10 Colones
Costa Rica 10 Colones
Costa Rica (issue of Banco Central de Costa Rica) · 1983
A decagonal (10-sided) stainless steel coin featuring the national coat of arms and a large numerical denomination.
- Country
- Costa Rica (issue of Banco Central de Costa Rica)
- Year
- 1983
- Denomination
- 10 Colones
- Metal
- Stainless Steel
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Overview
A decagonal (10-sided) stainless steel coin featuring the national coat of arms and a large numerical denomination.
Historical significance
Following the economic crisis and hyperinflation in the late 1970s and early 1980s, Costa Rica moved away from base-metal plated coins toward durable stainless steel for its circulating currency. This 1983 issue was part of a major design update during the administration of Luis Alberto Monge.
Obverse (front)
Features the National Coat of Arms of Costa Rica (Escudo de Costa Rica) displaying three volcanoes, two ships, and seven stars representing the provinces. Legend "COSTA RICA" above and the date "1983" below.
Reverse (back)
Large numeral "10" set against a background of diagonal hatching lines. Below the number is the word "COLONES" and the initials "B.C.C.R." (Banco Central de Costa Rica) flanked by laurel branches.
Estimated value
$0.25 - $0.50 in circulated condition; $1.00 - $3.00 in high-grade Brilliant Uncirculated (BU) condition.
What drives this coin's value
Condition is the primary value factor. Circulation wear significantly lowers collector interest, as these were produced in high numbers and are still widely available in mint state.
Grade assessment
Extremely Fine (XF) to About Uncirculated (AU). The coin shows minor circulation marks and light scratches but retains strong details in the shield and crisp lettering.
Mintage & rarity
Common; mintage for 1983 was approximately 35,000,000 units.
Authenticity & counterfeit red flags
Check for crispness in the diagonal lines on the reverse and the magnetic property of the stainless steel. Authenticity is rarely an issue for this low-value denomination.
Notable varieties & errors
No major recognized varieties or errors for this specific year.
Similar coins
1982 and 1984 issues of the same denomination. The 1983 is distinguished specifically by the date on the obverse.
Care & preservation
Stainless steel is highly resistant to corrosion but can still scratch. Store in PVC-free flips or cardboard 2x2s. Avoid abrasive cleaning which can ruin the original luster.
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