BRAZIL. Supposedly for Sao Paulo. Contemporary Counterfeit 960 Reis, 1816-B. Bahia Mint. EXTREMELY FINE.27.68 gms. Levy-SP.3; KM-307.1 (for basic type); LDMB-P401(for basic type); Gomes-JR.31.10 (for basic type); Fernando Bradao Correia Collection-Variety 13A1. Possibly struck on a silver plated bronze planchet to give more credibility contemporaneously. Appears to be struck over a Spanish Colonial Bust 8 Reales of indeterminate date and mint with traces of the host clearly visible on the obverse. Minor surface porosity on the obverse mentioned for accuracy. Rich mottled russet and parchment patina with argent color atop of the devices. A highly interesting facet of Brazilian numismatics sure to add depth to the next collection it enters. strongSOLD AS IS/NO RETURNS/strong. According to brilliant author David Andre Levy who wrote the definitive reference "The 960 reis Overstrikes", states that the "Supposed For Sao Paulo" issues were not considered to be counterfeit coins by the general public because they began their life as legitimate 8 Reales coins and once placed into circulation they were normally accepted. There are no official documents regarding whom, how and when these coins were produced, but they were most likely made by former mint employees, private engravers or even by official engravers performing extracurricular activities. Initially these issues resembled those of the Rio de Janeiro mint, but were somewhat cruder in style, more closely resembling those of Bahia mint. Gradually the mint mark changed from "R" to "B" and were produced until at least 1819. From the Kyle Ponterio Collection.With PCGS "Contemporary Counterfeit" ticket.
