Cuba 2003 25 centavos

from the Mountain Groan Collection

This type was struck for Cuba starting in 1994. This is the convertible type. The regime, wishing to obtain foreign exchange (i.e., dollars), encouraged tourism and remittances from Cuban expatriates by establishing a convertible peso pegged to the dollar. These are known by locals and tourists as "CUC's" (pronounced "KOOKS"). The national currency (the ordinary peso) was allowed to sink but could still be used in the government subsidized stores for the purchase of staples.

Recorded mintage: unknown but common.

Specification: 5.85 g, nickel plated steel, 23 mm diameter, coin alignment.

Catalog reference: KM 577.2.

Source:

• Michael, Thomas, and Tracy L. Schmidt, Standard Catalog of World Coins, 2001-Date, 13th ed., Iola, WI: Krause Publications, 2018.

Link to:

• 2002 5 centavos
• 2003 100 pesos, Che Guevara
• 2004 25 pesos, 2006 FIFA World Cup
• 2006 25 centavos
• Coins and currency dated 2003
• return to coins of Cuba