CUBA. 20 Pesos, 1915. Philadelphia Mint. NGC MS-61. KM-21; Fr-1. Widely sought as the largest gold denomination emanating from Cuba, this example presents eye-catching orange-gold color with a few of the customary marks in front of Jose Martis face that preclude a finer grade.One of the most important and influential figures in Cuban history, Jose Marti was born in 1853 in Havana. During his rather brief life, he worked tirelessly for the cause of liberty, both in writing and in rallying, as he traveled to Latin America and the United States in order to promote the ideals of Cuban independence from Spain. His role in the movement became even greater following his death in 1895, when he died in military action at the Battle of Dos Rios. On account of his popularity and the manner in which he endeared himself to the community, his death brought even those who had been reluctant of conflict into the fold. One of his poems became adapted into the definitive patriotic song of the new nation, and Marti himself became a veritable patron saint, with his imagery continuing to play a role two decades later-as can be seen upon the Cuban coinage at the time.</em> From the Oro del Nuevo Mundo Collection.
