Stack's Bowers & Ponterio
January 2020 NYINC Auction 20-22 Jan 2020
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BRITISH VIRGIN ISLANDS. Tortola - Martinique. 2 Shillings, ND (ca. 1805-24). NGC FINE-12.
cf.KM-18; Prid-35. Type III countermark, crude raised "TIRTILA" within shaped indent applied to a cut 1/4 Spanish colonial bust 8 Reales with previous crenelated cut edges for Martinique by decree of 1 September 1797. The countermark is boldly applied, though slightly off the side missing the upper most left portion. This is a nice, problem-free example with pleasing dark gray toning; always popular and sought-after in this condition.
cf.KM-18; Prid-35. Type III countermark, crude raised "TIRTILA" within shaped indent applied to a cut 1/4 Spanish colonial bust 8 Reales with previous crenelated cut edges for Martinique by decree of 1 September 1797. The countermark is boldly applied, though slightly off the side missing the upper most left portion. This is a nice, problem-free example with pleasing dark gray toning; always popular and sought-after in this condition.
The use of the misspelt "TIRTILA" countermarks, Type II and III, were adopted by a private individual between 1805-24 after the official issues had ceased to be legal tender, but circulated freely until 1892 when they were withdrawn. Apparently the misspelt name was to avoid legal complications such as a charge of forgery. The local government decided not to take action to suppress these issues and viewed them as private tokens and would eventually gain quasi legal status.
Ex: Stack's Bowers & Ponterio Baltimore Auction # 160 June 17, 2011 Lot # 8562.
Estimate: $300.00- $500.00