Spain 25 Pesetas 1997 Melilla Commemorative Coin (Aluminum-Bronze)
Coin (Numismatic/Circulation) · None (Aluminum-Bronze). A copper-based alloy with aluminum, often used for currency to provide a durable, gold-colored finish without the cost of gold.
Purity: 0% (Non-Gold). This item is composed of an Aluminum-Bronze alloy, which mimics the appearance of gold but contains no precious metal content.
Type
Coin (Numismatic/Circulation)
Purity
0% (Non-Gold). This item is composed of an Aluminum-Bronze alloy, which mimics the appearance of gold but contains no precious metal content.
Gold Type
None (Aluminum-Bronze). A copper-based alloy with aluminum, often used for currency to provide a durable, gold-colored finish without the cost of gold.
Weight
4.25 grams (standard specification for this issue)
Description
A circular holed coinage featuring an amphora design on the left, commemorating the 500th anniversary of the Spanish city of Melilla. While it possesses a golden luster common to bronze-aluminum alloys, it was a standard circulating currency in Spain before the Euro.
Key Features
Distinctive central hole, 'Crowned M' mint mark, and commemorative dates 1497-1997.
Color & Finish
Pale yellow-gold brassy tone with a satin/circulated finish. Shows typical surface oxidation (toning) and micro-scratches from handling.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Royal Spanish Mint mark (crowned M) on the right; '25 PTAS' denomination; 'MELILLA' and '1497-1997' inscriptions.
Dimensions Estimate
19.5 mm diameter, 2.1 mm thickness (standard)
Gemstones & Inlays
None
Clasp & Closure
Not applicable; features a central circular hole (holed coin design style).
Chain & Links
Plain edge (smooth) with no reeding.
Craftsmanship Details
Machine-struck by high-speed industrial coin presses; featuring clean relief and standardized industrial tolerances.
Authentication Indicators
Correct font styles and mint mark for 1990s Spanish coinage; the color is diagnostic of aluminum-bronze rather than solid gold.
Origin & Maker
Kingdom of Spain; Royal Mint of Spain (Real Casa de la Moneda).
Era & Period
Modern (Late 20th Century Spanish Monarchy). Commemorative for the 500th anniversary of Melilla becoming Spanish.
Age Estimate
Produced in 1997.
Cultural Significance
Celebrates the historical connection between mainland Spain and the autonomous city of Melilla in North Africa.
Condition Notes
Very Good (Circulated). Visible surface wear, minor contact marks, and slight dulling of the original mint luster.
Value Estimate
Approximately $0.50 - $2.00 USD. It holds numismatic value but zero intrinsic gold melt value.
Care & Maintenance
Keep dry to prevent verdigris (green oxidation); do not clean with abrasives as it destroys numismatic value.
Similar Items
Other holed Spanish 25 Pesetas from the 1990s (Castilla y León, Canarias, etc.) or 14K gold jewelry charms made to look like coins.
Interesting Facts
The hole in the center was designed to make the coin easily distinguishable from other denominations by touch and to save on material costs.