Watch List notes:

CUBA. Cuba - Mexico. Peso, ND (ca. 1872-77). PCGS EF-40.
KM-R7; ANS-Not listed. Variety A, Short and thick key. Countermark applied to the obverse of an 1873-GoS Mexico Republic "Balance Scale" Peso. A SCARCE and seldom encountered denomination from this series. The countermark is boldly applied with clear diagnostics of the punch on an attractive and moderately worn host. The surfaces exhibit signs of handling consistent for the grade displaying lovely gray patina with areas of richer coloration amongst the devices and an attractive iridescent sheen. This handsome looking survivor offers much originality and is pleasing to the eye sure to attractive the attention of many collectors

The Key has long been an icon of Cuba for centuries first being used in the Arms of Havana in the 1580s and used in various forms since that time. The island itself is often referred to as the "Key to the Americas" as well as the "Queen of the Antilles". During Cuba's first War for Independence also known as the Ten Year's War (1868-78) the Key was used in what would eventually become the arms of the Republic of Cuba. All known examples of these key countermarks are found on host coins from either Mexico or the United States of America dated prior to the end of the Ten Year's War. Although the exact origins of these key countermarks are unknown, at this time it is the belief of this cataloger that these are a Cuban issue of some nature and as such are of significant historical value to the island.

Estimate: $1000 - $1500