GUATEMALA. Guatemala - Peru. 8 Reales, ND (1840). PCGS AU-50; Countermark: AU Details. KM-118.1; Jovel-Type VI Countermark. 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. Applied to an 1834-LIMA MM Peru Republic 8 Reales. Initial countermark on obverse, sun over mountains, issued by decree of 31 October to 20 November 1840, secondary countermark on reverse applied between 20 November to December. The countermarks are boldly applied with nicely detailed punches to a lovely high grade host coin. The host displays a light gray tone on the obverse with russet patina in the peripheries with area of richer coloration. The reverse exhibits more of a slate patination thats complemented by an iridescent sheen that pops out when tilted in the light. This handsome survivor is much nicer than normally encountered and is pleasing to the eye sure to be a welcome addition to the next collection it enters.<p><em>In an effort to deter counterfeiting, the above decree was issued to have a secondary mark to be applied to the opposite side of all authorized coins. Ultimately the use of the independent dies proved to be inefficient and impractical. In December hinged dies were prepared which allowed much easier application.</em>
