Beth D. writes: I have a coin that was sent to me by my father. The front of the coin has a head with a ponytail in the back (facing right) with the words Ferdin VII Dei Gratia 1813 wrapping around it. The back has a shield (coat of arms?) and a crown resting on top of it with the words Hispan EtInd Rex, then a small symbol, then 2R F I (or maybe J) I have found no information about this coin anywhere, could you please tell me about it and what it may be worth?
You have a 1813 Chile (Spanish Colonial) 2 reales. The assayer is F.J. There also is a “o” over “S” mint mark representing the Santiago Mint. The coin features the bust of King Ferdinand VII of Spain, the Latin legend around, FERDIN.VII. DEI.GRATIA (Ferdinand VII by the Grace of G-d). The legend continues on the reverse: HISPAN. ET IND. REX. S. 2R.F.J (King of the Spain and the Indies. [S]antiago Mint mark. 2 reales. F.J.). Two reales coins were legal tender in the United States until 1857 and were equal to a U.S quarter. Market value depends on grade (condition). Approximate value range: $15 – $125.
