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8 Reales Type II Counter-mark
| Issuer | Guatemala |
|---|---|
| Year | 1839 |
| Type | Log in to see details |
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| Composition | Log in to see details |
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| Diameter | Log in to see details |
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| Technique | Countermarked, Hammered (cob) |
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| Obverse description | Log in to see details |
|---|---|
| Obverse script | Latin |
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| Reverse description | Reverse of the hammered cob host coin displaying a large bold cross pattée in high relief, with the characteristic castles and lions of the Spanish royal arms partially visible in the quadrants between the arms of the cross. The flan is irregular and clipped in the typical macuquina fashion, with the design struck off-centre and only partially complete due to the nature of cob coinage production. A green-patinated circular loop or ring is affixed at the lower field, likely a later addition for suspension purposes. The surface shows extensive wear, natural silver patina, and verdigris consistent with a coin of considerable age and circulation. |
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| Additional information |
Guatemala's counter-marking program of the late 1830s was a direct response to the monetary chaos following Central American federation collapse. Existing 8 reales — often Spanish colonial or Mexican republic issues — were officially stamped to authenticate them for continued circulation under the new Guatemalan state. The Type II counter-mark distinguishes itself from the earlier Type I by its execution and authenticating punch design, though both served identical fiscal purposes during the same fractious period.
Attribution can be complicated by the host coin beneath the stamp, which varies considerably and affects collector valuation independently of the counter-mark itself.