Coin bearing markings of a 1975 Guatemalan Quetzal denomination

This item is a circular metal coin that exhibits features consistent with twentieth-century Guatemalan currency. One side of the coin is visible, displaying a raised relief of the Guatemalan coat of arms, which includes a quetzal bird perched on a scroll, crossed rifles, and laurel branches. The text on the scroll reads 'LIBERTAD 15 DE SETIEMBRE DE 1821'. Encircling the central emblem is the inscription 'REPUBLICA DE GUATEMALA' and the date '1975'. The coin appears to be made of a silver-toned metal, possibly a copper-nickel alloy or silver-plated material, though the exact composition cannot be determined without metallurgical testing. The rim is decorated with a beaded border. Regarding its condition, the coin shows signs of circulation wear, including surface abrasions, small scratches, and minor darkening or oxidation consistent with age and handling. The edges appear somewhat worn, and there are small nicks visible along the rim. While the design is consistent with official mintages from that era, this identification remains a hypothesis as numismatic items require physical inspection to check weight, diameter, and edge reeding to distinguish them from contemporary counterfeits or replicas.

Based on the image provided, I have examined this coin which bears markings consistent with a 1975 Guatemalan 1 Quetzal piece. The imagery, including the coat of arms and the date 1975, aligns with the Cupro-Nickel mintage produced during that era. However, from a photograph, I cannot verify the metallurgical composition, weight, or precise diameter, all of which are necessary to distinguish an official mint issue from a period replica or contemporary counterfeit. I also cannot examine the edge reeding, which is a key diagnostic feature. The item displays visible signs of circulation, including surface abrasions, minor oxidation, and softened details on the laurel branches and beaded border. These condition factors significantly influence the valuation. For a coin of this type, the collector market typically seeks pieces in uncirculated or 'mint' state; circulated examples such as this one are generally valued close to their face value or as minor numismatic curiosities. If this item were confirmed as a high-grade specimen, the value could be slightly higher, but in its observed condition, it occupies the lower end of the retail spectrum. Conversely, if it were found to be a modern base-metal replica, it would have negligible commercial value beyond its use as a novelty. To confirm the piece's status, a physical inspection by a numismatist involving a precision scale and a caliper is required. The current estimate assumes the item is an official government mintage of the Republic of Guatemala. The market for mid-century Central American base-metal coinage remains stable but is characterized by high supply for circulated denominations, keeping individual values modest.