Cyprus 50 Cents (Nickel-Brass), 1983
Coin (Numismatic/Circulation Currency) · N/A (Brass Alloy). The yellow color is derived from high zinc and copper content, simulating a gold-like appearance.
Purity: Non-gold; 100% Base Metal. This item is composed of Nickel-Brass (approx. 75% Copper, 20% Zinc, 5% Nickel). It contains 0% gold content.
Type
Coin (Numismatic/Circulation Currency)
Purity
Non-gold; 100% Base Metal. This item is composed of Nickel-Brass (approx. 75% Copper, 20% Zinc, 5% Nickel). It contains 0% gold content.
Gold Type
N/A (Brass Alloy). The yellow color is derived from high zinc and copper content, simulating a gold-like appearance.
Weight
7.0 grams (Standard specification for this issue). Note: Weight is much lower than an equivalent volume of gold.
Description
This is a 1983 circulation 50 Cent coin from the Republic of Cyprus. The obverse features the Coat of Arms of Cyprus: a dove carrying an olive branch inside a shield, surrounded by laurel wreaths, with the independence date '1960'. It is a common base-metal coin, not a gold bullion item.
Key Features
Trilingual legends (Greek, Turkish, English); Coat of Arms with Dove; Large date '1983' at the bottom.
Color & Finish
Pale brassy yellow with a matte, circulated patina. Surface shows heavy oxidation, minor dirt inclusions, and typical 'mucky' toning of base metal rather than the high luster of precious gold.
Hallmarks & Stamps
None. There are no fineness marks (e.g., 585, 750). The inscription reads 'CYPRUS · ΚΥΠΡΟΣ · KIBRIS · 1983', denoting the issuing country in English, Greek, and Turkish.
Dimensions Estimate
26.0 mm diameter; 1.8 mm thickness. Standard circulation size.
Gemstones & Inlays
None. This is a struck metal planchet with relief imagery and no decorative inlays.
Clasp & Closure
N/A. The coin features a reeded edge (milled) for security against clipping.
Chain & Links
N/A. The edge is reeded, which was originally a technique used on gold and silver coins to prevent theft of precious metal from the edges.
Craftsmanship Details
Machine-struck by high-speed industrial presses. Details are utilitarian but clear, typical of 1980s government-issued currency.
Authentication Indicators
Historical design matches known 1983 50-cent pieces. The lack of precious metal hallmarks and the presence of green/brown oxidation 'spotting' are diagnostic for nickel-brass.
Origin & Maker
Cyprus; struck by the Royal Mint in Llantrisant, Wales (United Kingdom) on behalf of the Central Bank of Cyprus.
Era & Period
Modern (Late 20th Century). Specifically, the first series of the Cyprus Pound decimalization.
Age Estimate
1983 (41 years old as of 2024).
Cultural Significance
Represents the economic history of Cyprus following the 1983 move to a decimal system (100 cents = 1 pound).
Condition Notes
Very Good (VG) to Fine (F). Significant surface scratches, edge hits, and grime consistent with years of circulation. High points of the laurel leaves are worn.
Value Estimate
Face value is obsolete. Numismatic value is approximately $0.50 - $2.00 USD. Melt value is negligible (base metal). This item has no gold investment value.
Care & Maintenance
Keep dry to prevent further oxidation. Do not use abrasive cleaners. As a base-metal coin of low value, specialized numismatic storage is optional.
Similar Items
1983 Cyprus 20 Cents (smaller); Gold Sovereigns (actual gold, similar diameter but different weight and design).
Interesting Facts
Despite its gold-like color, this coin was the highest denomination of the decimal coins introduced in 1983. It depicts the Muflon on the reverse (not shown).