Colombia 10 centavo Leprosarium Coinage Lazareto KM-L3 MS63 PCGS brass coin 1901

The Colombia 10 Centavos 1901 Lazareto coin is a rare and historically significant issue from the Leprosarium Coinage of Bogotá, created exclusively for internal circulation within Colombia’s leprosy settlements. These coins represent a unique chapter in medical, social, and numismatic history, produced to limit contact between patients and the general population.

The obverse displays a bold circular composition with the inscription “DIEZ CENTAVOS” along the upper rim and “BOGOTÁ” at the bottom. At the center appears a large numeral “10”, cleanly engraved and surrounded by ample open field. The date 1901 is positioned near the lower edge, partially integrated into the design. The lettering is crisp and evenly spaced, framed by a raised rim that preserves the coin’s structure.

The reverse features the inscription “REPÚBLICA DE COLOMBIA” around the perimeter. In the center is the word “LAZARETO”, enclosed within a distinctive symmetrical ornamental design formed by curved lines resembling stylized brackets or scrolls. Small rosette-like floral symbols appear on both sides, adding balance and subtle decoration to the otherwise utilitarian layout.

Struck in brass and certified MS63 by PCGS, this example shows strong original surfaces, warm golden-brown toning, and minimal contact marks. A highly collectible Lazareto issue, prized for its rarity, condition, and powerful historical context.

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