Peru 1897-VN 1/2 dinero
This specimen was lot 73603 in Stack's Bowers Collectors Choice sale (Costa Mesa, CA, September 2023), where it sold for $60. The catalog description[1] noted, "PERU. 1/2 Dinero, 1897-VN. Lima Mint. NGC MS-64. Quite a desirable variety, the "VN" assayer mark was only utilized for 1/2 Dineros in 1897 and 1898. This piece demonstrates satiny devices and brilliant fields that verge on prooflike in intensity, likely the result of carefully polished dies. Clear near-Gem preservation and bright argent color also augment appeal." This medio dinero, or half dime, was struck in Lima in 1893. This subtype was struck until 1917. Most issued after 1898 were made from melted down one sol coins. Varieties and overdates abound. A earlier type, with a slightly different figure of seated Liberty, was issued 1863-64 (KM 189).
Recorded mintage: 600,000 including JF. JF is common, VN is somewhat scarce.
Specification: 1.25 g, 0.900 fine silver, reeded edge, 15.5 mm diameter.
Catalog reference: KM-206.2.
- Michael, Thomas, and Tracy L. Schmidt, Standard Catalog of World Coins, 1801-1900, 9th ed., Iola, WI: Krause Publications, 2019.
- [1]Orsini, Matt, Kyle Ponterio and Jeremy Bostwick, September 2023 World Collectors Choice Online Auction - Ancient & World Coins, Costa Mesa, CA: Stack's Bowers Galleries, Inc., 2023.
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