4 Escudos - Fernando VI

Historical Context: The 4 Escudos of Fernando VI, issued 1755-1760 in Colombia (Viceroyalty of New Granada), marks a pivotal era. Fernando VI's reign (1746-1759) prioritized internal reforms and economic stability. As a major gold producer, New Granada's minting of these escudos was essential for colonial commerce, facilitating trade and remittances to Spain, asserting the Spanish Crown's direct authority and economic control.

Artistry: These coins exemplify the formal Spanish colonial numismatic style of the mid-18th century. Engravers uncredited, the design adheres to the Bourbon aesthetic of regal dignity. The obverse features a laureated, draped, and cuirassed bust of Fernando VI, symbolizing monarchical power, encircled by his Latin titulature. The reverse displays the crowned shield of Castile and León, often with the Bourbon escutcheon, flanked by the Pillars of Hercules, signifying Spain's dual-hemisphere dominion, with the motto "IN UTROQUE FELIX AUSPICE DEO."

Technical/Grading: Struck in .916 fine gold, weighing 13.5337 grams, these 4 Escudos exhibit typical colonial minting characteristics. Key high points for wear and strike assessment include the king's hair, nose, and shoulder drapery; reverse crown, lion's head, and castle turrets. Strike quality often varies, showing weakness in peripheral legends, minor off-centering, and planchet irregularities from manual production. Completeness of legends and central device