1974 Republic of Haiti 25 Gourdes 'Haiti Independence' Silver Coin
Coin/Bullion · The Franklin Mint (for the Republic of Haiti)
Pattern: Republic of Haiti Independence Series, Commemorative Coinage
Type
Coin/Bullion
Maker
The Franklin Mint (for the Republic of Haiti)
Material
0.925 Sterling Silver; weighs approximately 25.4-25.9 grams (ASW ~0.75-0.77 troy oz)
Dimensions
Diameter: roughly 40mm; Weight: 25.92 grams (standard specification for this issue).
Description
An attractive sterling silver commemorative coin celebrating Haitian independence and revolutionary hero Toussaint Louverture. The piece features a high-relief profile and is part of a series of large-format silver coins produced for international collectors during the silver boom of the 1970s.
Key Features
Portrait of Toussaint Louverture, 1974 date, large crown-sized format, struck in sterling silver rather than coin silver (.900).
Material & Composition
0.925 Sterling Silver; weighs approximately 25.4-25.9 grams (ASW ~0.75-0.77 troy oz)
Finish & Decoration
Specimen or Proof finish; Obverse features the profile of Pierre-Dominique Toussaint Louverture, the leader of the Haitian Revolution. Neoclassical portrait style with peripheral lettering including the date 1974.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Stamped '1974' on obverse; usually stamped with denomination '25 GOURDES' and silver purity '.925' or 'STERLING' on the reverse (not visible in image). Small 'f' mintmark for Franklin Mint usually present.
Construction Details
Precision die-struck on a sterling silver planchet; machine-manufactured in a high-pressure minting press.
Functional Features
Milled/Reeded edge to prevent clipping; legal tender status in Haiti (though intended for collectors).
Handle & Grip Details
None (standard numismatic item).
Craftsmanship Details
Professional mint-quality die striking; features fine detail in the hair and facial structure of the portrait, characteristic of 1970s American private minting.
Authentication Indicators
Die-struck details consistent with Franklin Mint production; correct typography and date placement; visible 'RAV' (engraver) initials below bust.
Origin & Manufacturing
Manufactured in the USA by The Franklin Mint (Pennsylvania) for the Republic of Haiti.
Era & Period
Modern Commemorative (Mid-Century/Late 20th Century).
Age Estimate
Dated 1974.
Cultural Significance
Honors the first successful slave revolt in the Americas and the father of Haitian independence, reflecting national identity and historical pride.
Condition Notes
Good to Very Good; shows significant surface abrasions, handling marks, and loss of original mint luster consistent with being 'junk silver' or handled without protection. Dark toning appearing in recesses.
Value Estimate
$25 - $40 USD, primarily dictated by its silver melt value plus a small premium for the historical subject matter.
Care & Maintenance
Do not clean or polish with abrasives as this destroys numismatic value. Store in an acid-free PVC-free plastic flip or capsule. Handle only by the edges while wearing cotton gloves.
Similar Pieces
1970s Panama 20 Balboas, Bahamian Silver Dollars, and other Franklin Mint international commemoratives; differ by country of issue and weight.
Interesting Facts
The 1970s was the 'Golden Age' of the Franklin Mint, which produced silver commemoratives for dozens of nations that lacked their own sophisticated minting facilities.