1997 Spain 25 Pesetas (Castilla-La Mancha) Coin
Coin (Circulation/Numismatic) · None (Yellow-toned base metal alloy)
Purity: Non-gold; Composition is Bronce-Aluminium (Copper 92%, Aluminium 6%, Nickel 2%). It contains 0% gold.
Type
Coin (Circulation/Numismatic)
Purity
Non-gold; Composition is Bronce-Aluminium (Copper 92%, Aluminium 6%, Nickel 2%). It contains 0% gold.
Gold Type
None (Yellow-toned base metal alloy)
Weight
4.39 grams (Standard mint specification)
Description
This is a 25 Pesetas coin from Spain, minted in 1997. It is part of the regional series, this specific issue featuring the architecture of Melilla (often associated with the Castilla-La Mancha commemorative cycle). It is characterized by its distinct central hole and yellow-gold-colored aluminum-bronze alloy.
Key Features
Central circular hole, raised relief of Melilla's town hall towers, 'ESPAÑA 1997' lettering, and the 'M' crowned mint mark.
Color & Finish
Yellowish-bronze metallic luster; shows dulling and surface grime consistent with circulation. Not gold-plated.
Hallmarks & Stamps
M-crown mint mark (Royal Mint of Spain/Fábrica Nacional de Moneda y Timbre); Text: ESPAÑA 1997
Dimensions Estimate
19.5 mm diameter, 2.1 mm thickness; features a central 4.5 mm circular hole.
Gemstones & Inlays
None
Clasp & Closure
None; plain, smooth edge finishing.
Chain & Links
N/A; circular coin with center-holed design.
Craftsmanship Details
Machine-struck; moderate relief depth with clear architectural lines. High-speed industrial minting standards.
Authentication Indicators
Correct diameter and central hole placement; typical aluminum-bronze color; accurate typography for the Spanish Royal Mint 1990s issues.
Origin & Maker
Spain; Royal Mint (Fábrica Nacional de Moneda y Timbre - FNMT)
Era & Period
Modern (Late 20th Century Spanish Peseta era)
Age Estimate
Produced in 1997; approximately 27 years old.
Cultural Significance
A staple of Spanish daily commerce in the late 90s, representing the transition from the historic Peseta to a unified European currency.
Condition Notes
Circulated; Very Good (VG) to Fine (F) condition. Visible surface scratches, minor dings on the rim, and darkening/toning in the recessed details of the architecture.
Value Estimate
Low; approximately $0.25 - $1.00 USD. It has no gold melt value; its value is purely numismatic or sentimental.
Care & Maintenance
Do not clean with abrasives; store in a dry environment. Keep in a coin flip or sleeve to prevent further oxidation of the copper content.
Similar Items
Other 25 Peseta 'holed' coins (1990-1997) featuring different Spanish regions like Canary Islands, Barcelona, or Seville.
Interesting Facts
The hole in the center was designed to help people distinguish it from other coins by touch. This was one of the last denominations used before Spain adopted the Euro in 2002.