1603-1612 Potosi Bolivia 8 Reales MS-62 Finest Known From The Kempen Hoard!

1603-12 Potosi 8 reales

Item #CC-0190 | 1603-1612 Potosi 8 Reales MS-62 Finest Known!
Mint: Potosi
Assayer: R for “Baltasar Ramos Leceta”
Ruler/Period: King Philip III
Grade: MS-62
Weight: 27.33 Grams

For details on this coin from NGC, click on the serial number here: 2876570-003

Description: This stunning example was recovered among a large hoard of coins known as the “Kempen Hoard”.  With brilliant original luster, strong strike, and beautiful details, this cob is a choice example for any collector.

The Kempen treasure is one of the largest gold and silver coin treasures found in the Netherlands. It was discovered by a Dutch treasure hunter using a metal detector.  Just like the Serooskerke find in 1966 and the Randwijk find in 1987, the Kempen Hoard is an assemblage of an impressive variety of currencies. Spain, England and the Netherlands are the most strongly represented, but specimens of Portugal, France, the Spanish possessions in South America, the German states, the Italian states and Hungary are also present.

The find gives a good picture of the flourishing international connections and trade between the 16th and 17th century powers. The most recent coin in the find was a Dutch coin dated 1616, which gives some indication of about the time when the treasure was buried. Given the high monetary value of the find, the original owner was most likely a wealthy merchant. In 1621 the Twelve Years’ Truce ended and hostilities between Spain and the rebellious Netherlands resumed. A wealthy merchant probably hid this coin along with his other possessions to protect them!

This specimen is simply one of the finest 8 Reales from the New World minted in Potosi, Bolivia. This finest known example is nothing short of extraordinary. With nice tone around the devices of this piece, a strong strike across the obverse, and how well centered it is, this is a real gem of a silver cob. The details on the shield are so crisp you can make out even the smallest of details. This is the ultimate coin for the ultimate collector of Spanish Colonial and Spanish coins.

$10,500.00