Obverse. Photo © Monetnik.ru
  • 1 Sol 2024, Peru, Pre-Columbian Сeramics, Moche Culture
  • 1 Sol 2024, Peru, Pre-Columbian Сeramics, Moche Culture
Description

Peru has introduced a stunning new coin series dedicated to Pre-Columbian Ceramics, celebrating the rich cultural heritage and artistic traditions of ancient Peruvian civilizations. Each coin showcases intricate designs inspired by ceramic artifacts created by pre-Columbian cultures, such as the Moche, Chimu, and Nazca. These ceramics, often used for ceremonial or daily purposes, depict animals, deities, and scenes of daily life, reflecting the ingenuity and symbolism of these societies. The series not only highlights Peru's archaeological treasures but also aims to promote cultural awareness and appreciation for its ancient artistry.

Obverse

Depicts the coat of arms of Peru surrounded by the inscription "Central Reserve Bank of Peru", date below.

Peruvian coat of arms consisting of three elements: the top left section shows the vicuña, the national animal, representing the fauna of Peru; the tree in the top right section is the cinchona tree (the source of quinine, a powerful anti-malarial drug and the key flavorant in tonic water), representing the national flora; and the bottom cornucopia with coins spilling from it, represents the mineral resources of the country. It has a palm branch on its left and an laurel one on its right, tied by a ribbon, as well as a Holm oak Civic Crown above it. These represent God, gold, and glory.

BANCO CENTRAL DE RESERVA DEL PERÚ
2024

Reverse

Depicts an anthropomorphic ceramic Huaco Retrato, value below, the inscriptions "Pre-Columbian Ceramics" on the left, and "Moche Culture" above. The symbol LMA on the right represents the mark of the National Mint on a background of vertical lines.

A Huaco Retrato is a type of ceramic vessel created by the ancient Moche culture (100–800 CE) of northern Peru, renowned for its realistic and highly detailed depiction of human faces or figures. The term "huaco" refers to ceramics or pottery in Andean cultures, while "retrato" means portrait in Spanish. These vessels often served as both functional objects and ceremonial items, frequently found in tombs as offerings for the deceased. Huacos Retratos are particularly valued for their lifelike representations of individual people, showcasing expressive features, hairstyles, headdresses, and other distinctive traits, which may reflect the identity, social status, or roles of the individuals portrayed. These artifacts are considered masterpieces of pre-Columbian art and provide valuable insights into the Moche civilization.

CERÁMICA
PRECOLOMBINA
CULTURA
MOCHICA
LMA
1 SOL

Edge
Characteristics
Type Commemorative Issue (Circulating)
Material Nickel Brass
Weight 7.32 g
Diameter 25.5 mm
Thickness 2 mm
Shape round
Alignment Coin
Mint
Lima Mint

Related coins

Formative Period

Pre-Columbian Сeramics

Nickel Brass, 7.32 g, ⌀ 25.5 mm