Counterfeit 10-Piso and 5-Piso BSP Series Coins

MEMORANDUM NO. M-2006-021

To:  All Banks

Subject : Counterfeit 10-Piso and 5-Piso BSP Series Coins

The Cash Department has recently received and confiscated counterfeit 10-piso and 5-piso coins.  Please be guided by the following distinguishing characteristics of these counterfeit coins:

A. 10-piso Coins

Features

Description

1. Design -

Obverse: Profiles of A. Mabini and A. Bonifacio

Bigger than the genuine; low relief

Reverse: Logo of BSP

Low relief; off center

2.  Letterings -

Irregular; low relief

3. Mint Mark -

Defective; low relief

4. Rim -

Obverse:

Elevated; with low relief

Reverse:

Elevated; with sharp edge and intermittent reedings

5. Metallic Grain -

Coarse; with bubbles

6. Inner Core -

Pale yellow or yellow brass in color

7.  Other characteristics -

Magnetic

B. 5-piso Coins

Features

Description

1. Design -

Obverse: Profile of E. Aguinaldo

Details of the profile are low relief

Reverse: Logo of BSP 12-scallop border design

Low relief Touches the rim

2.  Letterings -

Wider than the genuine; low relief

3. Mint Mark -

Not defined; low relief

4. Rim -

Elevated but of low relief; wider than the genuine

5. Diameter and Thickness -

Smaller than the genuine

6. Metallic Grain -

Coarse; with bubbles

7. Color -

Dark yellow

WHAT TO DO IN CASE YOU TAKE HOLD OF COUNTERFEIT COINS

Kindly examine all coins received as you may be holding a counterfeit.  In this case, immediately communicate with the Currency Analysis and Redemption Sub-Group or the Investigation Sub-Group, Cash Department, Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas at telephone numbers 524-27-77; 523-98-06; 524-70-11 locals 2296 and 2388, or the nearest Bangko Sentral Regional Office/Branch.

AMANDO M. TETANGCO, JR. Governor