Peru / Lima 8 reales nd Philip II (1556-1598), P, D, Diego de la Torre XF/AU

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Numismatic and Historic Overview of the Peru/Lima 8 Reales nd Philip II (1556-1598), P, D, Diego de la Torre, XF/AU

The Peru Lima 8 Reales of Philip II: A Numismatic and Historical Gem

Historical Context
During the reign of Philip II of Spain (1556–1598), the Spanish Empire was at the zenith of its global influence, fueled by vast quantities of silver extracted from the New World. The Lima Mint, established in 1568 in present-day Peru, was a cornerstone of Spain’s colonial economy, producing silver coins that circulated across continents. The 8 Reales, often referred to as the "piece of eight," was a cornerstone of global trade, recognized as a standard currency in Europe, the Americas, and Asia. Minted under the supervision of assayer Diego de la Torre, this coin reflects the economic might and administrative precision of Spain’s colonial enterprise during the late 16th century.

The Coin: Design and Characteristics
The Lima 8 Reales, cataloged as Cal# 654 and KM# 14, is a silver coin weighing 27.32 grams, struck on a nearly perfectly round planchet. This particular variety features a distinctive six-pointed star above the Arabic denomination to the left, alongside the mintmark "P" for Peru and the assayer’s initial "D" for Diego de la Torre. The coin’s full flan ensures that the outer legends are almost entirely legible, with only minor weak points, a testament to the quality of its production.
The obverse displays the crowned shield of Spain, incorporating the arms of Castile and León, with intricate details of the castles’ masonry and the lions’ curved tails preserved in remarkable clarity. The reverse features a cross potent, symbolizing Spanish Catholicism, with the arms of the House of Habsburg. The central devices are fully struck, showcasing the meticulous craftsmanship of the Lima Mint. Graded XF/AU (Extremely Fine/About Uncirculated), this coin exhibits minimal handling, retaining fine details and a lustrous surface that highlights its exceptional preservation.

Numismatic Significance
The XF/AU grade of this 8 Reales underscores its rarity and desirability among collectors. Coins of this era, especially those struck in colonial mints, were often subject to heavy circulation or clipping, making well-preserved examples like this one extraordinary. The full flan and clear legibility of the legends, combined with the sharp central devices, elevate this piece to a pinnacle of numismatic excellence. The specific layout of the mintmark, denomination, and assayer’s mark further distinguishes this variety, offering insight into the minting practices of the time.

Cultural and Economic Implications
The 8 Reales was more than a coin; it was a global economic instrument. Its standardized weight and purity made it a trusted medium for international trade, from the markets of Seville to the ports of Manila. In the Americas, it underpinned the colonial economy, facilitating trade between Spain, its colonies, and indigenous populations. The Lima Mint’s output, under assayers like Diego de la Torre, was critical to sustaining Spain’s mercantile ambitions. The six-pointed star and precise arrangement of marks on this coin reflect the administrative rigor of the mint, ensuring authenticity and adherence to royal standards.

Conclusion
The Peru Lima 8 Reales from the reign of Philip II, graded XF/AU, is a stunning artifact of Spain’s colonial legacy and the global reach of its silver coinage. Its exceptional preservation, full flan, and intricate details make it a standout piece for numismatists, while its historical context ties it to the economic and cultural currents of the late 16th century. This coin is not merely a relic of the past but a tangible link to the era when Spanish silver shaped the world’s economy, embodying the craftsmanship and ambition of a global empire.

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