The Quetzal of Guatemala The 1925 coin is one of Central America's most iconic pieces and a key reference for regional numismatics. Struck in 0.720-millesimal silver (weighing 25 grams), its design combines national symbols such as the quetzal—the bird that gives the coin its name—and the Phrygian cap, representing freedom and Guatemalan identity. Its creation, under the government of José María Orellana, was part of a monetary reform that replaced the peso with the quetzal, linking it to the gold standard to stabilize the economy. Today, it is highly valued by collectors, not only for its beauty but for its role in consolidating Guatemala as a modern nation.
History of the Quetzal of 1925
The 1 Quetzal coin was first minted in 1925, following the enactment of the Monetary Law of 1924 under the government of José María Orellana, which replaced the Guatemalan peso at a rate of 60 pesos to the quetzal. This change was part of a strategy to stabilize the economy, pegging the new currency to the gold standard and establishing a 1:1 parity with the US dollar, which remained in effect until 1980.
José María Orellana, the architect of the reform, did not appear on the currency, but his legacy was immortalized on the banknotes of the era, where his image dominated the first series. The creation of the quetzal not only consolidated a stable economic policy but also became an emblem of national pride, merging pre-Hispanic history and modernity.
Technical Specifications and Dimensions
Diameter: 39 mm
Thickness: 3.15 mm
Weight in grams: 33.33 grams
Characteristics of the song: Recorded
Design and Representation of the Currency
Obverse: On the obverse of the coin appears the national coat of arms of Guatemala, with the quetzal bird perched on a scroll showing the date of independence (FREEDOM SEPTEMBER 15, 1821), two crossed rifles, swords, and a laurel wreath. Surrounding the shield, the legend at the top can be read: “REPUBLIC OF GUATEMALA”, and at the bottom "1925".
Back: The reverse of the 1 Quetzal of Guatemala of 1925 prominently depicts a quetzal, national bird and symbol of freedom, perched on a Ionic-style column which has the date inscribed on it “JUNE 30, 1871”, in commemoration of the Guatemalan Liberal Revolution. To the left of the pedestal is the number "1", and just below the word "QUETZAL", indicating the coin's denomination. Surrounding the top edge is the legend “LAW OF NOVEMBER 26, 1924”
Symbolism of each design element: The 1 Quetzal of Guatemala of 1925 is loaded with nationalist, historical and cultural symbolism that reflects the ideals of the country at a key stage of its development. In the obverse, the national shield highlights the quetzal —symbol of freedom— placed on a scroll with the legend “FREEDOM SEPTEMBER 15, 1821”, in allusion to the date of independence. It is accompanied by two crossed rifles y swords, which represent the defense of national sovereignty, while the Laurel wreath symbolizes victory and glory. In the on reverse, the quetzal appears again, perched on a Ionic column with the inscription “JUNE 30, 1871”, a key date that commemorates the Liberal Revolution, an event that drove the country's modernization. The legend “LAW OF NOVEMBER 26, 1924” It refers to the legislation that established the quetzal as the national currency, consolidating economic sovereignty. Together, each element of the coin conveys a message of independence, progress, and national pride, making this piece much more than a medium of exchange: a tangible symbol of Guatemalan identity.
Composition of the Currency
The 1 Quetzal coin was minted in an alloy of 1925 millesimals silver (720% pure silver) and 72 millesimals copper (280%), with a total weight of 28 grams. This combination guaranteed a balance between intrinsic value and functionality: the silver, linked to the country's monetary backing under the gold standard, represented economic stability, while the copper provided wear resistance, preserving the intricate details of its design.
Manufacturing Mints
The coin was minted in the United States, specifically at the Philadelphia Mint. It bears no visible mint mark, which is typical of coins minted at this mint.
La original mintage it was of 10,000 copies, however, its current availability is extremely limited due to later foundries: in In 1927 and 1928, approximately 7,000 pieces were removed and melted down., And in 1932 Another melt was carried out, the exact number of coins destroyed is unknown. This leaves an estimate of less than 3,000 units in stock Today, this makes this coin one of the most coveted and rare in the Guatemalan numismatic repertoire.
Below is a table with relevant information on the mintage:
| Year | coinage |
|---|---|
| 1925 | 10 000 |
Information partially obtained from numist
Current Numismatic Value
El Guatemalan Quetzal of 1925 It has a high numismatic value due to its design, historical relevance and, especially, its extreme shortage. Although 10,000 pieces were originally minted, between In 1927 and 1928, approximately 7,000 copies were cast., And in 1932 Another casting was carried out, the exact number of which is unknown, leaving it in circulation less than 3,000 units Currently, this limited availability has significantly increased its demand among collectors.
Examples of auction prices
- 1 Quetzal of 1925, MS62: It reached $13,800.00 US dollars in 2023
- 1 Quetzal of 1925, AU58: It reached $3,360.00 US dollars in 2024
El Guatemalan Quetzal of 1925 It's not only a silver piece of great beauty, but also a symbol of Guatemalan national sovereignty and a reflection of an era of reform and consolidation. Its historical, artistic, and economic value makes it a gem for any numismatic collection. If you're passionate about coins with history, this is one that definitely deserves a place in your collection.
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Some images shown in this article were obtained from Stack's Bowers, for illustrative and educational purposes.
