Jim G. writes: I have a coin which I believe is a Spanish Escudo. I found one very similar on the web, it was listed as a Mexican Cob circa 1714, bearing the Jerusalem cross on one side and Phillip V Crowned Hapsburg arms on the other. Mine weighs 7.3 grams and is gold. It has a slightly porous surface. On one side is plainly stamped a Jerusalem cross, the other side has a coat of arms, but it is off-centered and the date is not visible. I am wondering what the value of this coin is. Thanks for any help.
It sounds like a 2 escudos from the 1715 Plate Fleet. It would have “J” assayer and the Mº mint mark (Mexico City). The only problem is the weight. A two escudos weighs 6.76 grams. Your weight describes a 2 escudos that weighs quite a bit more (closer to a “3” escudos if there was such a coin). This coin is from an intrinsic money system and, if anything, might weigh a bit less if it was under the water for almost 300 years. Overweight intrinsic coins are unknown (its like going into a bank, asking change for a $10 bill and getting $14 back). Overweight coins are suspect, since “weight” is one test for authenticity (for example, gold plated lead copies exist).
You might have a defective scale. Try testing it with known, standard weights. You can also send your coin for certification. See the CoinSite’s Links Page for more information.
Genuine Philip V Mexico 2 escudos bring $800-$1,200+.
