Modern Guatemala Coin List
Guatemala | 5 centavos
Guatemala | 5 centavos
Guatemala | 5 cents
Guatemala | 10 centavos
Guatemala | 1/4 de quetzal
Guatemala | 1 quetzal
Guatemala | 1/4 de quetzal
Guatemala | 5 quetzales
Guatemala | 20 quetzales
Guatemala | 1/2 centavo quetzal
Guatemala | 1/2 centavo quetzal
Guatemala | 1 centavo
Guatemala | 2 centavos
Guatemala | 1 centavo
Guatemala | 2 centavos
Guatemala | 25 centavos
Guatemala | 1 cent
Guatemala | 5 cents
Guatemala | 10 cents
Guatemala | 10 cents
Guatemala | 10 centavos
Guatemala | 5 centavos
Guatemala | 5 cents
Guatemala | 5 cents
Guatemala | 25 centavos
The most valuable and popular coins
The most valuable Modern Guatemala coins and sought after by collectors according to Foronum statistics are the following:
Historical information
The Modern era in Guatemala from 1924 onwards marked a period of significant changes in the country's monetary history. During this time, Guatemala experienced important economic and political transformations that were reflected in its monetary system and in the currencies that circulated in the national territory.
The Quetzal as the national currency
In 1924, Guatemala officially adopted the Quetzal as its national currency, replacing the old Guatemalan Peso. This decision was part of a series of economic reforms implemented by the government of José María Orellana. The Quetzal was divided into 100 centavos and was initially established at par with the US dollar. The first Quetzal coins were minted in silver and gold, reflecting the country's natural wealth and its aspiration for a stable economy. These pieces featured designs that honored Guatemalan history and culture, including depictions of the quetzal, the national bird, and Mayan motifs on their reverses.
Evolution of Guatemalan coins
Over the following decades, Guatemalan coins underwent several changes in design and composition. In the 1950s, nickel and cupro-nickel coins were introduced for the lower denominations, while higher value coins continued to be minted in silver until the 1960s. An important milestone was the issuance of commemorative coins beginning in the 1970s, celebrating historical events and important national figures. These pieces served not only as a medium of exchange, but also as collector's items and national pride. As the Guatemalan economy faced challenges, the composition of the coins adapted, using cheaper alloys but maintaining designs that reflected the country's identity and cultural heritage.