COLOMBIA. Falsa Época. Sub-Standard Purity Contemporary Counterfeit 8 Escudos, 1818-P FM. Uncertain Local Mint "Popayan", Assayer FM. Ferdinand VII. NEAR EXTREMELY FINE.27.06 gms. cf.Onza-1530 (dated 1812, same reverse die); cf.Cal-Type 21 (for basic type);cf.KM-66.2 (for basic type). Contemporary counterfeit 8 Escudos struck in imitation of a 1818-P FM Colombia 8 Escudos of Ferdinand VII with the bust of Charles IV. The legends are Obverse: ".FERDND.VII.D.C. HISP.ET IND.R. 1818."; Reverse: ".IN.UTROQ.FELIX..AUSPICE.DEO. P..F.M". The style of the bust is somewhat cartoonish and appears to be a much more welcoming facial expression then what is encountered on legitimate issues. The style of the legends is not quite right being off with somewhat haphazard and irregular spacing and the use of a broken "C" for a "G" in "D.G.". The design features of the reverse, most notably the "X" in "FELIX" has been re-cut and the "M" of the assayers letters along with other aspects of the devices show degradation indicative of prolonged use. A handsome and evenly worn example displaying attractive patination from a pale yellow gold color on the high points, lightly toned open areas with soft muted luster and a nice combination of sunset hues and butterscotch in the peripherals and parts of the protected areas. A wholesome and original survivors with good eye appeal certain to pique the interest of the specialist.The linking of the reverse die to the 1819-P FM, also in this sale, and the example plated in the Onza Main book, # 1530, but with a different obverse dies is suggestive of significant output outside of the scope of the issuing authority. From the John Kraljevich Collection of Contemporary Circulating Forgeries.
