South Korean 10 Won Coin (Not Silver)
Coin/Bullion · Bank of Korea / Korea Minting and Security Printing Corporation (KOMSCO)
Pattern: Standard Circulation Coinage featuring Dabotap Pagoda
Type
Coin/Bullion
Maker
Bank of Korea / Korea Minting and Security Printing Corporation (KOMSCO)
Material
Copper-plated zinc or brass-plated aluminum/copper depending on the specific issuance year; contains no precious silver metal.
Dimensions
Standard small denomination coin size, approximately 18 mm to 22 mm in diameter depending on the exact year of issue.
Description
This item is a standard South Korean circulating coin, specifically a 10 Won denomination featuring the iconic Dabotap Pagoda from Bulguksa temple. Although held in the hand for inspection, numismatic and precious metal analysis confirms it is base metal currency rather than a piece of antique silver hollowware or flatware.
Key Features
Depiction of the Dabotap Pagoda, Hangul lettering denoting the Bank of Korea and the value of 10 Won.
Material & Composition
Copper-plated zinc or brass-plated aluminum/copper depending on the specific issuance year; contains no precious silver metal.
Finish & Decoration
Standard circulation strike with a raised motif of the Dabotap Pagoda on the observe/reverse and Korean text indicating denomination and issuing bank.
Hallmarks & Stamps
No silver hallmarks or assay stamps; features standard national currency text and numerical denomination.
Construction Details
Machine-minted via mass production industrial coin stamping presses.
Functional Features
Designed as legal tender currency for circulation in South Korea.
Handle & Grip Details
Smooth or reeded edge depending on the specific series, with no special handles or grips.
Craftsmanship Details
High-volume industrial die-struck mass manufacturing standard for modern circulating coinage.
Authentication Indicators
Standard currency design elements matching official South Korean coinage specifications.
Origin & Manufacturing
South Korea, manufactured by the national mint.
Era & Period
Modern Period (Late 20th to Early 21st Century)
Age Estimate
Late 20th century to modern era, circa 1970 to present.
Cultural Significance
Represents South Korea's post-war economic development and cultural heritage through everyday numismatic circulation.
Condition Notes
Circulated condition with moderate surface wear, oxidation, and tarnish typical of base metal alloys exposed to handling over time.
Value Estimate
Face value or minimal numismatic value (typically under $1 USD unless an extremely rare key date uncirculated specimen).
Care & Maintenance
Requires no special silver care as it is base metal; standard coin storage holders are sufficient if collected for numismatic value.
Similar Pieces
Other low-denomination circulation coins from Asian central banks.
Interesting Facts
The Dabotap Pagoda featured on the coin is a national treasure of South Korea and originally appeared on the 10-won coin starting in 1966.