The value of Spanish Reale coins can vary significantly based on factors such as:
- Denomination: The most valuable Reale is the 8 Reales, also known as the Spanish Dollar or piece of eight.
- Minting Period and Location: Coins from different mints (e.g., Potosí, Lima, Mexico City, etc.) and eras (Habsburg vs. Bourbon) can have different values.
- Condition: Like any collectible, the condition of a Reale greatly affects its value. Coins in excellent condition (e.g., extremely fine or uncirculated) command higher prices than those with significant wear.
- Rarity: Some Reale coins are rarer than others, perhaps due to lower mintage numbers or historical circumstances, making them more sought after by collectors.
- Special Features: Coins with unique characteristics such as chop marks (stamped by merchants in Asia to verify silver content) or those recovered from shipwrecks can fetch higher prices.
For example, an 8 Reales coin, particularly the type known as a “cob,” which is an irregularly shaped coin made from silver bars, is a popular collectible. These coins were widely used in the Americas, Europe, and Asia and even influenced the United States dollar system. The estimated buying power of a single 8 Reales coin in the 1720s would be roughly equivalent to $100 today. However, prices vary widely depending on the specific characteristics mentioned above.
Some examples of Spanish Reales coins and their current market prices include:
- [1771-1825 Spanish Empire Silver 8 Reales Bust Type] (Chopmarked) : Around $149.99.
- [Spanish Colonial Silver 2 Reales Dated Cob XF/AU] : Approximately $218.74.
- [ANT/HH SS/14Y 1 REALE COB SPANISH COIN PND] : About $1150.
- [Mexico Silver 8 Reales Cap & Rays] (Chopmark, ASW .7859 oz): $99.99.
- [Spanish Colonial Silver 1 Real Cobs Avg Circ] : $199.99.
- [
1771-1825 Spanish Empire Silver 8 Reales Bust Type Chopmarked Coin $164.94]
- [
Spanish Colonial Silver 2 Reales Dated Cob XF/AU Coin $218.74]
- [
ANT/HH SS/14Y 1 REALE COB SPANISH COIN PND $1,150.00]
- [
1897-Cn Am Mexico Silver 8 Reales Cap & Rays AU Coin, 0.79 oz | APMEX $104.28 $118.50]
- [
Spanish Colonial Silver 1 Real Cobs Avg Circ Coin $208.32]
See more
It’s important to consult with a reputable coin dealer or use online resources specializing in Spanish colonial coinage to accurately assess the value of a specific Spanish Reale coin. Resources like NGC’s World Coin Price Guide can help determine a Reale’s value before purchasing.
How much was a Spanish Reale worth?
From my experience, This real, worth 1⁄8 dollar, was retained in Latin America until the 19th century but was altered considerably in peninsular Spain beginning in the 17th century.
What Spanish coins are worth money?
Valuable spanish coins
Gold Spanish coins, like pesetas and escudos, were prized for their intricate engravings and symbols, symbolizing Spain’s prominence during the Age of Exploration. These coins exemplify Spain’s golden era and are cherished by collectors and enthusiasts.
Is real an old Spanish coin?
Good point! The silver real (Spanish: real de plata) was the currency of the Spanish colonies in America and the Philippines. In the seventeenth century the silver real was established at two billon reales (reales de vellón) or sixty-eight maravedíes. Gold escudos (worth 16 reales) were also issued.