Local Currency (1881-1969) Coins
The Moneda Nacional was Argentina's official monetary system from 1881 to 1969. During this period, the country underwent several economic and political changes that were reflected in the issuance and circulation of coins. This monetary system was fundamental for the economic consolidation of the country and its integration into the international market.
First issues and characteristics
The Monetary Unification Law of 1881 established the peso as the official monetary unit. The first coins minted under this system were made of silver and copper, with denominations ranging from 1 cent to 1 peso. These pieces featured designs that reflected the national identity, such as the Argentine coat of arms and the Sun of May. Over the years, new alloys and designs were introduced, such as nickel coins of 5, 10 and 20 centavos, which became very popular due to their durability and practicality in everyday transactions.
Economic evolution and challenges
During the first decades of the 20th century, Argentina experienced significant economic growth, which was reflected in the stability of its currency. However, starting in the 1930s, the country faced several economic challenges that affected the value and production of coins. Metal shortages during World War II led to the minting of coins made of aluminum and other cheaper alloys. In the following decades, rising inflation forced the issuance of higher denomination coins and frequent changes in the designs and materials used. Finally, in 1969, the peso moneda nacional was replaced by the peso ley, marking the end of an era in Argentina's monetary history.
The most valuable and popular coins
The most valuable Local Currency (1881-1969) coins and sought after by collectors according to Foronum statistics are the following:
The valuation of these coins has been achieved through a meticulous algorithm that considers the current market, taking into account aspects such as material, weight, diameter, edge, year of mintage, mint of manufacture and the number of coins produced. Coins with limited mintages and in good condition are usually among the most valuable.
Ancient coins of Argentina
To facilitate their classification, we have decided to organise the coins according to their historical period, you can consult the coins by historical numismatic categories of Argentina.
Peso Fuerte 1826-1881 Local Currency 1881-1969 Peso Law 18.188 1970-1983 Argentine Peso 1983-1985 Austral 1985-1991 Peso 1992-?Coin Catalog
Argentina | 10 centavos
Argentina | 20 centavos
Argentina | 50 centavos (½ patacon)
Argentina | 1 peso (1 patacon)
Argentina | 2½ pesos (½ Argentine)
Argentina | 5 pesos (1 argentine)
Argentina | 1 centavo
Argentina | 2 centavos
Argentina | 5 centavos
Argentina | 10 centavos
Argentina | 20 centavos
Argentina | 1 centavo
Argentina | 1 centavo
Argentina | 2 centavos
Argentina | 2 centavos
Argentina | 50 centavos
Argentina | 5 centavos
Argentina | 10 centavos
Argentina | 20 centavos
Argentina | 5 centavos (Year of the Liberator General San Martín)
Argentina | 10 centavos
Argentina | 20 centavos
Argentina | 5 centavos
Argentina | 5 centavos
Argentina | 10 centavos
Other resources to find coins and banknotes of Argentina
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