Spain 25 Pesetas 1497-1997 'Melilla' Commemorative Coin
Coin/Bullion · Royal Mint of Spain (Fábrica Nacional de Moneda y Timbre - Real Casa de la Moneda), the official mint of the Spanish government located in Madrid.
Pattern: Spanish Regional Commemorative Series (Autonomous Cities); 500th Anniversary of Melilla.
Type
Coin/Bullion
Maker
Royal Mint of Spain (Fábrica Nacional de Moneda y Timbre - Real Casa de la Moneda), the official mint of the Spanish government located in Madrid.
Material
Copper-Nickel (75% Copper, 25% Nickel). This specific circulation-issue coin contains no silver. Proof versions may exist in precious metals, but this is a standard industrial composition.
Dimensions
Diameter: 25.5 mm; Weight: 8.5 grams; Thickness: 2.15 mm. Standard 'moneda de agujero' (holed coin) size for the period.
Description
A distinctive holed circulation coin issued by Spain in 1997. The design commemorates the 500th anniversary of the Spanish presence in Melilla. It features a stylized amphora on the left, referencing the region's ancient maritime trade history, and wavy lines symbolizing its coastal location. The central hole is a signature of 25-peseta coins from this era.
Key Features
Central circular hole; Crowned M mintmark; Amphora iconography; Dual dates (1497-1997).
Material & Composition
Copper-Nickel (75% Copper, 25% Nickel). This specific circulation-issue coin contains no silver. Proof versions may exist in precious metals, but this is a standard industrial composition.
Finish & Decoration
Satin/Circulation finish; Holed (circular center hole). Features an amphora (historical vessel) on the obverse, the denomination 25 PTAS, waves representing the Mediterranean, and the inscription 'MELILLA'.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Mintmark: Crowned 'M' (Real Casa de la Moneda, Madrid). Dates: 1497-1997. Denomination: 25 PTAS.
Construction Details
Machine-struck/Die-struck at high pressure. The center hole was punched during the manufacturing process. Machine-milled edges.
Functional Features
Holed center for tactile identification and ease of handling or stringing. Legal tender in Spain until the introduction of the Euro in 2002.
Handle & Grip Details
Plain circular edge (smooth), common for holed Spanish peseta coins of the 1990s.
Craftsmanship Details
High-quality industrial minting. Precision die-striking ensures crisp lettering even in a base-metal alloy. The integration of the hole without distorting the metal around the rim indicates superior automated punching.
Authentication Indicators
Characteristic typography of the Spanish Mint; correct alignment of the 'M' mintmark; standard weight and diameter for the 1997 issue; sharp relief on the '25' numerals.
Origin & Manufacturing
Madrid, Spain. Manufactured by the FNMT-RCM following centuries of Spanish numismatic tradition.
Era & Period
Modern Era; Late 20th Century Spanish Monarchy (Reign of Juan Carlos I).
Age Estimate
Produced in 1997 to commemorate the quincentenary of Melilla joining the Spanish Crown.
Cultural Significance
Represents Spanish national identity and the historical expansion of the Crown in the 15th century. These coins were ubiquitous in daily Spanish life during the late 90s and are nostalgic items for those who lived through the pre-Euro transition.
Condition Notes
Very Good to Fine (VF-XF). Displays light surface scratching and minor circulation wear. No significant gouges. Evidence of natural oxidation of the copper-nickel alloy.
Value Estimate
Nominal collector value: $0.50 - $2.00 USD. Value is primarily historical/sentimental as millions were minted for circulation.
Care & Maintenance
General numismatic care: avoid abrasive cleaning; store in a PVC-free flip or capsule to prevent 'green slime' (copper corrosion). Do not use silver polish as this is a nickel-based alloy.
Similar Pieces
1995 Castilla y León 25 Ptas; 1994 Canarias 25 Ptas; 1996 La Rioja 25 Ptas. Different images but same holed form factor.
Interesting Facts
This was part of a popular series where the 25 Peseta coin highlighted different Spanish regions. Melilla is one of two Spanish autonomous cities located in North Africa. This was among the last designs issued before Spain transitioned to the Euro.