Peru 8 Escudos 1701 "Charles II - 1715 Fleet Shipwreck" PCGS UNC
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This is the ONLY CII (Charles II) 1701 in existence, the other known 1701 is PV. Peru 8 Escudos 1701 "Only 2 Known, FULL CII for Charles II" PCGS VF! The Strike on the 'CII' at 1 O'Clock is so astounding, it would be difficult to find one of equal caliber. Usually they come mostly smudge off, or the top part is cut off etc. This one is struck so breathtaking, it's almost a work of art.
The Peru 8 Escudos coin from 1701, minted in Lima, is a notable example of posthumous coinage for King Charles II of Spain. This coin is extremely rare, with only two known examples (only 1 of which is CII), and is highly sought after by collectors due to its historical significance and unique features.
Characteristics
Composition and Weight: The coin is made of gold with a fineness of 0.917 and weighs approximately 26.62 grams.
Design:
Historical Context
The 1701 8 Escudos was minted shortly after the death of Charles II, marking the end of the Habsburg dynasty in Spain. Despite being posthumous, the coin bears the name and insignia of Charles II, reflecting the transition period before the ascension of Philip V. This coin is part of a broader series of gold cobs produced in the Spanish colonies, which were used extensively in trade and as a store of wealth.
In summary, the 1701 Peru 8 Escudos is a remarkable piece of numismatic history, representing the rich colonial heritage of Spanish America and the transition between royal dynasties. Its rarity and historical significance make it a prized possession for collectors and historians alike.
Charles II of Spain, also known as "El Hechizado" or "the Bewitched," was the last monarch of the Spanish Habsburg dynasty. Born on November 6, 1661, in Madrid, he became king at the age of four and reigned until his death on November 1, 1700. His reign was marked by significant health issues, largely attributed to extensive inbreeding within the Habsburg family, which led to physical and mental disabilities.
Charles II's health problems were severe and included disfigurement, epilepsy, and infertility. These issues were compounded by the fact that his parents were closely related, with his mother being the niece of his father. His inability to produce an heir led to a succession crisis, as he died childless, effectively ending the Spanish Habsburg line.
The question of succession was a major political issue during his reign. Charles II named Philip of Anjou, the grandson of Louis XIV of France, as his successor, a decision that led to the War of the Spanish Succession (1701-1714) after his death. This conflict arose because the European powers were concerned about the potential unification of the French and Spanish crowns under one monarch, which could disrupt the balance of power in Europe.
Charles II's reign is often viewed as a period of decline for Spain, although recent studies suggest that this perception may be overly simplistic. Despite his personal challenges, he managed to maintain the territorial integrity of Spain during his lifetime, although his death led to significant territorial losses in the ensuing war.35
Click Here to read more about the '1715 Fleet Shipwreck'
The Peru 8 Escudos coin from 1701, minted in Lima, is a notable example of posthumous coinage for King Charles II of Spain. This coin is extremely rare, with only two known examples (only 1 of which is CII), and is highly sought after by collectors due to its historical significance and unique features.
Characteristics
Composition and Weight: The coin is made of gold with a fineness of 0.917 and weighs approximately 26.62 grams.
Design:
- Obverse: Features the Jerusalem cross with lions and castles in the quarters. The inscription includes "C.II D.G. HISPANIARVM," indicating Charles II by the grace of God, King of Spain.
- Reverse: Displays the iconic pillars and waves design, with the mint mark and date included. The lettering reads "P V A," which is typical for coins of this era.
Historical Context
The 1701 8 Escudos was minted shortly after the death of Charles II, marking the end of the Habsburg dynasty in Spain. Despite being posthumous, the coin bears the name and insignia of Charles II, reflecting the transition period before the ascension of Philip V. This coin is part of a broader series of gold cobs produced in the Spanish colonies, which were used extensively in trade and as a store of wealth.
In summary, the 1701 Peru 8 Escudos is a remarkable piece of numismatic history, representing the rich colonial heritage of Spanish America and the transition between royal dynasties. Its rarity and historical significance make it a prized possession for collectors and historians alike.
Charles II of Spain, also known as "El Hechizado" or "the Bewitched," was the last monarch of the Spanish Habsburg dynasty. Born on November 6, 1661, in Madrid, he became king at the age of four and reigned until his death on November 1, 1700. His reign was marked by significant health issues, largely attributed to extensive inbreeding within the Habsburg family, which led to physical and mental disabilities.
Charles II's health problems were severe and included disfigurement, epilepsy, and infertility. These issues were compounded by the fact that his parents were closely related, with his mother being the niece of his father. His inability to produce an heir led to a succession crisis, as he died childless, effectively ending the Spanish Habsburg line.
The question of succession was a major political issue during his reign. Charles II named Philip of Anjou, the grandson of Louis XIV of France, as his successor, a decision that led to the War of the Spanish Succession (1701-1714) after his death. This conflict arose because the European powers were concerned about the potential unification of the French and Spanish crowns under one monarch, which could disrupt the balance of power in Europe.
Charles II's reign is often viewed as a period of decline for Spain, although recent studies suggest that this perception may be overly simplistic. Despite his personal challenges, he managed to maintain the territorial integrity of Spain during his lifetime, although his death led to significant territorial losses in the ensuing war.35
Click Here to read more about the '1715 Fleet Shipwreck'
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