1960 Republic of Venezuela 50 Céntimos Silver Coin
Coin/Bullion · The United States Mint (under contract for the Republic of Venezuela), Philadelphia branch.
Pattern: Standard Circulation Currency, Republic of Venezuela 1960 Series
Type
Coin/Bullion
Maker
The United States Mint (under contract for the Republic of Venezuela), Philadelphia branch.
Material
.835 Silver purity (83.5% silver, 16.5% copper).
Dimensions
Diameter: 18mm; Weight: 2.50 grams (0.0671 troy oz ASW).
Description
An excellent example of a mid-20th-century South American silver circulation coin. The piece displays the Coat of Arms of Venezuela prominently, featuring the 'Caballo Frenado' (running horse) facing left, which was standard before the 2006 redesign. It possesses a lustrous surface indicative of its high silver content.
Key Features
The '1960' date is a high-issue year; the .835 fineness is characteristic of Latin American silver standards adapted from European systems.
Material & Composition
.835 Silver purity (83.5% silver, 16.5% copper).
Finish & Decoration
Business strike with a reeded edge; Reverse features the National Coat of Arms of Venezuela with a sheaf of wheat, weapons/flags, and a running horse; Obverse (reverse of image) features Simón Bolívar.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Inscribed 'REPUBLICA DE VENEZUELA' and '50 CENTIMOS 1960'. No letter mint mark (indicating Philadelphia production).
Construction Details
Machine-struck on a planchet at the U.S. Mint; uniform die alignment and consistent striking pressure.
Functional Features
Serrate/reeded edges to prevent 'shaving' or 'clipping' of the silver content.
Handle & Grip Details
Not applicable (pocket currency).
Craftsmanship Details
Precision-die strike with clear definition in the crest and fine detail in the lettering; consistent rim thickness and centered design.
Authentication Indicators
Correct font serif style for the Philadelphia strike; accurate depiction of the seven stars and wheat sheaf; weight and diameter appear consistent with international minting standards.
Origin & Manufacturing
Manufactured in Philadelphia, USA for the government of Venezuela, South America.
Era & Period
Mid-Century Modern Numismatic / Cold War Era (1945-1970).
Age Estimate
Dated 1960; exactly 64 years old at the time of this assessment.
Cultural Significance
Represents the economic stability of Venezuela during the mid-20th century when the Bolivar was one of the strongest currencies in the region, backed by silver and oil wealth.
Condition Notes
Very Good to Fine (grade); shows slight localized tarnish (toning) on the lower rim, minor surface abrasions consistent with light circulation or storage in a PVC flip.
Value Estimate
$2 - $6 USD (primarily based on silver melt value and base numismatic interest for a common date).
Care & Maintenance
Store in PVC-free coin flips (non-plasticized Mylar) to prevent copper corrosion; do not clean or polish as this destroys numismatic value.
Similar Pieces
1960 Venezuelan 25 Centimos (smaller) and 1 Bolivar (larger); similar in appearance to French silver Francs of the same era due to shared fineness standards.
Interesting Facts
The 1960 issue was part of a major revitalization of Venezuelan coinage, often struck in the US due to high production capacity requirements and historical trade ties.