Costa Rica 500 Colones 2003 Coin Detailed Summary
The Costa Rica 500 Colones coin from 2003 is a notable piece of the country's modern numismatic history. Minted by the Casa de Moneda de Chile, this coin is part of the standard circulation series issued by the Central Bank of Costa Rica during the Second Republic period.
Specifications:
Design Details:
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Obverse: Features the national coat of arms of Costa Rica, which includes seven stars representing the seven provinces, three smoking volcanoes symbolizing the three mountain ranges, two ships that highlight Costa Rica's geographical position between the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans, and a sunrise on the left side. The inscriptions read "REPUBLICA DE COSTA RICA" and "AMERICA CENTRAL" along with the year of minting.
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Reverse: Displays the denomination "500 COLONES" above coffee branches, a nod to one of Costa Rica's key agricultural products. It also includes the initials "B.C.C.R." for Banco Central de Costa Rica. The coin features value in Braille for accessibility.
Historical Context: This coin was issued during a period of economic stability and modernization in Costa Rica. The design reflects national pride and the importance of agriculture and geography to the country's identity.
Collector Value: With a mintage of approximately 15 million coins in 2003, the 500 Colones coin is relatively common in circulated condition. However, well-preserved specimens, especially those with thick numerals, can fetch a modest premium among collectors. The coin is set to be demonetized on July 1, 2025, which may increase interest among numismatists.
This detailed summary provides a comprehensive overview of the Costa Rica 500 Colones 2003 coin, suitable for collectors and enthusiasts interested in Central American currency.
