Charles IV 8 Reales ND (1791-1801) Mo-FM XF (Clipped), Mexico City mint, KM109, Cal-Type 112. 15.75gm. Without known documentation to confirm the existence of an official issue, these cut-down coins create a fascinating numismatic mystery that is believed to be structured around localized North African monetary standards. When studying pieces that have come to market, many from hoards (with some examples originating from Oran and Algeria), it is hypothesized that the pieces were not randomly clipped. A noteworthy pattern occurs when analyzing the clipped weights of both 8 Reales and 4 Reales Cob and/or milled issues; both are left with around 55-62% of their original official weight. After clipping, the 8 Reales is reduced to 15-17 grams of its official 27.1 grams weight while the 4 Reales is reduced to 7-8 grams of its official 13.55 grams. Furthermore, the lack of counter-stamping or a specific shape can indicate a makeshift-type of regulation where local bankers cut the coins themselves, thus following the weight of a local monetary system. Some have linked these cut-issues to the Tripoli 1773 30 Para issues (15-16 grams), that circulated in the Barbary coast of North Africa. This would coincide chronologically, as almost all the cut coins are 18th century or earlier. Overall, a fascinating riddle that is yet to be solved by historians and numismatists alike. From the Gonzaga Collection HID09801242017 © 2024 Heritage Auctions | All Rights Reserved

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