Watch List notes:

BRITISH VIRGIN ISLANDS. Tortola. 4 Shillings 1 1/2 Pence (1/2 Dollar), ND (1805-24). PCGS FINE-15; Countermark: EF Details.
KM-19; Prid-12. Weight: 11.18 gms. Type III countermark on a 1/2 cut 1788 Mexico City 8 Reales of Charles III. This wonderful local issue displays a bold countermark on a well-preserved cut host coin. The nature of the cut host means the date, mintmark, denomination, and assayer are all clearly presented, details which are seldom seen in this widely-circulated issue. The countermark itself is boldly struck and finely detailed despite its crude die work. The piece is deeply toned and exceedingly charming.

In 1801, British authorities in Tortola ordered a total of 2,500 Pounds sterling to be cut and stamped for local circulation. This action was reversed in 1805, and it was decreed that the cut coinage was no longer to be considered legal tender. Local private issuers then began producing their own stamped coinage, distinguishable by its crude metalwork and misspelling of the island's name as "TIRTILA". This misspelling was most likely a deliberate effort to avoid allegations of counterfeiting. The specie continued to circulate widely in a quasi-official capacity until finally withdrawn in 1892. To view all items from the Pat Johnson Collection, click here.

From the Pat Johnson Collection.

Privately purchased from Jess Peters.

Estimate: $400 - $600