The peseta made its debut in 1868 and remained a staple in Spanish life for over 130 years. It officially ceased to exist on December 31, 2001, when it was replaced by the euro. Spaniards bid their final farewell to the beloved currency on January 1, 2002.
Despite this farewell, many people still hold onto their pesetas, both coins and bills, in their homes. According to the Bank of Spain, a staggering 1,575 million euros worth of the old currency is still tucked away in people’s drawers.
Among these, the 100 peseta coins and bills were some of the most common and widely used. If you have the ones we’re about to mention, you’re holding onto a real treasure because they are now worth thousands of euros.
Which 100 Pesetas Coins Are the Most Valuable?
Determining the value of a coin or a banknote involves several factors. These include the year of minting, the
- rarity of the piece,
- any errors in its printing
- or minting,
- and, of course, its age.
Characteristics of an 1870 Circulated Coin
One noteworthy coin that entered circulation in 1870 possesses fascinating characteristics. During this period, Spain was under a provisional government following the fall of Isabel II after the Glorious Revolution. This coin measures 36 millimeters in diameter and contains 32.25 grams of gold.
On its obverse side, the coin features an effigy symbolizing national sovereignty, while the reverse side displays the official monarchical coat of arms of the time. What is its value? In the most recent auction where this coin was available, it fetched a remarkable 150,000 euros.
Auction Insights and Historical Value
The initial bidding price at the auction organized by Soler & Llach was 130,000 euros, and this took place in 2016. Since then, its value has likely increased. The high price paid for this coin can be attributed to several factors, including its perfect state of preservation. Furthermore, it is important to note that only a dozen of these pieces were ever minted.
What Other Coins Are Worth Thousands of Euros?
Beyond the sought-after 100 peseta coin, which is undoubtedly the most valuable, there are other coins that can fetch significant sums in numismatic auctions. One such example is the 100 peseta coin from 1897. This coin is round, has a diameter of 36 millimeters, and contains 32.25 grams of gold with a purity of 900 thousandths.
The 1897 100 Peseta Coin
On the obverse side, the inscription reads “Alfonso XIII por la Gracia de Dios 1897,” while the reverse side bears the legend “Rey Constl. de España 100 pesetas.” Only 810 pieces were minted, and its auction price hovers around 3,000 euros.
The 100 Peseta Coin of 1966
After this, the value of 100 peseta coins diminishes. For instance, there is the 100 peseta coin from 1966. Minted in silver, it was produced between 1966 and 1970.
However, the most valuable version is the one with the year 1969 marked on the star. Why, you ask? Because that year, fewer coins were minted—only 4,500 out of a total of 56 million. Depending on its condition, this coin can reach up to 400 euros. For other coins, their value will largely depend on the price of silver.
Other Notable Numismatic Treasures
- 1897 100 Peseta Coin: Made of gold, limited mintage, valued at around 3,000 euros.
- 1966 100 Peseta Coin: Silver, with the rare 1969 star marking, valued up to 400 euros.
In the world of currency collectors, certain coins and banknotes hold a fascinating allure. For example, the 100 pesetas coin from 1980, featuring the image of King Juan Carlos, can fetch a similar amount to its historical counterparts. However, the 100 pesetas coin from 1992 is valued at around 100 euros.
Which 100 Pesetas Banknotes Are the Most Valuable?
Among the most coveted is the 100 pesetas banknote from 1875. At the prestigious auction house Aureo & Calicó, this note starts at 8,000 euros, with expectations of reaching up to 12,000 euros.
Once part of the Marqués de la Ensenada’s collection, its front side features engravings of female figures and allegories of science and industry. Similarly, a 1938 banknote could also reach the 12,000 euros mark.
This note is adorned with the image of the Dama de Elche, presented in brown and violet hues and marked with the unique serial number 0000000 in black. It maintains its original texture and relief, with distinct undulations that add to its rarity and charm.
In the fascinating world of collectible currency, the upcoming auction by Aureo & Calicó showcases some truly remarkable pieces. Among the most notable is a 100 pesetas note from 1876, crafted by the American Bank Note Company in New York.
This unique item, part of the prestigious Ramón de Santillán collection, features the iconic figure of Lope de Vega. Instead of the usual signatures of the auditor and cashier, it bears the word ‘muestra’, and ‘specimen’ replaces the governor’s signature. The note is numbered 00000, and the bidding starts at 1,500 euros, with expectations to reach 2,500 euros.
Significant 100 Pesetas Notes
Another 100 pesetas note of interest dates back to 1900. This piece, lacking any cashier signatures or numbering, features an image of Quevedo. The starting bid is set at 1,500 euros, with the potential to rise to 2,500 euros during the auction.
Unique Features and Historical Details
A noteworthy mention also goes to a 1906 banknote from the renowned Bradbury Wilkinson & Company in London. This particular note has been demonetized with a ‘canceled’ perforation. Its original handwritten annotations on the upper margin are “skillfully concealed,” and it features a paper-specific striation in the upper left corner of the reverse side. The auction opens with a starting bid of 800 euros, hoping to reach up to 2,000 euros.