Historical Significance
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Struck in 1808 at the Oaxaca mint, this coin belongs to the late colonial era under King Charles IV of Spain—a time marked by political uncertainty, war in Europe, and increasing calls for independence in Spanish America.
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Coins from provincial mints like Oaxaca circulated widely in trade across the Spanish Empire and beyond, including the United States, China, and the Caribbean—earning the nickname “pillar dollar”.
Coin Details & Design
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Mint: Oaxaca, denoted by its mint mark
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Obverse: Features the armored bust of Charles IV with the legend “CAROLUS IIII DEI GRATIA”
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Reverse: Displays the pillars of Hercules flanking a shield, with the motto “PLVS VLTRA” – iconic of Spanish colonial coinage
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Specifications (similar to major mints): ~27 g of .896 fine silver, approximately 40 mm in diameter
