Scarce 1931 Panama 1/4 Silver Balboa Coin – Key Date (Low Mintage: 48,000)

Up for sale is a scarce 1931 Panama 1/4 Balboa silver coin. Struck at the Philadelphia Mint, this issue features the lowest regular circulation mintage of the entire silver 1/4 Balboa series, making it the premier key date for collectors of Panamanian and world silver coinage.

This coin retains attractive, original aged toning with a classic grey-brown patina and has not been harshly cleaned. All inscriptions on both sides are bold, sharp, and complete, including the 1931 date, REPVBLICA DE PANAMA, and VN CVARTO DE BALBOA.

Key design elements—including the nine stars above the eagle, the central coat of arms shield details, and the fine dotted border along Vasco Núñez de Balboa’s collar—remain clear and well-defined.

Coin Specifications & Details:

• Country: Panama

• Year: 1931

• Denomination: 1/4 Balboa (Un Cuarto de Balboa)

• Mintage: 48,000 (Key Date – Lowest regular issue mintage)

• Mint: Philadelphia Mint (No mint mark)

• Composition: 90% Silver (.900 Fine)

• Weight: 6.25 grams

• Diameter: 24.3 mm

• Edge: Reeded

• Obverse Design: Coat of arms of Panama featuring an eagle holding a ribbon reading "PRO MVNDI BENEFICIO" beneath nine stars, flanked by "LEY 0.900" and "GR. 6.25", with the date 1931 below.

• Reverse Design: Armored bust of Spanish explorer Vasco Núñez de Balboa facing left, inscribed "VN CVARTO DE BALBOA".

Please review all high-resolution photos carefully to judge the coin's exact condition and eye appeal for yourself