United States Administration Philippines One Centavo
Country of Origin: Philippines (under United States Administration)
Year of Issue: 1913
Denomination: One Centavo
Composition: Bronze (95% Copper, 5% Tin and Zinc)
Brief Description
A copper-colored bronze coin featuring a man seated at an anvil with a volcano in the background on the reverse, and the American shield and eagle on the obverse.
Historical Significance
Minted during the period of American Sovereignty in the Philippines (1898-1946). These coins were designed by Melecio Figueroa and were part of the effort to stabilize the Philippine economy under US rule.
Estimated Value
$0.50-$2.00 in circulated (G-VG) condition, $5-$10 in EF, and $25-$50+ in Mint State.
Care Instructions
Handle by the edges only. Do not clean or polish the coin, as this removes original surface patina and significantly reduces numismatic value. Store in a PVC-free flip or archival holder.
Mint Mark
None (San Francisco Mint). Standard for this year.
Mintage & Rarity
Common; Approximately 1,300,000 to over 5,000,000 depending on mint records for various 1913 batches. It is a common date for the series.
Weight & Diameter
5.18 grams, 24 mm
Edge
Plain
Apparent Grade
Fine to Very Fine. The figure, anvil, and eagle show moderate wear with most major details still visible, though the surfaces appear dark and potentially chemically aged or environmental.
Obverse (Front)
An eagle with spread wings perched atop a shield with stripes (US Coat of Arms), surrounded by 'UNITED STATES OF AMERICA' and the date '1913'.
Reverse (Back)
A native Filipino man seated by an anvil holding a hammer, with Mt. Mayon volcano in the background. Inscribed 'ONE CENTAVO' and 'FILIPINAS'.
What Drives This Coin's Value
Mainly condition and luster. High-grade specimens with original red copper luster command the highest prices. Corrosion or heavy 'verdigris' (green spots) visible on this coin reduce value.
Similar Coins
The Half Centavo is smaller and looks similar; later years (1937+) have a slightly modified Commonwealth coat of arms on the obverse.
Authenticity & Counterfeit Red Flags
Authentic coins have sharp details in the volcano's smoke and the man's hair. Check the weight (5.18g) and diameter (24mm) to ensure they match official specs.
Notable Varieties & Errors
There are no major recognized die varieties for the 1913 year, but collectors look for 'Red' (unoxidized) versus 'Brown' (circulated) surface designations.
Created At: 2026-06-04T03:24:03.309615