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The 1798 Mexico 8 Reales coin was struck during the reign of Charles IV of Spain and forms part of the famous Spanish colonial silver coinage produced in New Spain, centred in present-day Mexico. The 8 Reales denomination was the most important silver trade coin of its time and circulated widely throughout Europe, the Americas, and Asia.
The obverse features a right-facing portrait of King Charles IV with the inscription "CAROLUS IIII DEI GRATIA", translating to Charles IV by the Grace of God. This portrait style, often called the "bust type", replaced the earlier pillar design and became the standard format for Spanish colonial silver coinage in the late 18th century.
The reverse displays the crowned Spanish coat of arms of the Bourbon monarchy, flanked by the mintmark and assayer's initials, along with the denomination "8R". The surrounding legend "HISPAN ET IND REX" translates to King of Spain and the Indies, reflecting Spain's vast colonial empire across the Americas and beyond.
The 8 Reales, often referred to as the "Spanish Dollar" or "Piece of Eight," became the first truly global currency. It was widely accepted in international trade and even served as the model for later currencies such as the United States dollar.
Coins struck in Mexico were particularly respected for their consistent weight and high silver purity, making them a cornerstone of global commerce during the late 18th and early 19th centuries. Today, these historic silver coins remain highly desirable among collectors of world and colonial coinage.
Country: Mexico (Spanish Colonial New Spain)
Ruler: Charles IV
Year: 1798
Denomination: 8 Reales
Catalogue: KM#106
Composition: Silver (.903 fine)
Weight: approx. 27.07 g
Diameter: approx. 3840 mm
Condition - G (Holed)
(MB 20)
