1621-1656 Potosi Bolivia 8 Reales From The Concepción Shipwreck

Item #CC-0179 | 1621-1656 Potosi Bolivia 8 Reales (From the Concepción Shipwreck)
Mint: Potosi, Bolivia
Assayer: Appears to be a “V” for Geronimo Velázquez
Ruler/Period: King Philip IV (1605-1665)
Grade: Uncertified
Weight: 27.02 Grams

Description: This well-preserved Spanish Colonial “piece of eight” was recovered from the Nuestra Señora De La Pura Y Limpia Concepción that sunk in 1641 off the coast of Hispaniola (now known as the Dominican Republic). The Concepción was an Admiral’s ship that led a flotilla of 30 ships that carried tons of silver and gold from the New World destined for Spain. The silver used to mint this coin came from the ‘silver mountain’ of Potosi in Bolivia and was intended to finance Spain’s armies and armadas.

“Pieces of eight” were the world’s first global currency. They were used across the vast Spanish Empire, stretching from South America to the Philippines, but were used outside the empire as well. In 1600, one coin would have been worth the equivalent of a modern £50 note. The front of the coin is decorated with the coat of arms of the Habsburgs, the rulers of Spain and the most powerful family in Europe.

This coin exhibits a nicely centered and defined shield and crown, a boldly struck “P” for Potosi, and nicely centered Jerusalem cross on the reverse. The surfaces display some saltwater effects that one would expect from a coin that was submerged underwater for over 330 years. This coin comes complete with its certificate of authenticity and 2×2 flip. Overall, this is a very nice historically significant coin that will compliment any Spanish Colonial shipwreck coin collection.

This coin comes with an embossed stamped certificate of authenticity dated November 1, 1979.

$1,500.00