Philippine 1 Piso Circulation Coin featuring the Tamaraw
Coin/Bullion · Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (Central Bank of the Philippines) Mint
Pattern: Flora and Fauna Series / Definitive Coinage Series
Type
Coin/Bullion
Maker
Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (Central Bank of the Philippines) Mint
Material
Nickel-brass or copper-nickel-zinc alloy base metal (not precious silver despite surface tone)
Dimensions
Standard diameter approximately 25 mm and standard circulation weight of approximately 6.0 grams
Description
A standard circular base-metal circulation coin from the Philippines featuring a detailed depiction of the native Tamaraw, a small endangered dwarf buffalo endemic to Mindoro island. The piece exhibits characteristic dark environmental toning and circulation wear typical of copper-nickel or nickel-brass alloy coins handled in everyday commerce.
Key Features
Prominent relief engraving of the Tamaraw (Bubalus mindorensis), denomination indicator of 1 Piso, and compact portable coinage format
Material & Composition
Nickel-brass or copper-nickel-zinc alloy base metal (not precious silver despite surface tone)
Finish & Decoration
Standard circulation strike with a reeded or plain edge and raised relief imagery of a Tamaraw (Bubalus mindorensis)
Hallmarks & Stamps
Denomination marking '1 Piso' and species identifier 'Anoa Mindorensis' or 'Tamaraw'
Construction Details
Machine-struck via high-pressure coin dies in a mass-production minting facility
Functional Features
Standard circulating medium of exchange currency featuring a distinct national animal
Handle & Grip Details
Not applicable as this is a standard circulating coin
Craftsmanship Details
Standard mass-produced commercial minting quality with clean die strikes and durable industrial alloy composition
Authentication Indicators
Standard mint weight, correct diameter, authentic die-struck relief, and typical base-metal oxidation consistent with modern Southeast Asian currency
Origin & Manufacturing
Manila, Philippines, produced by the central monetary authority mint
Era & Period
Late 20th to Early 21st Century modern numismatic era
Age Estimate
Late 20th century to modern circulation period (circa 1980s to 2000s)
Cultural Significance
Represents Philippine national identity, biodiversity conservation efforts, and the everyday monetary economy of the nation
Condition Notes
Circulated condition with moderate surface wear, edge dings, and natural dark oxidation or tarnish across the base metal surfaces. Grade is Good to Very Good for circulation wear.
Value Estimate
Face value to low numismatic value (approximately $0.02 to $0.50 USD depending on exact year, series, and preservation state)
Care & Maintenance
Standard numismatic storage in a dry, PVC-free coin flip or capsule; chemical cleaning is strongly discouraged to preserve natural patination
Similar Pieces
Other denominations from the Philippine Flora and Fauna coin series such as the 25 Sentimos and 50 Sentimos coins
Interesting Facts
The Tamaraw featured on the coin is one of the world's most endangered mammals, making this common currency piece an important wildlife conservation awareness tool