MEXICO. 8 Escudos, 1747-Mo MF. Mexico City Mint. Ferdinand VI. NGC EF-45. Fr-13; KM-149; Cal-Type 132 # 750; Cayon-10841 (plate coin); Grove-1137; Onza-596 (plate coin). A RARE and popular one-year type "Caveman" bust. Imaginary bust design struck before the Madrid Mint delivered definitive standard portrait punches of the new monarch. Armored bust right, legend around; Reverse: Small crowned shield in the Collar of the Golden Fleece flanked by Assayers initials and *8*. The Latin legend "INITIUM SAPIENTIAE TIMOR DOMINI" (Beginning of Wisdom is Fear of the Lord), is the same as that employed by the preceding King, Philip V. This type represents an early occurrence of a Spanish Colonial mint resorting to emergency measures in order to assure adequate coinage production in the absence of an approved design. A nicely preserved and original looking survivor of this ever popular type exhibiting an even strike with signs of handling consistent for the grade. The peripheries boast plenty of remaining luster coupled with sunset hued patina in the protected areas offering a pleasing appearance sure to excited collectors of all levels. From the Las Colinas Collection.
