Moneda de cobre by Horacio Sanguinetti

Moneda de cobre is a Tango written by Horacio Sanguinetti and composed by Carlos Viván.

Story behind the Tango Moneda de cobre

The lyrics of “Moneda de cobre” tell the poignant story of a woman of mixed race, whose life transitions from a seemingly hopeful youth with natural beauty, to a troubled adulthood marred by degradation and societal rejection. Born to a blond, alcoholic father and a black mother with “labios malvón” (vivid, perhaps unusually colored lips), the protagonist’s exotic beauty and humble origins frame her challenging journey. Her life, full of potential, ultimately leads her into a cabaret by the age of twenty, signaling a fall from grace. The title “Moneda de cobre” or “Copper Coin,” metaphorically depicts her as something that once held value but has since been tarnished and devalued over time.

Symbolism of Moneda de cobre

The symbolism in “Moneda de cobre” is deeply entrenched in the portrayal of the protagonist’s life journey. Her mixed heritage and upbringing in a poor neighborhood initially set a hopeful tone with phrases like “ojos de cielo” (eyes of the sky) which contrasts sharply with the harsh reality of her adult life, marked by the term “moneda de fango” (coin of mud), symbolizing her fall into disrepute and her diminished social value. The repeated references to her transformation from a lively, beautiful young woman to a “sad and old” one who holds little value evokes a deep sense of tragedy and societal critique. The dance of tango itself, historically a dance of deep emotion and sensuality, becomes a metaphor for the protagonist’s own dance through life’s highs and lows.

Moneda de cobre in Historic Context

“Moneda de cobre” was penned and recorded in 1942, a period marked by notable social transitions in Argentina. The era was characterized by a move from traditional rural life to more urban settings, dramatized by the migration of lower socioeconomic groups into urban barrios, similar to the scenario described in the tango. This was a time when societal disparities were stark, and the fate of individuals often hinged on heritage and socioeconomic status—themes poignantly reflected in the protagonist’s journey. The song captures the essence of a society grappling with rapid change and the displacement of individuals caught in the upheaval.

Horacio Sanguinetti

Horacio Sanguinetti, the lyricist of “Moneda de cobre,” was a notable figure in the Argentine tango scene, known for his deeply evocative lyrics that often explored themes of love, sorrow, and societal issues.