GUATEMALA. Guatemala - Peru. 8 Reales, ND (1840). NGC AU-53. KM-120.3; Jovel-Type VI. Type III Countermark, Sun over mountains applied to obverse; Reverse: 5-pointed star superimposed on bow, arrow and quiver. Issued by decree of 31 October 1840, instituted 20 November to December. Bi-facial countermark applied independently from each other to an 1832-LIMA MM Peru Republic 8 Reales (KM-142.3). Both countermarks are deeply applied, though the reverse stamp appears to have been struck twice, on a nicely preserved high grade host. This gently circulated survivor exhibits even wear with light attractive mottled tone on the obverse while the reverse displays richer coloration adding to its pleasing appearance. This lovely coin is far nicer than normally encountered for this series, and is sure to be a welcome addition to the next collection it enters. In an effort to deter counterfeiting, the above decree was issued to have a secondary mark applied to the opposite side of all authorized coins. This is evident with the present example as the opposite side of each countermark exhibits different textures indicating being struck on two different surfaces at two different times. Ultimately the use of the independent dies proved to be inefficient and impractical. In December hinged dies were prepared which allowed much easier application. Ex: Richard Stuart Collection.
