8 Reales (Type I Countermark) ND (1841-1842) front 8 Reales (Type I Countermark) ND (1841-1842) back
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8 Reales Type I Countermark ND

 
Silver (.917) - 40 mm
Description
Issuer
Costa Rica
Period
Free State (1838-1847)
Type
Standard circulation coin
Years
1841-1842
Value
8 Reales
Currency
Real (1841-1864)
Composition
Silver (.917)
Diameter
40 mm
Shape
Round with a round hole
Technique
Milled, Countermarked, Cut
Demonetized
24 October 1896
Updated
2024-10-04
References
Numista
N#78596
Rarity index
93%

Reverse

Remaining design from host coin.

Script: Latin

Lettering: HISPAN · ET IND · REX · Mo . 8R . FM

Translation:
King of Spain and the Indies
Mexico City 8 Reales FM

Comment

Host coin: Mexico 8 Reales 1772 - 1789 KM#106

An additional hole was cut out from these coins as payment for the counter-marking work.

Interesting fact

The 8 Reales coin from Costa Rica, minted between 1841 and 1842, features a unique countermark, known as the "Type I Countermark," which was added to the coin to confirm its authenticity and value. This countermark is a small stamp or marking that was applied to the coin after it was minted, and it is a distinctive feature that sets this coin apart from other coins of the same era. The use of countermarks was a common practice in the 19th century, particularly in Latin America, as a way to verify the authenticity of coins and prevent counterfeiting.