WEST INDIES. Double Island Countermark. Martinique-Tortola. Shilling (1/8 Dollar), ND (ca. 1805-24). VERY FINE.2.60 gms. KM-16(for "TIRTILA" basic type), KM-26(for Martinique basic edge cut type); Prid-14(for "TIRTILA" basic denomination), Prid-1(for "Martinique" basic edge cut type). Type III countermark, TIRTILA. Initial cut 1/4 Dollar with crenelated edge indicates mutilation in Martinique by local ordinance of 1st September 1797. Later cut down to 1/8 Dollar and later still countermarked for use in Tortola ca. 1805-24. All on a cut 1/8 Spanish colonial 8 Reales. The interesting part about this piece is that the colonial edge was shaved off before the application of the Tortola countermark based the fact that when the countermark was applied the force from the strike pushed the edge out creating a bulge. An interesting piece sure to add depth any collection of West Indies. Countermark deeply impressed with attractive soft grey tone. Host coin nearly worn slick, Countermark
