CVC & Collectables proudly presents the 1880-Pi|MH Mexico 8 Reales, minted at the San Luis Potosí Mint (Pi) with the MH assayer initials, is a significant Mexican trade coin that circulated extensively in global commerce. The presence of a Swastika chopmark adds historical depth, indicating its acceptance in Asian markets, where merchants stamped coins to verify authenticity.
Coin Highlights:
- Issuer: United Mexican States
- Date: 1880
- Mint: San Luis Potosí (Pi Mintmark)
- Assayer: MH
- Denomination: 8 Reales
- Composition: Silver (.9027 fine, approximately 0.7859 oz actual silver weight)
- Edge: Reeded with an inscribed legend
- Grade: NGC Chopmarked — Features a Swastika chopmark, indicating its use in global trade, particularly in Asia.
Obverse:
- Design: The radiant Liberty cap, symbolizing freedom and independence, a hallmark of Mexican 8 Reales coinage.
- Inscription: LIBERTAD 8R. 1880. Pi. MH.
- “Liberty, 8 Reales, 1880, San Luis Potosí Mint, Assayer MH.”
Reverse:
- Design: The Mexican coat of arms, featuring an eagle perched on a cactus devouring a snake, inspired by Aztec legend and symbolizing Mexican sovereignty.
- Inscription: REPUBLICA MEXICANA
Historical Significance:
The Swastika chopmark found on this piece is an auspicious symbol in many Asian cultures, representing good fortune, longevity, and prosperity. Mexican silver coins like this competed with the Spanish colonial reales, U.S. trade dollars, and British silver coins in Asian markets, particularly in China and India. The San Luis Potosí Mint (Pi Mintmark) was one of Mexico’s important silver-producing mints, contributing to the country’s dominance in the global silver trade.
Collectibility:
This 1880-Pi MH 8 Reales with a Swastika Chopmark is a highly desirable coin. Chopmarked 8 Reales coins are a testament to 19th-century international trade, and the Swastika chopmark makes this piece especially rare and intriguing. With NGC authentication, this coin is a tangible piece of history that traveled across continents, making it a standout addition to any world coin collection! Find more alike here!
