American Territory |
| Origin/Country: |
United States |
| Design Description: |
PHILIPPINES UNDER U.S. SOVEREIGNTY |
| Item Description: |
PESO 1903 S USA-PHIL |
| Grade: |
NGC MS 63 |
| Research: |
View Coin |
Owner Comments
This coin, minted in San Francisco, is the also the first in the series of United States-Philippines (USPI) peso coins, and was placed into circulation on 23 July 1903.
Having initially met unexpected resistance from Chinese merchants who preferred the Mexican Peso over the Philippine Peso, the unwillingness to adopt the new currency and its value resulted in the new Peso being accepted as merely equivalent to the old Mexican Peso. In other words, “the old money, which was less valuable in terms of gold, had the same purchasing power as the new” (Wolters, 2001, p. 532). To remedy the problem, the American government in the Philippines banned the import of Mexican dollars and any other foreign currency into the Philippines on October 1903 (Wolters, p. 533). Did this directive solve the problem? Find out in the comments section of my 1904-S Peso.
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This coin, although not evident in the image, is practically blast white. It has nice cartwheel luster and some lightly scattered marks. It has three dark toned spots on the periphery (trivial to me), from where I would guess it was once upon a time mounted. Overall, I find this coin rather choice and attractive.
⚙️ Coin Specifications and Information
Composition: Silver
Fineness: 0.9000
Weight: 26.9500g
ASW: 0.7800oz
Diameter: 38mm
Edge: Reeded
Alignment: ⬆️ ⬇️
Mintage: 11,361,000
KM# 168
📆 This Year In Philippine History
On May 1, 1903, the first Labor Day celebration in the Philippines took place. It was organized by the Union Obrera Democratica de Filipinas, the first labor federation in the country. Thousands of workers marched from Plaza Moriones in Tondo to Malacañang to demand complete independence, while chanting anti American capitalism and imperialism.
The Union Obrero Democratica de Filipinas formerly known as the Union Obrera Democratica was founded on February 2, 1902 by Isabelo delos Reyes and Herminigildo Cruz. It advocated the rights of the labor force during the American occupation of the Philippines. Delos Reyes who was arrested on August 1902 for sedition, rebellion and "conspiracy to the raise the price of labor" was succeeded by Dominador Gomez. It was Gomez who led the first Labor Day celebration.
Later on April 8, 1908, the Philippine Assembly passed a bill making the first day of May Labor Day, a national holiday.
Today, Labor Day (or Araw ng Manggagawa) in the Philippines is commemorated not only with parades and other forms of celebration, but also with rallies and demonstrations of the labor sector.
The celebration highlights the reality that the country's workers have proven to be partners of government for economic development and positive social changes.
____________________
📖 Information sources:
Wolters, W. G. (2001). Flooded with foreign coins. Spanish and American administrators dealing with currency. Problems in the Philippines, 1890-1905, Bijdragen tot de taal-, land- en volkenkunde / Journal of the Humanities and Social Sciences of Southeast Asia, 157(3), 511-538. doi: https://doi.org/10.1163/22134379-90003800
Available under a Creative Commons Attribution 3.0 license. For more information see
https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/3.0/
Wikipedia contributors. (2020, June 2). Sheldon coin grading scale. In Wikipedia, The Free Encyclopedia. Retrieved 21:30, September 5, 2021, from https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Sheldon_coin_grading_scale&oldid=960391269
NGC, World Coin Price Guide, Philippines Coin Price Guide (Powered by NumisMaster), Retrieved 21:27, September 5, 2021, from https://www.ngccoin.com/price-guide/world/philippines-peso-km-168-1903-1906-cuid-1085604-duid-1519450
Numista Coin Catalog. Coins from Philippines. Retrieved 21:24, September 5, 2021, from https://en.numista.com/catalogue/pieces4349.html
Today in Philippine History, May 1, 1903, the first Labor Day in the Philippines took place. Retrieved 10:25, August 8, 2021, from https://kahimyang.com/kauswagan/articles/1103/today-in-philippine-history-may-1-1903-the-first-labor-day-in-the-philippines-took-place
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| Slot: |
American Territory |
| Origin/Country: |
United States |
| Design Description: |
PHILIPPINES UNDER U.S. SOVEREIGNTY |
| Item Description: |
PESO 1903 USA-PHIL |
| Grade: |
PCGS PF 64 |
| Research: |
View Coin |
Owner Comments
The 1903 proof peso was the first proof Peso coin of the Philippines and the first proof coin in this series. A total of 2,558 were struck as part of a set that sold for $2 at the Philadelphia mint, along with “a few private requests by private officials in both the United States and the Philippines (Shafer, 1961). And as far as we know, “no sets were intentionally destroyed, released to circulation, or otherwise disposed of” (p. 32).
A lot of these proof coins have fine hairline scratches and some form of toning. This was because back then, proof coins were not packaged the way they are in the modern proof era—in cellophane envelopes or rigid plastic cases, fully protected from surface damage. Mind you, cellophane and plastic had not yet been invented in the 1900s, so tissue paper was used to “protect” the proof coin before it was placed inside a paper coin envelope.
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This coin is definitely a testament to the effects of tissue paper wrapping as it shows a few wispy hairlines. Nevertheless, this coin has devices that are razor sharp and stand out against flashy fields. The obverse shows russet and amber patina on brightly mirrored surfaces. The coin’s reverse is equally lustrous, sharply struck with watery, reflective fields, and peripheral toning at the twelve to four o’clock positions. In hand you will really see how attractive it is.
⚙️ Coin Specifications and Information
Composition: Silver
Fineness: 0.9000
Weight: 26.9500g
ASW: 0.7800oz
Diameter: 38mm
Edge: Reeded
Alignment: ⬆️ ⬇️
Mintage: 2,558
KM#168
📆 This Year in Philippine History
On May 13, 1903, Apolinario Mabini, often referred to as "the Sublime Paralytic", died of cholera in Manila at the age of 38.
Mabini was most active in the Revolution in 1898, when he served as the chief adviser for General Emilio Aguinaldo. He became the president of the Cabinet and secretary of Foreign Affairs. He wrote most of the decrees of the revolutionary government and prepared a constitutional program wherein he proposed a Constitution for the Philippines.
On December 10, 1899, during the Philippine-American war, he was captured by Americans at Cuyapo, Nueva Ecija, but was later set free. In 1901, he was exiled to Guam, along with scores of revolutionists the Americans referred to as "insurrectos" and who refused to swear fealty to imperialist America.
He returned to the Philippines in 1903 at the height of a cholera epidemic in Manila and died of it on May 13, 1903 in Pandacan, Manila.
____________________
📖 Information sources:
Shafer, N. (1961). United States Territorial Coinage for the Philippine Islands. Whitman Publishing Company.
Wikipedia contributors. (2020, June 2). Sheldon coin grading scale. In Wikipedia, The Free Encyclopedia. Retrieved 21:30, September 5, 2021, from https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Sheldon_coin_grading_scale&oldid=960391269
NGC, World Coin Price Guide, Philippines Coin Price Guide (Powered by NumisMaster), Retrieved 21:27, September 5, 2021, from https://www.ngccoin.com/price-guide/world/philippines-peso-km-168-1903-1906-cuid-1085604-duid-1519450
Numista Coin Catalog. Coins from Philippines. Retrieved 21:24, September 5, 2021, from https://en.numista.com/catalogue/pieces4349.html
Today in Philippine History, May 13, 1903, Apolinario Mabini died at the age of 38. Retrieved 17:42, August 29, 2021, https://kahimyang.com/kauswagan/articles/1127/today-in-philippine-history-may-13-1903-apolinario-mabini-died-at-the-age-of-38
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| Slot: |
American Territory |
| Origin/Country: |
United States |
| Design Description: |
PHILIPPINES UNDER U.S. SOVEREIGNTY |
| Item Description: |
PESO 1904 USA-PHIL |
| Grade: |
PCGS MS 63 |
| Research: |
View Coin |
Owner Comments
In 1904, the Philadelphia mint produced a total of 11,355 of these peso coins, with 1,355 being proof coinage as part of that year's proof set for the Philippines. The remaining 10,000 were ordered by Farran Zerbe, a well-known numismatist and 1907 American Numismatics Association president . According to Neil Shafer (1961), Zerbe "ordered these sets to be placed for sale at the Philippine Exhibit held as part of the Louisiana Purchase Exposition in Saint Louis in 1904" (pp. 32-33). Shafer continues to describe the coins: "the first strikings of this order...may have been prooflike in quality and appearance, but the majority of them were stuck as Uncirculated coins" (p. 33). It is interesting to note that although these coins were not intended for circulation, around 6,000 ended up in circulation due to the low demand at the 1904 expo (Shafer, 1961).
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This coin has very nice cartwheel luster with untoned silver surfaces. It is mainly brilliant white with slight toning near the rim on the obverse's right side. Marks that are commensurate with the grade are scattered here and there. The reverse is a bit cleaner but has a small spot on the lower right side of the shield. Overall, this is a nice desirable coin from the series' second year of issue.
⚙️ Coin Specifications and Information
Composition: Silver
Fineness: 0.9000
Weight: 26.9500g
ASW: 0.7800oz
Diameter: 38mm
Edge: Reeded
Alignment: ⬆️ ⬇️
Mintage: 10,000
KM# 168
📆 This Year in Philippine History
On October 19, 1904, the Polytechnic University of the Philippines (PUP), or Politeknikong Unibersidad ng Pilipinas in Pilipino, was founded. The PUP is a research and coeducational state university in the Philippines founded as the Manila Business School (MBS) and as part of Manila's public school system.
It was eventually promoted to chartered state university in 1978. PUP has more than 20 campuses and extensions across Central Luzon, Southern Luzon and Metro Manila. With over 70,000 enrolled students, PUP claims to be the largest state university in the Philippines by student population.
____________________
📖 Information sources:
Shafer, N. (1961). United States Territorial Coinage for the Philippine Islands. Whitman Publishing Company.
Wikipedia contributors. (2020, June 2). Sheldon coin grading scale. In Wikipedia, The Free Encyclopedia. Retrieved 21:30, September 5, 2021, from https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Sheldon_coin_grading_scale&oldid=960391269
NGC, World Coin Price Guide, Philippines Coin Price Guide (Powered by NumisMaster), Retrieved 21:27, September 5, 2021, from https://www.ngccoin.com/price-guide/world/philippines-peso-km-168-1903-1906-cuid-1085604-duid-1519450
Numista Coin Catalog. Coins from Philippines. Retrieved 21:24, September 5, 2021, from https://en.numista.com/catalogue/pieces4349.html
Congressional Serial Set, January 1, 1903, U.S. Government Printing Office, Dec 31, 1903, 532 pages. Page 414.
Wikipedia contributors. (2021, September 29). Polytechnic University of the Philippines. In Wikipedia, The Free Encyclopedia. Retrieved 12:09, September 30, 2021, from https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Polytechnic_University_of_the_Philippines&oldid=1047173176
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| Slot: |
American Territory |
| Origin/Country: |
United States |
| Design Description: |
PHILIPPINES UNDER U.S. SOVEREIGNTY |
| Item Description: |
PESO 1904 S USA-PHIL |
| Grade: |
PCGS MS 63 |
| Research: |
View Coin |
Owner Comments
In 1904, resistance to the new Philippine currency was still ongoing, even with the import ban of Mexican dollars and other foreign currencies in effect since October of 1903. But another law was passed by the American government in the Philippines in January 1904 that added more teeth to the previous law. This law, which took effect at the end of the year, penalized anyone who did not use Philippine coinage by imposing a heavy tax on the use of old currency. The combination of the two laws finally broke the resistance against the new coins, and "by 1905 the old currency had practically been eliminated from circulation" (Wolters, 2001, p. 533).
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This is a nice frosty and lustrous coin. It has a typical strike for the grade, and barring some minor spots, it is quite attractive with nice eye appeal.
⚙️ Coin Specifications and Information
Composition: Silver
Fineness: 0.9000
Weight: 26.9500g
ASW: 0.7800oz
Diameter: 38mm
Edge: Reeded
Alignment: ⬆️ ⬇️
Mintage: 6,600,000
KM# 168
📆 This Year In Philippine-related History
On April 30 1904, the Louisiana Purchase Exposition (also known as the St. Louis World's Fair) opened in St. Louis, Missouri. Among the exhibits was the Philippine Exposition--the grandest and most popular at the entire fair. Totaling $1.1 million to create and operate, it was the most expensive of all exhibits.
The international exposition, which went on until December 1st, celebrated the centennial of the 1803 Louisiana Purchase, and was attended by nearly 19.7 million people. Exhibits were staged by approximately 50 foreign nations, the United States government, and 43 of the then-45 U.S. states. These featured industries, cities, private organizations and corporations, theater troupes, and music schools. There were also over 50 concession-type amusements providing educational and scientific displays, exhibits and imaginary 'travel' to distant lands, history, and pure entertainment.
Imaginary "travel' to distant lands included one of the United States’ newly acquired territories, the Philippine Islands. The Philippine Expo was the largest, covering 47 acres filled with 100 buildings. It was part trade show, part cultural exhibit, where "thousands of examples of crops, tropical woods, and other goods were exhibited in addition to Philippine ethnic communities" (Kennedy, 1998, p. 42).
To show the Filipinos at their various cultural stages, ethnic tribal villages were built around a cityscape—a replica of Manila's walled city of Intramuros and a central plaza surrounded by copies of official buildings. The Manila area, along with model schools, bands, and police drill teams, was a way to represent the most "civilized" aspects of Philippine society, in stark contrast to the “primitive” setting of the tribal villages (p. 42).
Also in the plaza, the education pavilion presented the educational activities of American teachers. Nearby were the parade grounds and bandstand in which the more than 400 members of the Philippine constabulary paraded, drilled, and were housed. These troops were also brought to police the site (Kennedy, p.43).
Organizers choreographed ethnographic displays, having customs which marked special occasions restaged day after day. "Singers, dancers, and musicians performed regularly on stages from 11 A.M. to 6 P.M., and craftspeople such as pina (pineapple fiber) weavers and basket makers demonstrated their skills" (Kennedy, pp. 43-44).
Around one thousand Filipinos were brought from the Philippines to be on "display" at the fair. These included some 300 ethnic Filipino people from various regions around the territory. Among the most popular of these groups were the Igorots, an indigenous people of the Cordillera Mountain Range of northern Luzon. An Igorot Village was constructed and became one of the most popular of the exhibits.
____________________
📖 Information sources:
Wolters, W. G. (2001). Flooded with foreign coins. Spanish and American administrators dealing with currency. Problems in the Philippines, 1890-1905, Bijdragen tot de taal-, land- en volkenkunde / Journal of the Humanities and Social Sciences of Southeast Asia, 157(3), 511-538. doi: https://doi.org/10.1163/22134379-90003800
Available under a Creative Commons Attribution 3.0 license. For more information see
https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/3.0/
Wikipedia contributors. (2020, June 2). Sheldon coin grading scale. In Wikipedia, The Free Encyclopedia. Retrieved 21:30, September 5, 2021, from https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Sheldon_coin_grading_scale&oldid=960391269
NGC, World Coin Price Guide, Philippines Coin Price Guide (Powered by NumisMaster), Retrieved 21:27, September 5, 2021, from https://www.ngccoin.com/price-guide/world/philippines-peso-km-168-1903-1906-cuid-1085604-duid-1519450
Numista Coin Catalog. Coins from Philippines. Retrieved 21:24, September 5, 2021, from https://en.numista.com/catalogue/pieces4349.html
Wikipedia contributors. (2021, October 19). Louisiana Purchase Exposition. In Wikipedia, The Free Encyclopedia. Retrieved 21:20, October 19, 2021, from https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Louisiana_Purchase_Exposition&oldid=1050731702
Kennedy, Richard (1998). "Rethinking the Philippine Exhibit at the 1904 St. Louis World's fair". Smithsonian Folklife Festival. Smithsonian Institution. Retrieved October 19, 2021 from https://folklife-media.si.edu/docs/festival/program-book-articles/FESTBK1998_14.pdf
Wikipedia contributors. (2021, October 19). Igorot people. In Wikipedia, The Free Encyclopedia. Retrieved 21:20, October 19, 2021, from https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Igorot_people&oldid=1050741294
|
| Slot: |
American Territory |
| Origin/Country: |
United States |
| Design Description: |
PHILIPPINES UNDER U.S. SOVEREIGNTY |
| Item Description: |
PESO 1904 USA-PHIL |
| Grade: |
PCGS PF 63 |
| Research: |
View Coin |
Owner Comments
This is the second proof Peso coin in the series. It was struck at the Philadelphia mint as part of that year's proof set. Neil Shafer, leading author and expert on USPI coins, shared that "None of these were struck specifically for circulation. Sold at the mint throughout the year was a total of 1,355 sets. These were struck on order and were regular Proof issues" (p. 32).
Most of these proof coins have fine hairline scratches and some form of toning resulting from the packaging. Back then, in the absence of plastic, tissue paper was used to “protect” the proof coin before it was placed inside a paper coin envelope, resulting in the fine surface scratches.
🔎
This splendid Choice specimen offers razor-sharp design elements and nicely mirrored fields. While mainly white, it has dabs of toning at the periphery. Although each side is lightly hairlined, this coin exudes great eye appeal and has an attractive overall quality.
⚙️ Coin Specifications and Information
Composition: Silver
Fineness: 0.9000
Weight: 26.9500g
ASW: 0.7800oz
Diameter: 38mm
Edge: Reeded
Alignment: ⬆️ ⬇️
Mintage: 1,355
KM#168
📆 This Year in Philippine History
On July 26, 1904, The Pagsanjan Gorge National Park was established through Executive Order No. 33 signed by Civil Governor Luke Edward Wright. Called the Carilaya Falls Reserve back then, it covered 14, 560 acres (5,892.22 hectares) and was initially set aside for the development of water power from the falls of the Caliraya River.
In 1913, Governor-General William Forbes reduced its size to 4,990 acres (2,019.34 hectares). Then in 1939, President Manuel Quezon reclassified and renamed the reserve to Pagsanjan Gorge National Park and further reduced its area to the present size of 377.2 acres (152.64 hectares).
Pagsanjan Gorge National Park is a national park and tourist zone located in the province of Laguna in the Philippines, approximately 62 miles (100 km) southeast of Manila. It is one of the oldest parks in the country, and it protects an area of 377.2 acres (152.64 hectares) around a series of gorges on the Bumbungan River leading to the famous Pagsanjan Falls waterfall.
The three-drop waterfall can be reached by a river trip on dugout canoe, known locally as Shooting the rapids, originating from the municipality of Pagsanjan. This boat ride has been an attraction since the Spanish Colonial Era with the oldest written account in 1894.
____________________
📖 Information sources:
Shafer, N. (1961). United States Territorial Coinage for the Philippine Islands. Whitman Publishing Company.
Wikipedia contributors. (2020, June 2). Sheldon coin grading scale. In Wikipedia, The Free Encyclopedia. Retrieved 21:30, September 5, 2021, from https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Sheldon_coin_grading_scale&oldid=960391269
NGC, World Coin Price Guide, Philippines Coin Price Guide (Powered by NumisMaster), Retrieved 21:27, September 5, 2021, from https://www.ngccoin.com/price-guide/world/philippines-peso-km-168-1903-1906-cuid-1085604-duid-1519450
Numista Coin Catalog. Coins from Philippines. Retrieved 21:24, September 5, 2021, from https://en.numista.com/catalogue/pieces4349.html
Wikipedia contributors. (2020, October 30). Pagsanjan Gorge National Park. In Wikipedia, The Free Encyclopedia. Retrieved 08:40, August 18, 2021, from https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Pagsanjan_Gorge_National_Park&oldid=986242712
Wikipedia contributors. (2021, May 21). Pagsanjan Falls. In Wikipedia, The Free Encyclopedia. Retrieved 09:02, August 18, 2021, from https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Pagsanjan_Falls&oldid=1024306854
|
| Slot: |
American Territory |
| Origin/Country: |
United States |
| Design Description: |
PHILIPPINES UNDER U.S. SOVEREIGNTY |
| Item Description: |
PESO 1905 S USA-PHIL |
| Grade: |
NGC AU 58 |
| Research: |
View Coin |
Owner Comments
The 1905 Peso is scarce in the Choice to Gem (and above) grade. One of the reasons is due to the coin's weight and size which made it prone to bag marks. Another reason is the coin's availability. There simply aren’t enough of these surviving in pristine condition today due to a series of events that began that year:
1905--the new Philippine Peso was just a couple of years into circulation and had barely gained wide acceptance when new obstacles emerged. In April 1905, the price of silver began to increase rapidly, resulting in the value of the Peso coin’s silver content becoming more than its monetary value. As a result, it became profitable to sell the coins and melt them. People began hoarding and exporting these silver coins to places like Hong Kong, prompting the government to intervene. So as a temporary way of dealing with the problem, laws were passed that made it illegal to export Peso coins. (To read what happens next in this story, please view the comments of my 1906-S Peso.)
🔎
Abundant luster remains on this coin's blast white surfaces. This coin is fairly clean for having seen brief circulation, with just the usual handling marks commensurate for its grade.
⚙️ Coin Specifications and Information
Composition: Silver
Fineness: 0.9000
Weight: 26.9500g
ASW: 0.7800oz
Diameter: 38mm
Edge: Reeded
Alignment: ⬆️ ⬇️
Mintage: 6,056,000
KM# 168
📆 This Year In Philippine History
On January 15, 1905, local elections were held for provincial and municipal posts throughout the Philippine Archipelago. Famous lawyers and doctors including the rich and the wealthy, political families were elected. Manuel L. Quezon and Sergio Osmeña Sr. (who would later become Philippine presidents) were elected as the first Filipino provincial governors of Tayabas and Cebu.
____________________
📖 Information sources:
Wikipedia contributors. (2020, June 2). Sheldon coin grading scale. In Wikipedia, The Free Encyclopedia. Retrieved 21:30, September 5, 2021, from https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Sheldon_coin_grading_scale&oldid=960391269
NGC, World Coin Price Guide, Philippines Coin Price Guide (Powered by NumisMaster), Retrieved 21:27, September 5, 2021, from https://www.ngccoin.com/price-guide/world/philippines-peso-km-168-1903-1906-cuid-1085604-duid-1519450
Numista Coin Catalog. Coins from Philippines. Retrieved 21:24, September 5, 2021, from https://en.numista.com/catalogue/pieces4349.html
Wikipedia contributors. (2021, September 11). 1905 Philippine local elections. In Wikipedia, The Free Encyclopedia. Retrieved 15:36, September 12, 2021, from https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=1905_Philippine_local_elections&oldid=1043780297
|
| Slot: |
American Territory |
| Origin/Country: |
United States |
| Design Description: |
PHILIPPINES UNDER U.S. SOVEREIGNTY |
| Item Description: |
PESO 1905 S USA-PHIL STRAIGHT SERIF ALLEN-16.06a |
| Grade: |
PCGS XF 45 |
| Research: |
View Coin |
Owner Comments
This 1905 issue is the scarce Straight Serif variety. It is characterized by having a triangular-shaped top number "1" in the date, instead of the curved top of the other variety. Although this coin's mintage is unknown, it is estimated that only a small fraction of the 6 million struck are from the Straight Serif reverse die.
🔎
This piece was the sleeper coin of my set because I acquired it as an extra in one of my trades during the early part of my set-building. I had very little interest in it at the time because for one, it was not blast white, which is how I preferred my coins back then. Another reason was because of its low grade. Last, I did not realize at the time that a straight serif variety was a bit scarce. So, it remained forgotten because NGC didn't include it in the set until recently. Now it is no longer forgotten, but proudly displayed with the rest of the coins in "Ye Olde Peso Collection."
This choice extremely fine beauty is richly toned with dense, deep-brown toning over both sides. There is only slight, overall wear at the coin's highest points. It has scattered dark spots and a dark toned area on the reverse rim top area, but all the details are still full and very sharp. It has eye appeal for those into toned coins.
⚙️ Coin Specifications and Information
Composition: Silver
Fineness: 0.9000
Weight: 26.9500g
ASW: 0.7800oz
Diameter: 38mm
Edge: Reeded
Alignment: ⬆️ ⬇️
Mintage: Unknown
KM#168
📆 This Year in Philippine History
In 1905, the Federalista Party (Partido Federalista in Tagalog), a conservative political organization, rescinded their statehood platform due to limited appeal. Their original platform was for the Philippines to become a U.S. state.
The Federalistas, who were favored by the Americans such as governor-general William Howard Taft, dominated the assembly until 1905 when internal divisions and the new Nacionalista Party began to dominate the assembly. With declining political fortunes, the Federalistas has no choice but to revoke their statehood platform.
The Partido Federalista was originally formed in 1900 by the ilustrados, a Filipino native elite class (which literally meant "enlightened ones") and later renamed the National Progressive Party (Progresista Party in Tagalog). They took up a platform of independence.
____________________
📖 Information sources:
Wikipedia contributors. (2020, June 2). Sheldon coin grading scale. In Wikipedia, The Free Encyclopedia. Retrieved 21:30, September 5, 2021, from https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Sheldon_coin_grading_scale&oldid=960391269
NGC, World Coin Price Guide, Philippines Coin Price Guide (Powered by NumisMaster), Retrieved 21:27, September 5, 2021, from https://www.ngccoin.com/price-guide/world/philippines-peso-km-168-1903-1906-cuid-1085604-duid-1519450
Numista Coin Catalog. Coins from Philippines. Retrieved 21:24, September 5, 2021, from https://en.numista.com/catalogue/pieces4349.html
Wikipedia contributors. (2021, October 5). Progresista Party. In Wikipedia, The Free Encyclopedia. Retrieved 21:31, October 5, 2021, from https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Progresista_Party&oldid=1048313810
|
| Slot: |
American Territory |
| Origin/Country: |
United States |
| Design Description: |
PHILIPPINES UNDER U.S. SOVEREIGNTY |
| Item Description: |
PESO 1905 USA-PHIL |
| Grade: |
NGC PF 62 |
| Research: |
View Coin |
Owner Comments
Minted at the Philadelphia mint, only 471 of these coins were struck as part of proof sets which, according to Neil Shafer, “were made only upon order.” With such a minuscule number minted, the 1905 is the rarest of all the USPI proof pesos. Neil notes that “by the end of the year, all 1905 sets had been absorbed into collections and no more were available.”
A lot of these proof coins, like previous year issues, have fine hairline scratches and some form of toning. This was because back then, proof coins were not packaged the way they are in the modern proof era—in cellophane envelopes or rigid plastic cases, fully protected from surface damage. So tissue paper was used to “protect” the proof coin before it was placed inside a paper coin envelope.
🔎
This coin is definitely a testament to the tissue paper wrapping as it shows quite a few hairlines. It is a white coin with some luster left despite the grade. And being a proof coin, it retains its sharp strike, evident on Lady Liberty as well as on the eagle’s feathers, rim, and prominent denticles. It has a few tiny carbon spots and small marks scattered throughout, but overall, the eye-appeal is still good.
⚙️ Coin Specifications and Information
Composition: Silver
Fineness: 0.9000
Weight: 26.9500g
ASW: 0.7800oz
Diameter: 38mm
Edge: Reeded
Alignment: ⬆️ ⬇️
Mintage: 471
KM# 168
📆 This Year in Philippine History
On July 29, 1905, US Secretary of War William Howard Taft made a secret agreement with Japanese Prime Minister Katsura agreeing to Japanese free rein in Korea in return for non-interference with the US in the Philippines.
____________________
📖 Information sources:
Shafer, N. (1961). United States Territorial Coinage for the Philippine Islands. Whitman Publishing Company.
Wikipedia contributors. (2020, June 2). Sheldon coin grading scale. In Wikipedia, The Free Encyclopedia. Retrieved 21:30, September 5, 2021, from https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Sheldon_coin_grading_scale&oldid=960391269
NGC, World Coin Price Guide, Philippines Coin Price Guide (Powered by NumisMaster), Retrieved 21:27, September 5, 2021, from https://www.ngccoin.com/price-guide/world/philippines-peso-km-168-1903-1906-cuid-1085604-duid-1519450
Numista Coin Catalog. Coins from Philippines. Retrieved 21:24, September 5, 2021, from https://en.numista.com/catalogue/pieces4349.html
What Happened on July 29, 1905. Retrieved 11:20, September 7, 2021, from https://www.onthisday.com/date/1905/july/29
|
| Slot: |
American Territory |
| Origin/Country: |
United States |
| Design Description: |
PHILIPPINES UNDER U.S. SOVEREIGNTY |
| Item Description: |
PESO 1906 S USA-PHIL |
| Grade: |
NGC AU Details |
| Research: |
View Coin |
Owner Comments
🗝️
1906 is the last year of the large-sized USPI Peso coin. This one is considered the "King of Philippine Pesos" because it is the rarest and the most sought after coin in the series—the key date.
Many factors make this coin rare. To begin with, mintage was a low 201,000, compared to an average of 6.65 million business strikes minted during the previous years. That’s only about 3% of what should have been produced.
Reasons for this low mintage began in 1905 when the global price of silver increased, resulting in the Peso coin’s silver content value becoming more than its monetary value. As an interim solution to the problem, the government stopped minting these Peso coins by mid-1906, and kept almost all of them in the treasury, unissued (Shafer, 1961).
By November, the silver crisis only got worse and the Peso coin’s bullion value continued to increase, surpassing its monetary value by as much as 13% (Shafer, 1961). A more permanent solution was needed, and this meant recoining the Peso into a coin of smaller fine silver content. So, under a Congressional Act approved on June 23, 1906, along with a Philippine Commission Act approved on December 6, 1906, the green light was given to re-coin Philippine silver coins.
The re-coinage of the Peso is perhaps the main reason for the cause of the 1906-S's rarity. With authorization from Congress and the Philippine Commission, the exodus of one Peso coins from the Philippines to United States began. An article about the first transfer appeared in the Manila Times newspaper of December 15, 1906: "Silver pesos amounting to two million are being shipped to the United States today for recoinage. The Manila Times reports that this is the first consignment to be sent abroad. The money, packed securely in wooden boxes, was taken from the Insular Treasury to the Transport Logan under heavy guard. After the silver pesos are recoined, they will be brought back to the Islands on the next trip of the Logan" (Basso, 1974, p. 50).
So, between the low mintage, the treasury hold-back, and the re-coining, we can infer that just about all of the 1906-S Pesos were melted down and "those that survive today somehow made their way into circulation and numismatic collections. The lack of Gem examples of this date confirms this theory” (Guth, n.d.).
🔎
This coin is richly toned in gorgeous light to medium brown patina. It has a subtle tinge of lavender, blue, and orange coloring in some areas of the obverse when viewed at certain angles to the light. The reverse shows a bit more luster with toning that deepens to darker areas on the right side, along with some reeding marks. A few fine pin scratches on the obverse field account for the grade, but even with these minor shortcomings, I think this coin is a nice example of this well-known rarity.
⚙️ Coin Specifications and Information
Composition: Silver
Fineness: 0.9000
Weight: 26.9500g
ASW: 0.7800oz
Diameter: 38mm
Edge: Reeded
Alignment: ⬆️ ⬇️
Mintage: 201,000
KM# 168
📆 This Year in Philippine History
On August 6, 1906, the system of weights and measures were reformed and legalized in terms of the metric system, when the Philippine Commission Act No. 1519 was enacted.
A careful study of the matter by government experts in the Bureau of Science, found that the standard weight and capacity had become deplorably falsified and irregular. It was commonly said that the only reliable unit of measure was a "Standard Oil Can". The debasement and frauds practised fell heaviest upon the poorest purchasers and consumers. Thus, it was decided to standardize the native measures and adopt the international metric system.
The "kaban" was made exactly equal 75 liters. A "ganta" was made 3 liters. "Chupa" was made 375 thousandths of a liter.
Act No. 1519 took effect Janaury 1, 1907.
____________________
📖 Information sources:
Shafer, N. (1961). United States Territorial Coinage for the Philippine Islands. Whitman Publishing Company.
Basso, Aldo P. (1975). Coins, Medals and Tokens of the Philippines 1728-1974 (2nd ed.). Bookman Printing House.
Guth, Ron. PCGS Coin Facts, 1906-S Peso (Regular Strike). Retrieved 19:15, September 19, 2021, from https://www.pcgs.com/coinfacts/coin/1906-s-peso/90386
Wikipedia contributors. (2020, June 2). Sheldon coin grading scale. In Wikipedia, The Free Encyclopedia. Retrieved 21:30, September 5, 2021, from https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Sheldon_coin_grading_scale&oldid=960391269
NGC, World Coin Price Guide, Philippines Coin Price Guide (Powered by NumisMaster), Retrieved 21:27, September 5, 2021, from https://www.ngccoin.com/price-guide/world/philippines-peso-km-172-1907-1912-cuid-1112357-duid-1518523
Numista Coin Catalog. Coins from Philippines. Retrieved 21:24, September 5, 2021, from https://en.numista.com/catalogue/pieces4349.html
Today in Philippine History, August 6, 1906, the system of weights and measures were reformed. Retrieved 9:37, August 12, 2021, https://kahimyang.com/kauswagan/articles/1505/today-in-philippine-history-august-6-1906-the-system-of-weights-and-measures-were-reformed
|
| Slot: |
American Territory |
| Origin/Country: |
United States |
| Design Description: |
PHILIPPINES UNDER U.S. SOVEREIGNTY |
| Item Description: |
PESO 1906 USA-PHIL |
| Grade: |
NGC PF 64 |
| Research: |
View Coin |
Owner Comments
It seems clear from the previous year’s sales that interest in Philippine proof coins had tapered off. Consequently, only 500 were authorized to be minted by Philippine Governor-General Henry Ide. The reason was because Ide "felt that a small demand would be made by collectors for these coins and believed that 500 sets would satisfy this demand." writes Neil Shafer in his book, "United States Territorial Coinage for the Philippine Islands." Ide’s estimate was correct because coins were still available for sale way into the early 1930's (Shafer, 1961).
🔎
As one of my favorites in the set, I thoroughly enjoy looking at this coin’s sharply detailed design elements and its reflective fields underneath. Mottled shades of brown and lime-green toning accent the surfaces of this attractive near-Gem proof specimen. Needless to say, this coin has attractive overall quality with very pleasing eye appeal.
⚙️ Coin Specifications and Information
Composition: Silver
Fineness: 0.9000
Weight: 26.9500g
ASW: 0.7800oz
Diameter: 38mm
Edge: Reeded
Alignment: ⬆️ ⬇️
Mintage: 500
KM#168
📆 This Year in Philippine History
On January 1, 1906, by virtue of Philippine Commission Act No. 1123 of April 1904, the official language of the Philippines became English. It was used in court proceedings and no person was eligible for government service who did not know the language.
____________________
📖 Information sources:
Shafer, N. (1961). United States Territorial Coinage for the Philippine Islands. Whitman Publishing Company.
Wikipedia contributors. (2020, June 2). Sheldon coin grading scale. In Wikipedia, The Free Encyclopedia. Retrieved 21:30, September 5, 2021, from https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Sheldon_coin_grading_scale&oldid=960391269
NGC, World Coin Price Guide, Philippines Coin Price Guide (Powered by NumisMaster), Retrieved 21:27, September 5, 2021, from https://www.ngccoin.com/price-guide/world/philippines-peso-km-168-1903-1906-cuid-1085604-duid-1519450
Numista Coin Catalog. Coins from Philippines. Retrieved 21:24, September 5, 2021, from https://en.numista.com/catalogue/pieces4349.html
Today in Philippine History, January 1, 1906, English became official language of the Philippines. Retrieved 14:58, September 10, 2021, from https://kahimyang.com/kauswagan/articles/1411/today-in-philippine-history-january-1-1906-english-became-official-language-of-the-philippines
|
| Slot: |
American Territory |
| Origin/Country: |
United States |
| Design Description: |
PHILIPPINES UNDER U.S. SOVEREIGNTY |
| Item Description: |
PESO 1907 S USA-PHIL |
| Grade: |
NGC MS 63 |
| Research: |
View Coin |
Owner Comments
1907 is the first year of the smaller-sized Peso in this series.
The silver crisis of 1905 which affected the Philippine Peso culminated in November 1906 as the Peso coin’s bullion value exceeded its money value by as much as 13% (Shafer, 1961). As a final solution to this dilemma, Congress passed a law in December 1906 to re-coin all 1903-1906 Peso coins into pieces which contained less silver.
The Congressional Act of December 6, 1906 defined a new standard for the Peso’s silver content, reducing it from 90% to 80% (the silver weight went from 416 grains to 308.64 grains). Additionally, the coin’s size was also reduced from 38 mm to 35 mm.
The Philadelphia mint struck trial pieces of various fine metal weights (Shafer, 1961). Two of these trial pieces survive today—one struck on a planchet of the same diameter and fineness used for the Peso coins of 1903 to 1906, and the other struck on the new 35 mm planchet with reduced fineness (Guth, n.d.).
Neil Shafer (1961) found that “there was much discussion regarding such a change—from its probable effects upon the Filipino people to the extra wear and tear on mint machinery from the harder planchets with more alloy” (pg 15).
Finally, by April 1907, the new coinage was approved and production began at the San Francisco mint (Shafer, 1961). A month later, on May 4, the first consignment of the new coins arrived in Manila and the operation of placing the new money in circulation was commenced immediately (Kemmerer, 1912, p. 252).
To ensure a smooth and expedient circulation of the new coins, an information campaign was implemented. It included an explanatory circular which was disseminated to the public throughout the Islands. It was even translated into Spanish, Chinese, and eleven native dialects. "In addition, all provincial treasuries were directed to carry on a general campaign of education in order that. . . [the people] might become thoroughly acquainted with the new currency and the reasons for the change in its weight and fineness (Kemmerer, 1912, p. 252).
Initially, just like the 1903 Peso coin's introduction, this newly re-sized Peso coin faced some discrimination. According to the Philippine Treasurer Report of 1907, "from some sections reports were received that Chinese traders would not receive the new coins in business transactions except at a discount varying from 20 to 40 per cent, and that they were offering as high 5 per cent premium in the new coin for the old" (Report, 1907, p. 68).
But in the end, "the educational campaign carried on by the Government and by the banks, coupled with the fact that the new silver coins were readily interchangeable at government treasuries throughout the Islands for silver certificates and nickel and copper coins, with which the people were familiar, soon broke down all discrimination" (Kemmerer, 1912, p. 253).
By October 15, 1907, the new coin was "accepted without question in every part of the Islands, and no reports or complaints have been received for the past two months as to discounting, and so far as can be ascertained no premium is now paid for the old coin." In fact, the report continues, "the demand for new coin for exchange purposes has so far exceeded the supply that it became necessary to withdraw nearly half a million of the new pesos from banks to meet requisitions therefor from the provinces" (Report, 1907, p. 69).
🔎
This coin has reflective surfaces and silver centers with delicate golden borders that accent its frosty luster. Small contact marks are present, commensurate with the grade, but overall, this coin is rather attractive.
As I mentioned in one of my comments in this set, I didn't like toned coins. That was until I acquired this one. Its nice peripheral toning made me accept toning a one of the qualities that define a coin.
⚙️ Coin Specifications and Information
Composition: Silver
Fineness: 0.8000
Weight: 20.0000g
ASW: 0.5144oz
Diameter: 35mm
Edge: Reeded
Alignment: ⬆️ ⬇️
Mintage: 10,276,000
KM# 172
📆 This Year in Philippine History
On October 16, 1907, The Philippine Football Federation (PFF) was established as the Philippine Amateur Football Association (PAFA). The PFF is the governing body of association football in the Philippines and is one of the oldest national football associations in Asia. It is also among the founding members of the Asian Football Confederation (AFC). The PAFA reorganized as the Philippine Football Association (PFA), and later as the Philippine Football Federation.
In 1917, the first Spanish and Filipino footballer to play for a European club, Paulino Alcántara Riestra, was selected by the Philippines to represent the country at the Far Eastern Championship Games in Tokyo. He helped them defeat Japan 15–2, which remains the largest win in Philippine international football history.
In 1961, stakeholders of Philippine football officially organized themselves to establish the Philippine Football Association (PFA) which was later reorganized as the Philippine Football Federation in 1982.
____________________
📖 Information sources:
Shafer, N. (1961). United States Territorial Coinage for the Philippine Islands. Whitman Publishing Company.
Guth, Ron. PCGS Coin Facts, 1907 Peso (Proof). Retrieved 18:50, September 19, 2021, from https://www.pcgs.com/coinfacts/coin/1907-peso/374990
Kemmerer, E. W. (1912). The Recent Rise in the Price of Silver and Some of Its Monetary Consequences. The Quarterly Journal of Economics, 26(2), 215–274. https://doi.org/10.2307/1884764
Available under a Creative Commons Attribution 3.0 license. For more information see https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/3.0/
Report of the Treasurer of the Philippine Islands, 1907, pp. 68-69. Retrieved 20:16, November 20, 2021, from https://quod.lib.umich.edu/p/philamer/acx1716.1907.003/79
Wikipedia contributors. (2020, June 2). Sheldon coin grading scale. In Wikipedia, The Free Encyclopedia. Retrieved 21:30, September 5, 2021, from https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Sheldon_coin_grading_scale&oldid=960391269
NGC, World Coin Price Guide, Philippines Coin Price Guide (Powered by NumisMaster), Retrieved 21:27, September 5, 2021, from https://www.ngccoin.com/price-guide/world/philippines-peso-km-172-1907-1912-cuid-1112357-duid-1518523
Numista Coin Catalog. Coins from Philippines. Retrieved 21:24, September 5, 2021, from https://en.numista.com/catalogue/pieces4349.html
Wikipedia contributors. (2021, October 12). Philippine Football Federation. In Wikipedia, The Free Encyclopedia. Retrieved 16:54, October 14, 2021, from https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Philippine_Football_Federation&oldid=1049524128
|
| Slot: |
American Territory |
| Origin/Country: |
United States |
| Design Description: |
PHILIPPINES UNDER U.S. SOVEREIGNTY |
| Item Description: |
PESO 1908 S USA-PHIL |
| Grade: |
PCGS MS 63 |
| Research: |
View Coin |
Owner Comments
This is the highest minted coin in the series, and thus quite common.
By 1908, the reduced-sized Peso was accepted without question in every part of the archipelago. The next major task for the Insular treasury was the withdrawal from circulation of the large-sized Peso. This operation didn’t get underway until late ‘07 and well into ‘08 and beyond due to two reasons: First, there weren’t enough of the new Peso coins available in mid-1907 (only P5,275,000 had been received by the treasurer from the San Fransisco mint according to the Finance Secretary’s report). Second, “there was considerable opposition on the part of the people in the provinces to accepting the new coins,” causing the operation to be delayed by another six months (Report, 1908, p. 578).
🔎
This coin has a delicate tan-gold color accenting its satiny surface. Minimally marked for the grade, tinges of darker toning cling to the coin's edges, legends, and devices but only heighten the impact of its beauty. This used to be my least favorite coin in the set, but has since then been elevated to a well-liked status because of its character, cartwheel luster, and clean surface. And even though the general quality is average, overall, the coin is rather attractive.
⚙️ Coin Specifications and Information
Composition: Silver
Fineness: 0.8000
Weight: 20.0000g
ASW: 0.5144oz
Diameter: 35mm
Edge: Reeded
Alignment: ⬆️ ⬇️
Mintage: 20,955,000
KM# 172
📆 This Year in Philippine History
On June 18, 1908, the Philippine Legislature enacted a law for the establishment of the University of the Philippines. Preliminary organization of this institution was begun during the latter part of the same year.
The American occupation of the Philippines was followed rapidly by the establishment of a large number of elementary schools and at least one high school in every province. It was soon felt that the nation ought to have a university as the capstone of this public-school system to produce leaders for the nation and prepare men for service in professional and technical fields.
Moreover, in order to retain the students in the high schools, assurance had to be given that the Government intended to provide advanced and professional courses in English. Otherwise they preferred to attend the Spanish schools.
The College of Medicine was, chronologically considered, the first unit of the University. It was originally known as the Philippine Medical School created by a special act on December 1, 1905, and opened to students for purposes of instruction on June 10, 1907. It became a university college on the 8th of December, 1910. The Schools of Pharmacy and Dentistry were some time later added to the College of Medicine but as yet have not been made separate colleges.
The School of Fine Arts was authorized by the Legislature when the University was established.
The College of Agriculture was established at Los Banos in 1909. It has since become one of the important features of the University system.
The College of Veterinary Science was opened in Manila about the middle of the year 1910 and, in 1920, its location was moved to Los Banos, Laguna, in proximity to the College of Agriculture. Also at this location and on lands belonging to the Bureau of Forestry and adjoining the Colleges of Agriculture and Veterinary Science, the School of Forestry was established in 1916.
The College of Engineering began operations in June, 1910.
The College of Law was founded in 1911.
The Conservatory of Music was established in 1916.
A Junior College of Liberal Arts in 1918 was established at Cebu and in 1922, it became the Junior College of the University.
The School of Education which was organized as a department of the College of Liberal Arts in 1913, became the College of Education in 1918.
Today, the university system is comprised of seven constituent universities located in 12 campuses throughout the Philippine archipelago. These constituent universities nurture the intellectual and cultural growth of the Filipino through 246 undergraduate and 362 graduate programs.
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📖 Information sources:
Report of the Treasurer of the Philippine Islands, 1907, p. 578, Retrieved 21:10, November 20, 2021, from https://quod.lib.umich.edu/p/philamer/acx1716.1908.002/
Wikipedia contributors. (2020, June 2). Sheldon coin grading scale. In Wikipedia, The Free Encyclopedia. Retrieved 21:30, September 5, 2021, from https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Sheldon_coin_grading_scale&oldid=960391269
NGC, World Coin Price Guide, Philippines Coin Price Guide (Powered by NumisMaster), Retrieved 21:27, September 5, 2021, from https://www.ngccoin.com/price-guide/world/philippines-peso-km-172-1907-1912-cuid-1112357-duid-1518523
Numista Coin Catalog. Coins from Philippines. Retrieved 21:24, September 5, 2021, from https://en.numista.com/catalogue/pieces4349.html
Today in Philippine History, June 18, 1908, the University of the Philippines was established. Retrieved 16:35, August 14, 2021, https://kahimyang.com/kauswagan/articles/1188/today-in-philippine-history-june-18-1908-the-university-of-the-philippines-was-established
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| Slot: |
American Territory |
| Origin/Country: |
United States |
| Design Description: |
PHILIPPINES UNDER U.S. SOVEREIGNTY |
| Item Description: |
PESO 1908 USA-PHIL |
| Grade: |
PCGS PF 63 |
| Research: |
View Coin |
Owner Comments
This is the final proof Peso coin in the series and the only reduced-sized Peso proof coin (not counting the ultra-rare 1907 proof Peso coin). Like in 1906, 500 of these coins “were also made on a stand-by basis to meet whatever orders numismatists might place for them,” and similar the 1906 proofs, these were also in stock well into the 1930's (Shafer, 1961, p. 33). Proof sets were not made in 1907 because “it was felt more convenient to strike the sets the next year as demand for circulating coins was heavy in 1907” (Shafer, p. 33).
🔎
Nice and sharply struck, this coin is bright and mostly white, with a hint of watery toning on each side. Fields are reflective and devices are fully detailed. It has the usual cobwebby hairlines and surface contacts that you would find in a coin of this grade, plus a couple of minuscule spots that have little impact on its eye appeal and overall attractiveness.
⚙️ Coin Specifications and Information
Composition: Silver
Fineness: 0.8000
Weight: 20.0000g
ASW: 0.5144oz
Diameter: 35mm
Edge: Reeded
Alignment: ⬆️ ⬇️
Mintage: 500
KM# 172
📆 This Year in Philippine History
In 1908, the Philippines Free Press was founded. It is a weekly English language news magazine, and is the Philippines' oldest weekly English language periodical currently still in print. The Philippines Free Press is known for being one of the few publications that dared to criticize the administration of Ferdinand Marcos in the years before the declaration of Martial Law, and for being one of the first publications shuttered once Martial Law was put into effect.
____________________
📖 Information sources:
Shafer, N. (1961). United States Territorial Coinage for the Philippine Islands. Whitman Publishing Company.
Wikipedia contributors. (2020, June 2). Sheldon coin grading scale. In Wikipedia, The Free Encyclopedia. Retrieved 21:30, September 5, 2021, from https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Sheldon_coin_grading_scale&oldid=960391269
NGC, World Coin Price Guide, Philippines Coin Price Guide (Powered by NumisMaster), Retrieved 21:27, September 5, 2021, from https://www.ngccoin.com/price-guide/world/philippines-peso-km-172-1907-1912-cuid-1112357-duid-1518523
Numista Coin Catalog. Coins from Philippines. Retrieved 21:24, September 5, 2021, from https://en.numista.com/catalogue/pieces4349.html
Wikipedia contributors. (2021, August 5). Philippines Free Press. In Wikipedia, The Free Encyclopedia. Retrieved 11:11, September 24, 2021, from https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Philippines_Free_Press&oldid=1037236559
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