The 1978 Franklin Mint 5 Piso is a interesting coin in
Philippine numismatic history. The collectible coin, bearing the image of President Ferdinand Marcos, marks a contentious era in the country's history while providing collectors with a finely crafted coin with small mintage.
Origins and Manufacturing
Struck during the Republic of the Philippines era (1967-1994), this coin features the unique "FM" mint mark signifying its manufacture in the Franklin Mint plant in Coatesville, USA. One of the coins belonging to the 1975 series, the coin was demonetized on January 2, 1998, repurposing it as a collectible item.
The 5 Piso coin has accurate specifications: made of nickel, with a weight of 22 grams, having a diameter of 36.5 mm and a thickness of 2.6 mm. Its circular design, even edge, and medal orientation (0°) are a testament to the deliberative process of Franklin Mint.
Elements
The obverse face shows the Philippine coat of arms together with the inscription "REPUBLIKA NG PILIPINAS" and the "5 PISO" denomination with the added FM mint mark. The reverse contains a left-side portrait of Ferdinand E. Marcos designed by Thomas James Ferrell. Inscriptions added are "ANG BAGONG LIPUNAN" (The New Society), "SETYEMBRE 21, 1972" (announcing the proclamation of Martial Law), and "PANGULONG FERDINAND E. MARCOS."
Scarcity and Market Value
The low production figures play a big role in this coin being collectible. It had only 4,792 Proof versions and 10,000 Special Uncirculated versions produced. This limited amount has ensured that its popularity among collectors has endured.
Today, the coin sells for an average price of around $4.70 USD in the collector's market, with prices varying depending on condition and collector demand. Numismatists have coined this as the Krause catalog number KM# 210.1 variety, characterized by the "REPUBLIKA NG PILIPINAS" motto in the coat of arms.
Historical Significance
It is part of the "Ang Bagong Lipunan" (The New Society) series of coins minted under Marcos and serves to commemorate September 21, 1972, the day Martial Law was proclaimed in the Philippines. These were highly controversial times in Philippine history.
There were a number of Philippine issues minted by the Franklin Mint during this period, but this 5 Piso coin is especially valuable to collectors interested in Philippine numismatics or Franklin Mint issues due to its limited production and historical relevance.
For collectors of Southeast Asian coins or politically oriented numismatists interested in such coins, the 1978 Franklin Mint 5 Piso is an affordable yet significant addition to any collection