Spain 1772-1833 Pistareen Head Silver 2 Reales Very Good to Fine

Product Description

Pistareen coins were issued in Spain strictly for mainland circulation, but their silver content led to illegal exportation around the world, including to Early America. They were 20% lighter than Spanish colonial coins, therefore were only worth 20¢ instead of the 25¢ value of a standard 2 reales coin. Shown is the profile of King Charles III of Spain. These commonly circulated coins inspired Thomas Jefferson's proposal to implement the decimal system for U.S. coinage. Very Good to Fine quality.