Moneda de Cobre (part. Alberto Castillo)

"Moneda de Cobre" by Ricardo Tanturi y Su Orquesta Típica, featuring Alberto Castillo, is a poignant tango that delves into themes of identity, societal judgment, and the passage of time. The song paints a vivid picture of a woman of mixed heritage, born to a white father and a black mother. Her unique beauty is described through metaphors like "eyes of the sky" and "hair of black coal," highlighting her mixed racial background and the societal challenges she faces.

The narrative follows her life journey from a poor neighborhood to working in a cabaret, a common setting in tango songs that often symbolizes both glamour and hardship. The term "moneda de cobre" (copper coin) is a metaphor for her perceived worth in society. Once beautiful and full of potential, she is now seen as "old and sad," reflecting how society's perception of value can change over time. The song captures the harsh reality of how external beauty and social status can fade, leaving behind a sense of loss and nostalgia.

The lyrics also evoke a sense of longing and reminiscence. The narrator recalls her past beauty and grace, likening her to a butterfly that once soared but eventually fell. The imagery of her dancing the tango "like a bronze queen" at the Poliberge, a reference to a popular dance venue, underscores her former elegance and the cultural significance of tango as an expression of identity and emotion. Through its rich storytelling and emotive language, "Moneda de Cobre" offers a reflection on the fleeting nature of beauty and the enduring impact of societal judgments.