Catalog
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| Issuer | Guatemala |
|---|---|
| Year | 1839 |
| Type | Log in to see details |
| Value | Log in to see details |
| Currency | Real (1733-1859) |
| Composition | Log in to see details |
| Weight | Log in to see details |
| Diameter | Log in to see details |
| Thickness | Log in to see details |
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| Technique | Log in to see details |
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| Engraver(s) | Log in to see details |
| In circulation to | Log in to see details |
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| Obverse description | Log in to see details |
|---|---|
| Obverse script | Latin |
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| Reverse description | Log in to see details |
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| Reverse lettering | Log in to see details |
| Edge | Plain |
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| Additional information |
In 1839, newly independent Guatemala faced a chronic shortage of reliable circulating silver. Rather than strike fresh coinage — an expensive undertaking for a cash-strapped republic — authorities applied a countermark to existing 8 Reales, authenticating foreign and colonial pieces for continued domestic use. The Type II countermark distinguishes itself from the earlier Type I by a revised punch design, a detail that has generated considerable specialist debate over sequencing and authorization.
Host coins vary widely in origin, which directly affects collector valuation. A well-documented host is half the battle with this type.