Philippine Numismatics Blogs

When I first discovered an Alfonso XIII coin, I was captivated by holding history in my hand. These Spanish colonial coins, including the iconic 1897 Philippine Peso, showcase the king’s youthful portrait, intricate design, and silver craftsmanship. Beyond their artistry, they intrigue collectors for their condition, rarity, and historical significance, offering a tangible connection to Spain’s final years of rule in the Philippines.

José Rizal’s legacy in Philippine numismatics reflects how a nation honors its ideals. From early colonial banknotes to modern coins and medals, his image endures as a symbol of intellect, reform, and national identity.

From their beginnings in China to their role in modern economies, banknotes have evolved alongside history. Philippine Republic banknotes are especially rich in variety, shaped by political transitions and security advancements. Beyond denominations, collectors discover fascinating differences in printers, serial numbers, signatures, BSP seals, commemorative issues, error notes, and specimen banknotes prized by notaphilists.

This article explores the legacy of General Douglas MacArthur as reflected in Philippine numismatics—from the 1947 independence commemoratives to the 1980 centennial coins, the Leyte Landing anniversary issues, and modern medals that honor his pivotal role in the nation’s wartime history.

Identifying cleaned coins is a real challenge—especially when purchasing online. Photos don’t always reveal the subtle signs of cleaning, and it’s hard to tell whether the seller is unaware or simply not disclosing that a coin has been cleaned. Either way, it leaves the buyer guessing.

For over two centuries, Spain’s vast colonial empire—powered by global trade and the wealth of American silver mines—produced a wide array of coinage across its colonial mints. The majority of coins that circulated in the Philippines during the Spanish period were actually minted in Spanish colonial mints

Philippine counterstamped, countermarked, and chopmarked coins are coins that bear additional markings or alterations intentionally added to their surface. These modifications were typically applied for specific purposes—such as validation, reissuance, or authentication—depending on the historical and geographical context.

On March 19, 1861, the Manila Mint (Casa de Moneda) was inaugurated, marking the start of local gold coin production.