COSTA RICA. Costa Rica - Bolivia. 8 Reales, ND (1841). San Jose Mint. NGC VG-08; Countermark: VF Standard. KM-Unlisted; Segura-Pg. 16 (for type); Guardian-Pg. 62/3, Type VI; ANS-1941.161.1. Weight: 25.69 gms. Type I Countermark. Issued by decree of 19 November 1841. Plug removed from obverse right of the bust, double 6-pointed star within circle on Bolivars neck; Reverse: Test punch at 12 oclock between "Republica" and "Boliviana". All on an 1831-PTS JL Bolivian 8 Soles. This <strong>EXTREMELY RARE</strong> host type seldom appears on the market. We have only four recorded examples, three from public auctions since 2009 and one contained in the American Numismatic Society collection where they acquired it in 1941. The plug and 6-pointed star are always on the obverse and the test punch is always placed at 12 oclock on the reverse. The example in the ANS collection differs slightly missing the test punch on the reverse somewhat questioning its legitimacy, though other characteristics seem to align with the three examples seen at auction. This well-worn survivor exhibits relatively smooth surfaces with signs of handling consistent for the grade. Displaying light attractive mottled gray patina with areas of richer coloration and a slight iridescent sheen this handsome example is pleasing to the eye offering much originality. The test punch and removal of the plug of silver is standard for this issue. To verify that the coins were in fact silver they tested them first with the punch mark in the legend. They then proceeded to remove the plug of silver and then apply the double six-pointed star countermark. According to sources the removal of the plug of silver was done to pay for the countermarking of these coins. While this cataloger believes this to be true, I also believe that regardless of denomination they were all mutilated in a similar fashion with the test punch, plug removal and star countermark all in the same general locations for each type of host coin.
