Guatemala Coin List

The official currency of Guatemala is the quetzal, adopted in 1925. This monetary system has a rich history and has undergone several changes over time, reflecting the economic and political evolution of the country.

Monetary history of Guatemala

Before the adoption of the quetzal, Guatemala used several currencies, including the Guatemalan peso and the real. During the colonial period, Spanish coins circulated, and after independence in 1821, the first national coins were issued. In 1859, the Guatemalan peso was introduced, which was replaced by the quetzal in 1925 as part of a monetary reform to stabilize the economy.

Relevant numismatic milestones

Among the highlights in Guatemalan numismatics is the issuance of the first quetzal coin in 1925, minted in silver. In 1965, the first nickel coins were introduced to replace the silver coins. An important milestone was the issuance of the Quinto Centenario commemorative coin in 1992, celebrating the 500th anniversary of the discovery of America. Currently, coins of 1, 5, 10, 25 and 50 cents, as well as 1 quetzal, all minted in different metal alloys, are in circulation.