Numismatic

1931 Panama Silver 1/10 Balboa BU

---

This silver coin from 1931 represents a fascinating chapter in Panamanian numismatics. Struck at the Philadelphia Mint in the United States, this tenth-Balboa denomination has a purity of 90 percent silver, containing approximately 0.0723 troy ounces of precious metal. With a limited mintage of 200,000 pieces, finding one in Brilliant Uncirculated condition offers a remarkably clear look at the original artistry of the era. The obverse displays the official coat of arms for the Republic of Panama, positioned directly above the 1931 year of issue. Surrounding inscriptions indicate the silver purity of 0.900 and the weight of 2.50 grams, alongside the denomination of one-tenth of a Balboa. On the reverse, the coin features the profile of the famous explorer Vasco Núñez de Balboa. He is depicted facing left, outfitted in historical body armor. This specific issue is cataloged under the reference KM 10.1, making it a compelling piece of early twentieth-century coinage for those exploring Central American monetary history.