2 Escudos - Felipe IV

Historical Context: This 2 Escudos coin was issued under Felipe IV (Philip IV of Spain) from 1622 to 1655, a period of Spanish colonial power's peak and growing imperial strain. As King, Felipe IV relied heavily on immense gold wealth from the Viceroyalty of New Granada (Colombia). These escudos were critical for colonial administration, facilitating internal trade, and funding Spain's European conflicts, symbolizing the vital economic link between the Old and New Worlds.

Artistry: The coin's design reflects standard Spanish colonial numismatic tradition, emphasizing symbolic function over individual artistic expression. Engravers at Santa Fe de Bogotá are largely unknown; the style is a simplified Spanish Baroque. The ob