1813 Mexico Oaxaca 8R PCGS VF Detail Calico-1431 Environment Damage

Historical Context

• Minting During the Mexican War of Independence:
  • The Oaxaca Mint was established during the Mexican War of Independence as part of the revolutionary movement seeking independence from Spain.
  • Coins from this mint, such as the 1813 8 Reales, are symbolic of the era’s struggle for freedom.
• José María Morelos:
  • Morelos was a leading figure in the Mexican independence movement and played a significant role in establishing mints like that in Oaxaca.
  • The Oaxaca Mint’s coins are integral to the narrative of Mexico’s quest for independence.

Design Characteristics

• Obverse:
  • Typically features the bust of a leader or a national allegorical figure.
  • In this case, it may depict Morelos or another symbol of liberty representing Mexico.
• Reverse:
  • Displays national symbols, such as an eagle or a laurel wreath, with engravings marking the mint and date.
  • The coin’s design reflects Mexico’s fledgling national identity and struggle for independence.

Grade and Condition

• VF Detail (Calico-1431, Environment Damage):
  • “VF” denotes that the coin retains enough of its design details to be considered Very Fine, with some wear indicating circulation.
  • “Environment Damage” includes imperfections resulting from exposure to environmental factors over time, such as oxidation, pitting, or staining.
  • Genuine Environment Damage is important because it reflects the coin’s actual usage and history, rather than damage inflicted after its minting.

Rarity and Collectability

• Scarcity:
  • Coins from the Oaxaca Mint are relatively rare, especially from the early 19th century, making them highly collectible.
  • The 1813 date is especially significant due to the turbulent period of Mexican history.
• Historical Value:
  • These coins provide a tangible link to the era of Mexican independence and are highly prized for their historical context.
  • The environment damage may reduce their numismatic value slightly compared to better-preserved examples, but it enhances their appeal to collectors interested in the coin’s journey through time.

Significance

The 1813 Mexico Oaxaca 8 Reales, graded as PCGS VF Detail with environment damage, is a compelling piece of Mexico’s numismatic history. It embodies the tumultuous period of the Mexican War of Independence, linking collectors not only to the coin’s physical past but also to the broader historical context of Mexican autonomy.