If you’re wondering if a Spanish coin is genuine, particularly one from the colonial period like a cob or a milled real, here are some key indicators and methods to consider
- Cob Coins: These were often irregularly shaped, due to their crude, hand-hammered production process. However, their weight should be consistent for their denomination.
- Milled Coins: These were more uniformly round and had milled edges.
- Weight Check: Use a precise digital scale (to at least two decimal places, not a kitchen scale) to verify the coin’s weight against known historical specifications. Significant deviations could indicate a fake.
- Dimensions: Use calipers to measure the coin’s diameter and thickness, [as even if the weight is correct, dimensions might be off on fakes].
- Precious Metals: Authentic Spanish colonial coins were primarily made from silver and gold.
- X-ray Fluorescence (XRF): For a definitive analysis of the metal content without damaging the coin, consider XRF technology, which reveals the elemental composition and verifies it against historical standards.
Look for irregularities in the coin’s edges and surfaces, such as mismatching textures, seams, inconsistent text spacing, or pitting/bubbles, which can be signs of cast fakes. Authentic coins exhibit natural, uneven wear. Examine specific design elements like the cross, royal coat of arms, mintmark, assayer’s initials, and the Pillars of Hercules. Hand-struck cob coins might show off-center strikes, doubling of the design, or misoriented designs, which are typical for that period. Some modern Spanish coins feature microtext only visible with magnification.
Consider the seller’s reputation and knowledge. Authentic and valuable coins often have documentation or provenance. Be cautious of prices that seem too low, as genuine Spanish colonial coins hold significant value.
For certainty, consider submitting the coin to professional grading services like PCGS or NGC. They can authenticate and grade coins, impacting their value.
Important Note: Due to historical variations and the existence of fakes, authenticating Spanish coins can be challenging. Consulting a numismatist or using a professional grading service is often the best approach for valuable or questionable pieces.
How can you tell if a Spanish coin is real?
Metal Composition: Authentic cobs were made from precious metals, primarily silver and gold. Their composition should match historical standards. Design Elements: Look for specific symbols such as the cross, royal coat of arms, and the mintmark, which indicate the coin’s place of origin and authenticity.
How to check if a coin is real or fake?
Thanks for asking. The color. Color is a unique characteristic of each coin. …
Brightness. This is obtained during minting and like color is a characteristic of each alloy.
Smoothness. Parts of the coin that are not engraved should be smooth, even and without porosity.
Wear and tear. …
Latent image. …
Microtext.
What is a Spanish real coin?
The real is the currency used by the Spanish Empire from the 14th century until its replacement by the escudo in 1864. The first Spanish reals were minted during the reign of Alfonso XI of Castile (1311-1350) and were worth 3 maravedis, the Spanish currency since Alfonso VI.
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.