4 Reales Provisional coinage

Uitgever El Salvador
Jaar 1828
Type Emergency coin
Waarde 4 Reales
Valuta Real (1828-1889)
Samenstelling Silver (.903)
Gewicht 9.4 g
Diameter 35 mm
Dikte
Vorm Round
Techniek Milled
Oriëntatie Medal alignment ↑↑
Graveur(s)
In omloop tot November 1835
Referentie(s) KM#8
Beschrijving voorzijde Smoking volcano with waves at base. Legend on outer circle and date at bottom.
Schrift voorzijde Latin
Opschrift voorzijde MONEDA • PROVISIONAL • 1828
(Translation: Provisional coin)
Beschrijving keerzijde Pillar with liberty cap at top, dividing value, within circle with legend around.
Schrift keerzijde Latin
Opschrift keerzijde POR LA LIBERTAD SALV R. 4.
(Translation: For the freedom of El Salvador 4 Reales)
Rand
Muntplaats
Oplage 1828 - KM#8.1 -
1828 F - KM#8.2 -
Numisquare-ID 7760644230
Aanvullende informatie

Historical Context: The 1828 El Salvador 4 Reales provisional coinage emerged during a turbulent period following Central American independence from Spain in 1821. As a constituent state within the nascent Federal Republic of Central America, El Salvador faced challenges establishing its economic sovereignty. This issue reflects the state's urgent need for circulating medium amidst federal coinage scarcity and regional political instability. It signifies El Salvador's assertion of local authority and economic autonomy during a critical phase of nation-building.

Artistry: While the specific engraver remains unrecorded, the design adheres to the early Republican stylistic school prevalent in post-colonial Central America. The obverse prominently features a "Tree of Liberty," a potent symbol of independence, encircled by "PROVINCIA DE EL SALVADOR." The reverse displays the iconic five volcanoes representing the states of the Federal Republic, framed by "REPUBLICA DEL CENTRO DE AMERICA" and the date. This blend of state-specific and federal imagery is characteristic of the era's provisional issues.

Technical/Grading: Struck in .903 fine silver, weighing 9.4 grams and measuring 35 millimeters, this provisional issue often exhibits variable strike quality. Key high-points for wear and grading include the topmost leaves and branches of the Tree of Liberty, the peaks and craters of the volcanoes, and the raised lettering. Due to rudimentary minting techniques, examples frequently show weak strikes, particularly on central devices or at the periphery, and may display planchet imperfections or crude edge finishes, common for this type.

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