These hand-struck coins circulated throughout the expanding Spanish Empire and played a crucial role in global commerce during the 16th century. Certified by PCGS with a Fine Details designation, this early colonial survivor offers collectors an authentic connection to the beginnings of New World coinage.
Coin Highlights:
- Rulers: Carlos I & Johanna
- Date: 1552
- Denomination: ½ Real
- Grade: PCGS Fine Details
- Metal: Silver
- Mint: Mexico City
- Type: Early Spanish Colonial Cob Coinage
- Strike: Hand struck / Hammered issue
- Obverse: Crowned Pillars of Hercules with legends and denomination.
- Reverse: Crowned shield of Castile and León with surrounding inscriptions.
Historical Significance:
The Mexico City Mint, established in 1535, became the first mint in the New World and laid the foundation for centuries of Spanish colonial coin production. Early Carlos & Johanna silver coinage circulated extensively throughout the Americas and Europe while supporting Spain’s growing economic power. These primitive cob issues remain among the earliest monetary products of the Americas.
Emperor/Monarch History:
Carlos I (Charles V):
- King of Spain from 1516–1556
- Holy Roman Emperor from 1519–1556
- Directed expansion of Spain’s colonial territories
- Ruled one of history’s largest empires
Johanna (Juana I of Castile):
- Queen of Castile from 1504–1555
- Continued appearing on coinage as part of dynastic legitimacy
- Shared royal inscriptions with Carlos I on colonial coinage
Collectibility:
Carlos & Johanna cobs remain highly desirable among collectors of Spanish Colonial coinage and early New World history. Their hand-struck nature ensures each coin possesses a distinctive appearance, and their historical significance continues to drive strong collector demand.
Step back in time with the fascinating world of Spanish Colonial Reales coins from Mexico at Chula Vista Coins & Collectables. These historic and collectible coins bear witness to centuries of history and trade. Explore the intriguing collection of Spanish Colonial Reales (1500-1808) coins of Mexico through this link: Spanish Colonial Coins.
