CUBA. Cuba - Mexico. Peso, ND (ca. 1872-77). PCGS VF-35. KM-R7 (plate coin); ANS-Not listed. Variety A, Short and thick key. Countermark applied to the obverse of an 1870-MoM Mexico Republic "Balance Scale" Peso. A <strong>SCARCE</strong> denomination from this series. The countermark is boldly applied to a moderately worn host offering clear diagnostics of the punch. The surfaces exhibit signs of handling consistent for the grade with even wear displaying light mottled tone near the edges. This wholesome looking survivor is a pleasing example of the type sure to add depth to the next collection it enters.<p>The Key has long been an icon of Cuba for centuries first being used in the Arms of Havana in the 1580s and used in various forms since that time. The island itself is often referred to as the "Key to the Americas" as well as the "Queen of the Antilles". During Cubas first War for Independence also known as the Ten Years War (1868-78) the Key was used in what would eventually become the arms of the Republic of Cuba. All known examples of these key countermarks are found on host coins from either Mexico or the United States of America dated prior to the end of the Ten Years War. Although the exact origins of these key countermarks are unknown, at this time it is the belief of this cataloger that these are a Cuban issue of some nature and as such are of significant historical value to the island
