Watch List notes:

VENEZUELA. Puerto Cabello - Caracas. 1/4 Real, ND (1823). NGC AU-53 Brown; Countermark: UNC Strong.
KM-C-2 (undertype); CAL-Type 26#68 (undertype). Stohr- R. I. 24. Issued by decree of 4 June 1823, repealed by decree of 14 March 1826. Nonsensical raised "Chinese" inscription within rectangle shaped border applied to the obverse of an 1818 Caracas Royalist 1/4 Real. The countermark is deeply applied and bold with crisp design features on a nicely preserved and attractive host. The surfaces are smooth with light signs of handling displaying rich mottled brown patina with hints of magenta throughout adding to its pleasing appearance. Vastly superior then normally encountered, these issues are quite RARE is the high state of preservation sure to catch the attention of quality conscious collectors.

The port city of Puerto Cabello was the last remaining Spanish royalist stronghold during the Venezuelan war for independence. This city was important to the Spanish crown and was used as a hub by the Spanish navy in carrying troops, arms, stores and other needed supplies from Spain to her colonies. After several decisive battles the city was captured by Jose Antonio Paez Herrera on 8 November 1823.

Estimate: $400 - $600