Peru Silver 1 Sol Coin Form Button or Jewelry Component
Jewelry/Button Component (Numismatic-based Decorative Object) · Casa de Moneda de Lima (Lima Mint), Peru. The mint has a heritage dating back to the 16th century and is renowned for high-quality silver coinage.
Pattern: Un Sol de Oro Coinage Design (National Liberty Figure / Coat of Arms)
Type
Jewelry/Button Component (Numismatic-based Decorative Object)
Maker
Casa de Moneda de Lima (Lima Mint), Peru. The mint has a heritage dating back to the 16th century and is renowned for high-quality silver coinage.
Material
900 Fine Silver (90% silver, 10% copper). This is the standard silver purity for Peruvian coinage of the late 19th and early 20th centuries.
Dimensions
Diameter approximately 37mm for a full 1 Sol coin. Weight: roughly 25 grams for an uncirculated coin, though altered versions may vary.
Description
A classic Peruvian 900 silver Sol coin that has been repurposed into a decorative functional object. The coin features the iconic imagery of seated Liberty, symbolizing the young republic's independence. Its high silver content and bold, raised lettering make it a favorite for 'concho' style silver work.
Key Features
Visible 'LIBERTAD' inscription, dentalled border, reeded edge typical of currency, and the specific '9/10 FINO' silver purity mark.
Material & Composition
900 Fine Silver (90% silver, 10% copper). This is the standard silver purity for Peruvian coinage of the late 19th and early 20th centuries.
Finish & Decoration
Struck numismatic finish with a reeded edge. The visible face features the word 'LIBERTAD' on the shield held by the seated Liberty figure, surrounded by 'FIRME Y FELIZ POR LA UNION'.
Hallmarks & Stamps
The coin features '9/10 FINO' (indicating 90% purity), the mint mark 'LIMA', and the assayer initials (likely BF or FG depending on the specific year).
Construction Details
Die-struck at a national mint. This specific piece appears to have been physically altered (centrally pierced) to be used as a button, concho, or jewelry element.
Functional Features
Centrally drilled hole for threaded attachment or mounting as a decorative fastener on leather goods or clothing.
Handle & Grip Details
N/A - This is a flat, circular numismatic object with no handles.
Craftsmanship Details
High-quality industrial mint strike. The precision of the 'dentils' (the tooth-like pattern around the edge) indicates a genuine government-minted product.
Authentication Indicators
Correct font style for Lima Mint, presence of natural silver oxidation (tarnish) in crevices, and the distinctive reeded edge consistent with genuine struck coinage.
Origin & Manufacturing
Lima, Peru. Manufactured at the National Mint using mechanical coin presses and hand-cut steel dies.
Era & Period
Modern/Republican Peru (Late 19th to early 20th Century). Standard Liberty design era reflecting neoclassical influences.
Age Estimate
Circa 1863-1935. Based on the 9/10 Fino silver standard and the Seated Liberty design.
Cultural Significance
Represents the transition of national currency into folk art and personal adornment, reflecting the abundance of silver in Peruvian culture.
Condition Notes
Fair. The item shows significant circulation wear, softening of the high points of the relief, and has been permanently altered by a central drill hole which removes it from numismatic 'collector coin' status to 'jewelry/scrap silver' status.
Value Estimate
$25 - $45 USD. Value is tied primarily to its silver bullion weight (approx 0.72 troy oz of pure silver) plus a small premium for its decorative use.
Care & Maintenance
Mild hand polish with a silver cloth. Avoid chemical dips which can strip the natural patina and make the coin look unnaturally white.
Similar Pieces
American Morgan Dollars or Mexican 8 Reales coins modified into buttons or belt buckles.
Interesting Facts
The Peruvian Sol was a major trade coin in South America. Repurposing coins into clothing buttons was a common practice among gauchos and silver artisans in the Andes.