What is a Balboa currency?

Balboas are issued only in coin form and are subdivided into 100 centésimos. The money's name honors Vasco Núñez de Balboa, the Spanish explorer, conquistador, and founder of the first European settlement in Panama in 1510. The Panamanian balboa (PAB) is the official currency of the Republic of Panama.

What is a Balboa coin?

The Balboa coins have various designs and motifs that reflect the historical significance and national symbols of Panama, such as the bust of Vasco Núñez de Balboa, the namesake of the currency, on the obverse of the 1 Balboa coin, and the coat of arms of Panama on the reverse.

Why is Panama's currency called Balboa?

The currency is named after Vasco Núñez de Balboa, the Spanish explorer, conquistador, and founder of the first European settlement in Panama. The Panamanian balboa was first introduced in 1904, replacing the Colombian peso, following Panama’s independence from Colombia.