Description
The Guatemalan Quetzal is the official currency in Guatemala and was named in honor of the national bird “resplendent quetzal”. It was introduced in 1925, replacing the peso. The first coins were issued in denominations of 1, 5 and 10 centavos, ¼, ½, and 1 quetzal. In 1932 were added ½ and 2 centavos coins followed by 1 quetzal in 1998. However, the ½ and 1 quetzal notes were introduced to replace equivalent notes at the end of the 1990s.
The 10 Centavos coin front design features the National Coat of Arms (composed of the national bird of Guatemala, the Quetzal, a scroll with the date on which Central America became independent from Spain, on September 15, 1821; two crossed rifles, with bayonets, two crossed swords and a laurel wreath). The reverse coin design has the “Monolito de Quiriguá” (an ancient Maya archaeological site) and the denomination. This coin is part of the 1976 – 2009 series, its rim is fluted, and its color is silver.
Text: 10 Centavos, Republica de Guatemala, el 15 de septiembre de 1821, Monolito de Quiriguá, 2006.