SPANISH COLONIAL. Gold Oblong Finger Bar, ND (ca. 1622). Philip IV. EXTREMELY FINE.Weight: 1,078 gms. (34.66 oz); Diameter: 245.31 x 28.37 x 12.17 mm.; AGW: 32.13 oz. Rectangular ingot with seven royal tax stamps spaced across face, five purity stamps "XXII" and "o" (representing 22-1/4 Karats), foundry stamp "SARGOSA/PECARTA" to right; Reverse: "A85-27" engraved to left. This wholesome and original looking large-size ingot displays a light attractive golden tone with faint sunset hued patina in the protected areas. Evidence of sea coral is noticed to the right on all sides as well as in several of the crevasses. Close inspection reveals some light scratches, "IIXX", near the cut end. Based on the orientation of the ingot, the scratched numerals are probably inverted and meant to represent the purity of "XXII". Altogether, an impressive relic that represents the awesome creation of wealth that was being mined in Spains colonial territories for the intended eventual benefit of the motherland.
