1912 Guatemala Appraisal

Guatemalan Coin (Reverse) - 1912

The item is a silver-toned coin, specifically the reverse side of a Guatemalan peso or similar denomination, likely struck from an alloy of silver, given its coloration and the period it represents. The central motif is the national coat of arms of Guatemala, featuring a scroll with the inscription "LIBERTAD / 15 DE / SEPTIEMBRE / DE 1821" (Liberty / September 15th / 1821), which commemorates the date of Central American independence from Spain. This scroll is flanked by two crossed rifles with bayonets, symbolizing the willingness to defend the nation's freedom. Above the scroll, a quetzal, the national bird of Guatemala, is perched, a symbol of liberty. Below the scroll and rifles, there are crossed swords, representing honor or military power, and a wreath of laurel branches, symbolizing victory and peace, tied at the bottom. The coin features a reeded edge, common for currency of this type and era, designed to prevent clipping. The visible date at the bottom is "1912". The surface exhibits a moderate level of wear consistent with circulation, with some loss of fine detail, particularly on the higher points of the design and the quetzal bird. There is a noticeable patina, typical of aged silver or silver alloy, which adds character but also slightly obscures some of the intricate details in the recessed areas. No significant damage such as deep scratches, bends, or repairs are immediately apparent from the image, suggesting it has been preserved reasonably well for its age. The overall craftsmanship appears to be of standard mint quality for early 20th-century coinage, with well-defined design elements, despite the wear. This coin is undoubtedly from the early 20th century, specifically dating to 1912.