5 Centavos Josefa Appraisal

Mexico 5 Centavos 'Josefa' Coin (Circulated)

This is a Mexican circular coin, specifically a 5 Centavos denomination featuring the profile of Josefa Ortiz de Dominguez, a heroine of the Mexican War of Independence. The piece is crafted from a copper-nickel or brass alloy, exhibiting a heavily oxidized and darkened silvery-grey patina with significant surface debris and spotting. The obverse shown displays the bust of 'La Corregidora' facing right, wearing a traditional period high-collared dress. To the left of the profile is the distinct 'Mo' mint mark, signifying the Mexico City Mint. The central image is encircled by an olive and oak wreath, tied at the bottom with a ribbon. The edge of the coin features a decorative denticulated border. This specific design was widely produced from the early 1940s through the 1950s. The condition is heavily circulated, showing substantial wear to the high points of the hair and facial features, along with localized pitting and dark toning that obscures some of the finer metallurgical luster. There are no signs of modern cleaning, which preserves the original, albeit aged, surface history. The metal shows significant environmental exposure consistent with long-term storage or ground contact.