Irish 10 Pence Salmon Coin (Cupronickel Base)
Coin (Decimal Currency) · None (Silver-colored base metal alloy)
Purity: Non-gold; 0% gold content. This item is composed of Cupronickel (75% Copper, 25% Nickel).
Type
Coin (Decimal Currency)
Purity
Non-gold; 0% gold content. This item is composed of Cupronickel (75% Copper, 25% Nickel).
Gold Type
None (Silver-colored base metal alloy)
Weight
Approx. 5.45 grams (post-1993 small version) or 11.31 grams (pre-1993 large version)
Description
A classic piece of Irish decimal currency featuring the leaping salmon design by Percy Metcalfe. Originally part of the 1928 Saorstát Eireann coinage, it was retained for the decimal 10p until the adoption of the Euro.
Key Features
Stylized leaping salmon based on Irish mythology; '10P' typeface; beaded border on the rim.
Color & Finish
Silver-white metallic hue; circulated matte finish with surface oxidation and minor scratches.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Stamped with denomination '10P' and Gaelic 'P' for pingin; reverse (not shown) would feature the Irish Harp and year.
Dimensions Estimate
22.0 mm diameter (if small version) or 28.5 mm diameter (if large pre-1993 version)
Gemstones & Inlays
None
Clasp & Closure
None; reeded or 'milled' edge
Chain & Links
N/A; circular coin profile with a reeded edge for security.
Craftsmanship Details
Industrial high-pressure strike; die-struck with moderate detail in the scales and fins; uniform thickness.
Authentication Indicators
Correct typeface for Irish coinage; official Percy Metcalfe design alignment; characteristic cupronickel color.
Origin & Maker
Ireland (Eire); Minted at the Central Bank of Ireland, Dublin.
Era & Period
Modern Decimalization Era (1969–2002)
Age Estimate
Circa 1969-1992 (Large) or 1993-2000 (Small version)
Cultural Significance
A symbol of Irish economic sovereignty and heritage, used daily by the Irish public for over 30 years.
Condition Notes
Circulated / Good. Visible bag marks, surface wear on higher relief areas, and slight rim dings.
Value Estimate
Face value is nulled (demonetized); numismatic value is roughly $0.50 - $2.00 USD depending on the year.
Care & Maintenance
Do not clean with abrasives; store in a dry, PVC-free coin flip to prevent 'green slime' or oxidation.
Similar Items
Pre-decimal Florin (2 Shillings); British 10p coin (same dimensions); commemorative Irish silvers.
Interesting Facts
The salmon design represents the 'Salmon of Knowledge' from the Fenian Cycle of Irish mythology.