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Spain 2 Escudos 1598-1665 "Philip III" PCGS 45

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Gold Born of Empire: Philip III–IV 2 Escudos Cob (1598–1665) – PCGS XF45

A golden relic forged at the height of Spanish imperial power, this 2 Escudos cob, struck sometime between 1598 and 1665 under Philip III or Philip IV, carries the weight of colonial conquest, transatlantic trade, and royal ambition. Certified XF45 by PCGS and weighing 6.65 grams, this lustrous gold piece is an authentic survivor of the Spanish Golden Age—an era when Spain’s global influence was rivaled only by the riches flowing from the New World.

Cobs like this were hand-struck in haste, often aboard ships or in colonial mints like Bogotá, Lima, or Mexico City, where speed mattered more than aesthetics. These irregular, boldly hammered coins were the very currency of empire—used to pay soldiers, fund wars, and settle international debts. Their rugged shapes and bold, royal iconography made them instantly recognizable in bustling colonial markets and stormy high seas alike.

This particular piece boasts strong detail despite its crude production—its legends partially visible, its shield still sharp with the unmistakable Habsburg flair. The XF45 grade is rare for gold cobs of this era, which often saw extensive circulation or shipwreck exposure. This coin avoided both, surviving in remarkably preserved condition, its surfaces showing light circulation but excellent overall integrity.

Spanning the reigns of two monarchs—Philip III and his son Philip IV, this escudo witnessed some of the most turbulent and transformative decades in Spanish history. From the decline of Habsburg dominance to the mounting cost of colonial wars, every gram of this gold tells a story of global ambition, economic complexity, and the fragility of power.
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Whether you’re a numismatist, a historian, or a treasure enthusiast, this is more than just a coin—it’s a golden echo from the heart of the Spanish Empire.
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