L K. writes:Â Requesting info on a coin which reads “Remember the Maine” on one side and “Cuba Shall be Free”.
The medal that you describe is one of many pro-Republic items that were made to promote victory in the Spanish American War and create a Free Cuba. These items include the Souvenir Pesos of 1897 and 1898 and everyday items like cigarette lighters engraved with a similar legend as above. It seems that collectors of Cuban coins don’t limit themselves to just coins. Cigar labels, paper money, postcards, steam ship menus, advertisements, political propaganda and hand written books by famous Cuban writers, painters and poets all seem to be included. These items always have a ready market in places where Cuba collectors gather.
As far as value, I’ve seen the above token in brass and in nickel. They usually bring between $10 and $20.
