Jamaica: British Colony. George II gold Counterstamped 8 Escudos (Doubloon) ND (c. 1773) XF45 NGC,...
Description
Ex. Brand Counterstamped Jamaican Doubloon
British Colony. George II gold Counterstamped 8 Escudos
(Doubloon) ND (c. 1773) XF45 NGC, KM12.2 (this coin), Prid-3,
Gordon-3a (this coin). Center plug countermarked with crocodile (or
alligator, as noted on slab) above GC initials on Peru gold Cob 8
Escudos 174X. 26.87gm. 415.1 troy grains. One of the most
sought-after types in the Jamaican counterstamped series, referred
to across references as a Private Token, Doubloon, or 8 Escudos.
Related to the Act of December 31, 1772 (though sometimes
referenced as the Act of 1773), which redeemed all lightweight gold
coins in circulation and stipulated a weight of 416 troy grains for
doubloons. Presumably, this Cob was plugged up to full weight by
George Clinton (GC), an active goldsmith during the 1770s and
1780s. Such examples are exceedingly rare, with only three recorded
pieces known to our firm, this bearing the impressive and desirable
Ex. Brand pedigree. The host coin here was double struck and
somewhat blundered the devices, but the countermarks are clear. The
smooth reverse of the plug displays faint graffiti that contributes
to the intrigue at hand. Perhaps the most impressive Jamaican
counterstamped piece in this sale.Ex. Heritage Auction 3012 (January 2011, Lot 24955); Noonans Auction B7 (September 2010, Lot 17); Virgil Brand Collection, Part IX (Sotheby's Auction, June 1985, Lot 366); Spink Auction (February 1921)
Metal: Gold
Diameter: 28mm
Weight: 26.88g
Estimate: $40,000 - $50,000.
Auction Info
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Additional Location Info:
Heritage Auctions
2801 W. Airport Freeway
Dallas, TX 75261
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