COLOMBIA. Falsa Época. Sub-Standard Purity Contemporary Counterfeit 8 Escudos, 1820-NR JJ. Uncertain Local Mint "Nuevo Reino", Assayer JJ. Ferdinand VII. EXTREMELY FINE.26.86 gms. Onza-1554 (same dies) & 1547 (same reverse die); cf.Cal-Type 24 (for basic type); cf.KM-66.1 (for basic type). Contemporary counterfeit 8 Escudos struck in imitation of a 1820-NR JF Colombia 8 Escudos of Ferdinand VII with the bust of Charles IV. The legends are Obverse: "FERDND.VII.D.G. HISP.ET IND.R. .1820."; Reverse: ".IN.UNTROQ.FELIX..AUSPICE.DEO. NR.J.J". The style of the bust is a bit crude and not very well defined, but with correct legends that exhibit several re-cut letters. The reverse exhibits somewhat larger letters then what is encountered on legitimate issues with the "X" of "FELIX" showing signs of being re-cut, but in a different manner to the 1818-P FM and 1819-P FM, both in the sale. Somewhat of a weak central strike on the reverse in similar fashion to legitimate products of the time and a couple of well placed minor planchet defects are noted on the reverse mentioned for accuracy. A handsomely toned survivor displaying nice even patination on the obverse with rich orange peel tone in the peripherals. The reverse exhibits a light golden hue atop of the central devices accentuated by golden-honey color in the open fields and sunset tones amongst the devices and the protected areas. An attractive and well preserved survivor certain be a welcome addition to the next collection it enters.Another example where the linking of dies to other pieces of different dates is suggestive of skillful employment and significant production runs outside the scope of the official issuing authority. From the John Kraljevich Collection of Contemporary Circulating Forgeries.
