1607-17 Mexico 8 Reales NGC AU Details
Item #CC-0858 | 1607-17 Mexico 8 Reales NGC AU Details
Mint: Mexico City
Assayer: F
Ruler/Period: King Philip III
Grade: AU Details
For details and population on this coin from NGC, click on the serial number here: 8217394-019
Description: One of our personal favorite coins from the Mexico mint are the pieces struck in the first 20 years of the 17th century. The large planchets, boldly struck design, and boasting very large florenzada crosses on the reverse really set these coins apart. Examples like this coin were found on shipwrecks like the Atocha and Santa Margarita, as well as the Lucayan Beach treasure. This example is likely a land find that was preserved in such great condition. A light cleaning had been done at some point, but over all this coin is all day a high grade AU specimen. A real rarity!
Beginning in the early 16th century, the Spanish Empire emerged as the world’s dominant global power, fueled by vast silver and gold resources from the Americas. To manage this wealth, Spain established major colonial mints, starting with the Mexico City Mint in 1535, followed by others such as Lima and Potosí. Early Spanish coins were hand-struck silver cobs, including the famous 8 reales, which became the first truly global currency, circulating throughout Europe, the Americas, Africa, and Asia. By the late 17th and 18th centuries, Spain transitioned to milled coinage with more precise designs to combat fraud and debasement. Spanish imperial coinage not only financed wars and trade but also shaped the foundations of the modern global monetary system.
In stock
$950.00
