Philippines 5 Piso Coin (2004) - Nickel-Brass Composition
Coin (Circulation Currency) · Nickel-Brass Alloy (70% Copper, 24% Zinc, 6% Nickel)
Purity: Non-Gold (0% Purity)
Type
Coin (Circulation Currency)
Purity
Non-Gold (0% Purity)
Gold Type
Nickel-Brass Alloy (70% Copper, 24% Zinc, 6% Nickel)
Weight
7.70 grams
Description
This is a standard Philippine 5 Piso circulation coin from the year 2004. It features a right-facing profile of General Emilio Aguinaldo, the first President of the Philippines. The coin is struck in a nickel-brass alloy, which gives it a distinct pale golden or yellowish hue that can often be mistaken for low-carat gold by laypeople. The design includes a scalloped inner border and bold sans-serif lettering.
Key Features
Scalloped inner border on the obverse; portrait of Emilio Aguinaldo; distinctive nickel-brass yellowish coloration; 27mm diameter.
Color & Finish
Pale yellowish-silver with a matte, circulated finish; exhibits surface grime and moderate oxidation patina
Hallmarks & Stamps
Date '2004', Denomination '5 PISO', Text 'REPUBLIKA NG PILIPINAS', and 'EMILIO AGUINALDO' name stamp
Dimensions Estimate
27.0 mm diameter, 1.9 mm thickness
Gemstones & Inlays
None
Clasp & Closure
Plain, smooth edge (typical for this denomination)
Chain & Links
Not applicable (Single disc struck from planchet)
Craftsmanship Details
Machine-struck from a planchet with high-relief lettering. The die characteristics show standard production and mass-circulation quality without the precision of a proof strike.
Authentication Indicators
Weight and diameter match BSP specifications for nickel-brass 5 Piso; magnetic response (weak/none) consistent with alloy; strike details show authentic BSP typography.
Origin & Maker
Philippines; struck by the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) Security Plant Complex
Era & Period
Modern - BSP (Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas) New Design Series (1995-2017)
Age Estimate
Produced in 2004; approximately 20 years old
Cultural Significance
Features Emilio Aguinaldo, a national hero who led the Philippine Revolution against Spain and the Philippine-American War. This coin is part of the 'New Design Series' which circulated for over two decades.
Condition Notes
Circulated/Good. Visible surface scratches, minor rim dings, and significant accumulation of dirt/skin oils in the recessed areas. No structural damage beyond standard wear.
Value Estimate
Face value (5 Philippine Pesos) / Melt value of copper/zinc content approximately $0.02 - $0.05 USD. No precious metal value.
Care & Maintenance
Keep dry to prevent further oxidation; use mild soap and water if cleaning for sanitation, though coin collectors generally advise against abrasive cleaning to preserve numismatic history.
Similar Items
1995-2017 5 Piso (Nickel-Brass), 2017-Present 5 Piso (New Generation Currency - Silver Color/Nickel-Plated Steel), and 19th-century Spanish Gold Escudos (which share a similar color but are actual gold).
Interesting Facts
The 5 Piso coin was originally a 2-inch silver coin in the early 1900s; this modern 2004 version was designed for high durability and cost-effective production using a brass-based alloy.