1650 Potosi 3.75 Reales “Crown L” NGC VF Details – Capitana Shipwreck
Item #CC-0879 | 1650 Potosi 3.75 Reales “Crown L” NGC VF Details – Capitana Shipwreck
Mint: Potosi, Bolivia
Assayer: O – Juan Rodríguez de Rodas
Ruler/Period: King Philip IV
Grade: VF Details
For details and population on this coin from NGC, click on the serial number here: 8434870-008
Description: A very attractive example of a 3.75 reales from the Potosi mint in Bolivia! This coin has a well struck counter stamp, a devaluation mark of a Crowned L, that denotes this coin was part of the Potosi scandal at the mint. The stamp declares the coin is worth only 3.75 reales, with many examples like this found on the Capitana shipwreck in the Caribbean. The coin has wonderful details, with a large planchet, full shield and cross, and the mint/assayers marks visible as well. The label says it is 1651-52, but a full date of 1650 can be seen below the counter stamp!
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
$1,650.00
