Philippines 5-Peso 'Katmon' Flora and Fauna Series Coin (2017-Present)
Coin/Bullion · Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (Central Bank of the Philippines). The BSP is the sole issuer of Philippine currency, known for its modern 'New Generation Currency' series produced in its Security Plant Complex in Quezon City.
Pattern: New Generation Currency (NGC) Coin Series; 'Katmon' Floral Motif.
Type
Coin/Bullion
Maker
Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (Central Bank of the Philippines). The BSP is the sole issuer of Philippine currency, known for its modern 'New Generation Currency' series produced in its Security Plant Complex in Quezon City.
Material
Nickel-plated Steel. Note: This item is not solid silver. It is a base metal coin with a silver-colored nickel plating over a steel core, designed for durability in circulation.
Dimensions
Diameter: 25.0 mm; Thickness: 2.20 mm; Weight: 7.4 grams. It is noticeably larger and heavier than the Philippine 1-Peso coin.
Description
A contemporary Philippine 5-Peso coin featuring the endemic Katmon flower. Part of the New Generation Currency series, this coin moved away from the pale gold (nickel-brass) color of previous 5-Peso coins in favor of a silvery nickel-plated steel aesthetic. It features a clean, minimalist layout with a vertical dividing line that separates the botanical illustration from the central bank's official seal.
Key Features
The 'KATMON' text at the base, the micro-engraved BSP logo, and the magnetic properties due to its steel core (a primary diagnostic for distinguishing it from older non-magnetic cupro-nickel coins).
Material & Composition
Nickel-plated Steel. Note: This item is not solid silver. It is a base metal coin with a silver-colored nickel plating over a steel core, designed for durability in circulation.
Finish & Decoration
Satin silver-colored finish with relief strikes. The obverse features the 'Katmon' (Dillenia philippinensis) flower, a vertical dividing line, and the BSP logo. The reverse (not fully visible but implied) typically features Andres Bonifacio and the denomination.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Not hallmarked as silver. It contains the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas seal (a stylized Philippine Eagle), the micro-lettering 'Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas', and the inscription 'KATMON' at the bottom.
Construction Details
Die-struck/Minted. The coin is manufactured using high-pressure industrial coin presses. It features a plain edge (smooth) rather than a reeded edge to distinguish it from other denominations.
Functional Features
Legal tender currency. It includes tactile and visual security features, such as micro-printed text within the BSP logo to deter counterfeiting.
Handle & Grip Details
N/A (Numismatic item); smooth circumference for ease of handling in automated coin counters and vending machines.
Craftsmanship Details
Industrial minting of high quality; features sharp relief, consistent frosting on the design elements, and precise micro-lettering characteristic of modern government mints.
Authentication Indicators
Alignment of the Katmon petals, clarity of the micro-text in the logo, and the distinct 'silvery' luster of nickel plating on steel. Direct magnetic testing would confirm the steel core.
Origin & Manufacturing
Philippines; minted by the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) Security Plant Complex.
Era & Period
Contemporary/Modern Era (2017–Present). Released as part of the currency overhaul to increase wear-resistance and security.
Age Estimate
Circa 2017-2023. This specific design was first introduced in December 2017.
Cultural Significance
The inclusion of the Katmon flower represents the Philippines' commitment to celebrating its unique biodiversity. It is a staple of daily commerce in the Philippine economy.
Condition Notes
Very Good to Excellent (Circulated). Shows minor surface contact marks and light scratching consistent with pocket wear; no significant oxidation or edge nicks visible.
Value Estimate
Face Value: 5 Philippine Pesos (approx. $0.09 USD). While it has no precious metal value, 'uncirculated' specimens may hold slight premium value for world coin collectors.
Care & Maintenance
For circulated coins, no special cleaning is recommended as it can damage numismatic value. Store in a dry environment to prevent 'rust' spots if the nickel plating is ever breached to the steel core.
Similar Pieces
Old 5-Peso (Pale Gold/Nickel-brass), 1-Peso NGC (smaller, featuring Jose Rizal), and the 10-Peso NGC (larger, featuring Apolinario Mabini).
Interesting Facts
When first released, this coin was criticized by the public for being too similar in color and size to the 1-Peso coin, leading the BSP to eventually release a 'New Generation' enhanced version with a nonagon (9-sided) shape to prevent confusion.