Mexico: Charles III gold Contemporary Counterfeit 8 Escudos 1770 Mo-FM AU (Tooled), ...

Description

Intriguing "Indigenous" Imitation 8 Escudos

Charles III gold Contemporary Counterfeit 8 Escudos 1770 Mo-FM AU (Tooled), Onza-Unl. 37mm. 28.83gm. A highly unusual contemporary imitation, characterized by its peculiar style, and thin, illiterate lettering with pronounced serifs. Interestingly pairing a later bust style with an earlier date that should correspond to Charles' "Rat Nose" coinage (cf. Cal-Types 194 and 195), it seems quite likely that this piece may represent an indigenous imitation. Indeed, it has been suggested that native populations had been conscripted as mint workers since the first coins were introduced at the Mexico City mint. To the best of our knowledge, only one other imitation of this mint-date has come to auction in recent decades--part of the Huntington Collection (HSA 1001.1.10987, Morton & Eden Auction 61, March 2013, Lot 278)--showing F-like shapes throughout the legends, though seemingly copying the "Rat Nose" obverse with a continuous obverse legend unbroken by the bust. That piece was also holed, suggesting possible use as personal adornment. Certainly of immense interest, and a coin which stands distinguished from the lion's share of contemporary counterfeit 8 Escudos.

Metal: Gold

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