U.S. Philippine Coins
The U.S. Philippine Coins were minted from 1903 to 1945/46, and these coins are commonly called "USPI". The minting of these coins began shortly after the end of the Philippine-American war (1899-1902).
In 1903, the U.S. government approved the "Philippine Coinage Act" to replace the existing monetary system in the Philippines and adopt the Gold Standard like in the U.S. With the new act, the U.S. minted seven denominations to be the new coins of the Philippines, a 1/2C (aka "KUSING"), 1C, 5C, 10C, 20C, 50C, and 1P. Minted in silver are the coins starting from 10C. The minting of these coins lasted until 1936.
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In 1937, under the Commonwealth of the Philippines, the U.S. and the Philippines minted a new set of coins 1C, 5C, 10C, 20C, and 50C. Minted in silver are the coins starting from 10C, similar to the previous series. In terms of design, the coat of arms of the Philippine Commonwealth replaced the American eagle on the reverse of the coins.
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What's unique about these USPI coins is that they contain the names of two countries.
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The 1903–1936 US-Philippine Islands (USPI) coins mark a significant period in Philippine numismatic history, reflecting the transition from Spanish colonial rule to American sovereignty following the Spanish-American War of 1898. Under the United States’ governance, the Philippines underwent a modernization of its currency system, with the introduction of new coinage that would circulate alongside Spanish-era coins for several years.
The 1937–1945 U.S. Philippine Coins represent a critical period in Philippine numismatic history, during which the country was under American sovereignty. These coins were issued in preparation for the Philippines' eventual independence and were struck in various denominations to meet the growing needs of the local economy during the interwar years and World War II.
Establishment of the Philippine Assembly (1907) - The creation of the Philippine Assembly allowed Filipinos to have a voice in the legislative process, marking a significant step toward self-governance.
The Philippine Bill of 1902 - This bill guaranteed civil rights and introduced a framework for governance that was more inclusive of Filipinos, advancing their political and social rights​.
Economic Growth and Industrialization - American policies also helped stimulate the Philippine economy through the establishment of new industries and the promotion of agricultural products such as hemp and sugar.
Construction of Infrastructure - The American administration invested heavily in infrastructure, including roads, bridges, and railroads, which facilitated economic growth and improved communication across the archipelago​.
Public Education System - The American colonial government established a widespread public education system, bringing access to education to millions of Filipinos and fostering a more literate population​.
Expansion of Public Health Services: The introduction of public health programs helped reduce disease and improve overall public health, including widespread vaccination campaigns and better sanitation infrastructure​
Development of the Philippine Commonwealth (1935): The establishment of the Philippine Commonwealth, with Manuel Quezon as its president, marked the first self-governed Filipino administration. This period saw significant improvements in education, health, and infrastructure as the country moved closer to full independence​.