Spain 1999 5 Pesetas 'Murcia' Regional Series Commemoratve Coin
Coin (Numismatic/Circulating) · Not applicable; the item is a base-metal alloy meant to mimic a golden appearance for circulation.
Purity: 0.0% (Non-precious metal). This item contains no gold. It is composed of Bronze-Aluminum (Copper 92%, Aluminum 6%, Nickel 2%).
Type
Coin (Numismatic/Circulating)
Purity
0.0% (Non-precious metal). This item contains no gold. It is composed of Bronze-Aluminum (Copper 92%, Aluminum 6%, Nickel 2%).
Gold Type
Not applicable; the item is a base-metal alloy meant to mimic a golden appearance for circulation.
Weight
3.00 grams
Description
A circulating 5 Pesetas coin from Spain's popular Regional Series, specifically honoring the region of Murcia. The obverse features a traditional water wheel (noria), symbolizing the historical irrigation systems of the Segura river. Despite its golden color, it is a utilitarian coin designed for mass circulation prior to the Euro adoption.
Key Features
Features the 'Murcia' regional designation and a depiction of the Noria of Alcantarilla; includes the crowned M mint mark of Madrid.
Color & Finish
Yellowish-bronze/gold-tone appearance with a dull luster and significant surface patina/toning typical of oxidative bronze.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Mint mark 'M' with a crown (Fabrica Nacional de Moneda y Timbre, Madrid). Inscriptions: '5 PTAS', 'MURCIA'. No purity hallmarks present.
Dimensions Estimate
Diameter of 17.50 mm; Thickness of 1.35 mm.
Gemstones & Inlays
None
Clasp & Closure
Reeded edge (milled) finishing common on circulating coinage for grip and security against clipping.
Chain & Links
Not applicable; single struck planchet (D-shape rim profile).
Craftsmanship Details
Machine-struck on a bronze-aluminum planchet; high-speed automated production for national circulation with a focus on durability rather than fine jewelry precision.
Authentication Indicators
Alignment of the 'M' mint mark, specific 'Murcia' font, and the reeded edge are consistent with genuine Spanish Mint production. Lack of 'K' or '750' stamps confirms it is not gold jewelry.
Origin & Maker
Spain; Produced by the Royal Mint of Spain (FNMT) in Madrid.
Era & Period
Contemporary (Late 20th Century). This design is part of the Spanish regional series issued between 1990-2001.
Age Estimate
Dated 1999 (Visible on reverse not shown, or identified by 'Murcia' series sequence).
Cultural Significance
Represented the economic transition of Spain and local pride of the Murcian region; the noria represents the Arabic influence on Spanish agriculture.
Condition Notes
Circulated condition; showing surface scratches, moderate oxidation (dark spots), and flattened high-point details. Grade estimate: Fine to Very Fine (VF).
Value Estimate
Melt Value: Approx $0.02 USD. Numismatic value: $0.10 to $0.50 USD in this condition. This item holds no precious metal value.
Care & Maintenance
Keep in a dry, cool place. Do not clean with harsh chemicals as it will strip the natural patina and reduce numismatic value. Use a PVC-free coin flip for storage.
Similar Items
Other 5 Peseta regional issues such as 'Asturias', 'Castilla-La Mancha', or the standard King Juan Carlos I issues which share the same metal composition.
Interesting Facts
The 5 Peseta coin was affectionately nicknamed 'duro' in Spain. This specific regional series was one of the last Peseta designs issued before Spain switched to the Euro in 2002.