Mexico: Augustin Iturbide gold 8 Escudos 1822 Mo-JM AU58 NGC,...

Description

Augustin Iturbide gold 8 Escudos 1822 Mo-JM AU58 NGC, Mexico City mint, KM313.1, Onza-1778. A beautifully preserved coin, with most attractive toning and only minimal friction evidence on the higher points. The strike is a tad soft on the center of the reverse, as often seen on this issue, but nevertheless a decidedly choice example. Engraved by Jose Torreblanca, the dies for the Iturbide coinage are surprisingly numerous for coinages issued only in two calendar years. The dies were commissioned to this relatively inexperienced artist by main engraver Francisco Gordillo, who preferred him over the arguably more talented Jose Guerrero for reasons of personal animosity. As a result, the coinage designs for the issues of Iturbide were subject to profuse criticism, resulting in many successive attempts to improve the dies. In particular, the present type was chastised due to the weak eagle depicted on the reverse. Almost 200 years later, it now appears charming to the eye of the cataloger, and only adds to the appeal of this issue. A famous and popular type very desirable in this lofty quality. As such, the present example should attract spirited bidding activity.

Metal: Gold
Diameter: 38mm
Weight: 27.0674g
AGW: 0.7614oz

More information about Mexican Coins. See also: Mexico World Coin Nationality.

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