20 Centavos ND (1874-1878) front 20 Centavos ND (1874-1878) back
20 Centavos ND (1874-1878) photo
© PCGS

20 Centavos ND

 
Copper 18.67 g 35.95 mm
Description
Issuer
Western Department (Paraguay)
Type
Standard circulation coin
Years
1874-1878
Value
20 Centavos (0.20)
Currency
Military Occupation (1874-1878)
Composition
Copper
Weight
18.67 g
Diameter
35.95 mm
Shape
Round
Technique
Milled, Countermarked
Demonetized
Yes
Updated
2024-10-07
References
Numista
N#246873
Rarity index
100%

Reverse

Countermarked with the Argentinian coat of arms

Script: Latin

Lettering: 1870

Edge

Plain

Comment

During the occupation of the Western Department (actually present day Villa Hayes) by the Argentine army after the war of the Triple Alliance coins of two and four Centésimos of 1870 were counter marked with the Argentine shield on one side and de letters D.O (Departamento Occidental) on the other.
From reliable sources it's been concluded that these coins circulated during the government presided over by Sr. Juan Bautista Gill (1874-1877). Source: Catalógo de Monedas del Paraguay. Miguel Ángel Pratt Mayans 2013

Estimated value range: USD 5000 - 10000 (PCGS #36247384)

Interesting fact

The 20 Centavos coin was part of a series of coins issued by Paraguay during the government of President Juan Gualberto González, who was in power from 1870 to 1878. This series of coins was designed to replace the previous currency, which was based on the Argentine peso, and to establish a new currency system for Paraguay. The 20 Centavos coin was made of copper and had a unique design, featuring the national emblem of Paraguay on one side and the denomination on the other. It was minted in the Western Department of Paraguay, which was a region that was known for its rich mineral resources, including copper. Despite its interesting history, the 20 Centavos coin is not widely sought after by collectors today, and its value is relatively low compared to other coins from the same period.