Tuesday, August 26, 2008

Mexico Eight Reales 1818

This silver eight Reales struck in Mexico in the name of Spanish King Ferdinand VII is an example of the famous "pieces of eight". These were probably the most widely accepted international currency in the world at this time, and they were struck in many parts of the South American continent. They were valued for their silver content and cosistency in weight and purity. It is also believed that the ribbons around the pillars were inspiration for the $ symbol.


Wednesday, August 13, 2008

Australia 1948 Half Penny double struck



While Australian mistrikes as a rule are quite scarce, it's very rare to come across such a clear specimen of double striking, with the second strike about 20% off centre.

Wednesday, August 6, 2008

Cuba One Peso 1915

This time we have a well worn Cuban one peso coin dated 1915. Like many large silver dollar sized coins of this era issued in the Americas, it has it's weight and fineness incorporated into the design.