GUATEMALA. Guatemala - Mexico. 8 Reales, ND (ca. 1839-40). PCGS Genuine--Holed, VF Details Gold Shield; Countermark: EF Details.KM-not listed; Jovel-Type III countermark (host not listed). Type II Countermark; sun over mountains within circular boarder. Issued by decree of 2 May 1839 through 20 November 1840. strongEXTREMELY /strongstrongRARE/strong host coin for this issue. On a 1686-oML Mexico Cob 8 Reales of the Charles II. Countermark deeply impressed and clear with complete and bold details. The host coin exhibits a bold full four digit date, decent shield and cross with partial legends on both sides. Holed at 6 oclock on the obverse, pierced from the reverse. Despite its shortcomings, a richly toned example displaying attractive slate patina with a lovely iridescent sheen that pops out when tilted in the light. The host coin itself is very rare in its own right being a fully dated Mexican cob of Charles II. With the exception of Mexican cobs dated 1679-82, most of which are sea salvaged recovered from the shipwreck of the Johanna, fully dated cobs of Charles II are extremely rare. Not to mention that the present example survived for over 150 years escaping the melt and is a relatively handsome piece. It is also interesting to note that the countermarking action for cobs did not cease once milled coins began to be marked. In fact on many examples one can link the countermarks back and fourth between cobs and milled coinage. It appears that once the hinged dies were introduced cobs were no longer being authorized as no known examples bear the bi-facial countermark (Type IV), though there does exist three examples of cobs that bare only the reverse countermark of the Type III, sun superimposed on bow, arrow and quiver, such as the 1767 Bolivia cob 8 Reales also in this sale.From the Kyle Ponterio Collection.Ex: Richard Stuart Collection.Ex: Spink-America Auction December 5, 1995 Lot # 106 "The Pablo Gerber Sr. Collection".
