Philippines 1998 100th Anniversary of Independence Mint never hinged

Philippines 1998 100th Anniversary of Independence Mint never hinged

The Philippines celebrated the centennial (100th anniversary) of its independence in 1998. This significant milestone commemorated the declaration of independence from Spanish colonial rule on June 12, 1898. To mark this occasion, various commemorative activities, events, and items were produced, including coins, stamps, and other memorabilia.

Commemorative Coins

The Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP), the central bank of the Philippines, issued special commemorative coins to celebrate the centennial. Here are some details about these coins:

1. Design and Denominations:
   • 1 Peso Coin: The obverse featured the portrait of Emilio Aguinaldo, the first President of the Philippines and a key figure in the independence movement. The reverse showed the 1898 Philippine Declaration of Independence.
   • 5 Peso Coin: This coin had an image of the Barasoain Church in Malolos, Bulacan, which was a significant site in the history of Philippine independence and the location where the Malolos Congress convened.
   • 10 Peso Coin: The obverse displayed the image of the Aguinaldo Shrine in Kawit, Cavite, where the declaration of independence was made. The reverse featured the Philippine flag.
2. Materials:
   • The coins were made from various metals. The 1 peso and 5 peso coins were typically made of copper-nickel, while the 10 peso coin often included a bi-metallic design with a copper-nickel center and a brass ring.
3. Symbolism:
   • The designs on these coins were chosen to reflect significant events, people, and places related to the Philippine fight for independence and national identity.

Other Commemorative Items

In addition to coins, other items were produced to celebrate the centennial:

1. Stamps: The Philippine Postal Corporation issued a series of stamps featuring important historical events, landmarks, and figures associated with the independence movement.
2. Medals and Memorabilia: Various medals, medallions, and other memorabilia were created to commemorate the centennial, often featuring similar themes and designs as the coins.
3. Events and Celebrations: Nationwide celebrations included parades, reenactments of historical events, cultural shows, and educational activities to promote national pride and historical awareness.

Historical Context

The declaration of independence on June 12, 1898, marked the end of over 300 years of Spanish colonial rule. However, true independence was not fully realized until July 4, 1946, when the United States formally recognized Philippine independence following World War II. The centennial celebration in 1998 thus honored the initial declaration and the long struggle for full sovereignty.

Collectibility and Significance

The 1998 commemorative items are valuable to collectors and historians as they encapsulate a pivotal moment in Philippine history. These coins and other memorabilia serve as tangible reminders of the country’s journey towards independence and its rich cultural heritage.