CVC & Collectables presents this 1838-AREQ Peru 2 Reales, minted at the Arequipa Mint (AREQ mintmark), is a scarce silver coin issued during the brief existence of the South Peru Confederation (1836-1839). Struck under the leadership of Andrés de Santa Cruz, this coin represents a fascinating chapter in South American history, when Peru and Bolivia attempted a political and economic union. Graded Good Details (Cleaned) by NGC, it retains identifiable design elements despite its circulation and past surface cleaning.
Coin Highlights:
- Issuer: South Peru (Peru-Bolivian Confederation)
- Date: 1838
- Mint: Arequipa (AREQ mintmark)
- Denomination: 2 Reales
- Composition: Silver (.903 fine, approx. 0.1965 oz actual silver weight)
- Weight: Approx. 6.77 g
- Diameter: Approx. 27 mm
- Edge: Reeded
- Grade: NGC Good Details (Cleaned) — Circulated condition with signs of past surface treatment but retains historical significance.
Obverse:
- Design: A radiant sun face, symbolizing Incan heritage and South Peru’s independence from Spanish rule.
- Inscription: CONFEDERACION PERUANA SUD
- Translation: “South Peruvian Confederation.”
Reverse:
- Design: The South Peruvian coat of arms, featuring:
- A vicuña, symbolizing the region’s natural wealth.
- A cornucopia, representing prosperity and commerce.
- A quina tree, signifying Peru’s rich medicinal resources.
- Inscription: 2R. AREQ. 1838
Collectibility:
This 1838-AREQ South Peru 2 Reales (NGC Good Details Cleaned) is a historically valuable coin for collectors. While it has been cleaned, this coin remains a significant numismatic artifact, offering a rare glimpse into South Peru’s short-lived existence. A historically rich silver coin, representing a failed but fascinating attempt at unifying Peru and Bolivia into a single political entity! Find more alike here!
