12 Maravedis - Philip IV (Countermarked 8 Maravedis) 1641-1642 front 12 Maravedis - Philip IV (Countermarked 8 Maravedis) 1641-1642 back
12 Maravedis - Philip IV (Countermarked 8 Maravedis) 1641-1642 photo
© Pedro Branco (CC BY)

12 Maravedis - Philip IV Countermarked 8 Maravedis

 
Billon 6.6 g 28 mm
Description
Issuer
Spain
King
Philip IV (1621-1665)
Type
Standard circulation coin
Years
1641-1642
Value
12 Maravedis (6⁄17)
Currency
Real (1497-1833)
Composition
Billon
Weight
6.6 g
Diameter
28 mm
Thickness
1 mm
Shape
Round
Technique
Countermarked, Roller milled
Orientation
Variable alignment ↺
Demonetized
Yes
Updated
2024-10-07
References
Numista
N#137749
Rarity index
72%

Reverse

Crowned shield, date at left, in beaded circle. Legend around. Countermarked XII.

Script: Latin

Lettering:
HISPANIARVM REX
1606
XII

Translation: King of the Spains

Comment





© Cuthwellis

Interesting fact

The 12 Maravedis coin from Spain, countermarked 8 Maravedis, issued during the reign of Philip IV (1641-1642) is an interesting piece of history. One fascinating fact about this coin is that it was made of Billon, a metal alloy composed of copper and silver. This was a common practice during that time, as it allowed for the production of coins with a lower silver content, making them more affordable to produce and circulate. Despite its lower silver content, the coin still held significant value and was widely used in trade and commerce.