2 Bit Countermark

Emisor Barbados
Año 1718
Tipo Emergency coin
Valor 2 Bits (3⁄40)
Moneda Pound sterling (1627-1970)
Composición Silver (.833)
Peso 5.55 g
Diámetro
Grosor
Forma Round
Técnica Countermarked
Orientación
Grabador(es)
En circulación hasta
Referencia(s)
Descripción del anverso Countermarked Spanish 2 Réales displaying lions and castles.
Escritura del anverso Latin
Leyenda del anverso I
Descripción del reverso Spanish 2 Réales displaying coat of arms.
Escritura del reverso Latin
Leyenda del reverso
Canto
Casa de moneda
Tirada 1718 - -
ID de Numisquare 4286052450
Información adicional

Historical Context: The 1718 Barbados 2 Bit Countermark emerged under King George I, amidst acute currency shortage in British West Indies colonies. Barbados, a vital sugar producer, urgently required coinage for trade. Lacking a mint, the island utilized diverse foreign silver, predominantly Spanish-American reales. This '2 Bit' countermark was a crucial government initiative, validating foreign coins for local circulation, assigning a fixed value, and preventing their export, thus stabilizing the colonial economy.

Artistry: The 'artistry' of this countermark is purely functional; no specific engraver is attributed. The punch was a utilitarian tool. Its design typically features a simple numerical '2' or 'II,' often with an

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