Watch List notes:

MEXICO. Hidalgo. War of Independence. Fantasy Silver 4 Reales, ND ("1810-21") (ca. late 19th Century). PCGS Genuine--Mount Removed, EF Details.
KM-X2 (for countermark). Most likely a late 19th century fantasy issue, due to the erroneous DI (for DE) and Mo "mintmark," and unlikely use of a religious medal as a host. The host on this piece commemorates the "black Christ" of Chalma, an image of Christ said to have miraculously appeared in a cave in the 16th century, replacing a pagan idol and aiding in the early conversion of Mexico. The intriguing ovoid medal is deeply toned to an even gunmetal gray color. The countermark was struck forcefully, resulting in sharp clarity of detail but also, consequently, some slight deformation on the opposing side. Four minor indentations are noted on the rims, evidence of past mounting. The medal remains highly appealing with much detail.

This curious countermark is listed and photographed in Numismatic History of Mexico by Alberto Francisco Pradeau. The author takes the position that this countermark must be a later imitation because of the quality of the die, the misspelled "DE", the inexplicable use of the Mexico City mintmark, and the unlikelihood of the use of religious medals as coinage by Hidalgo's insurgency. The purpose and dating of this odd imitation thus remain unknown. To view all items from the Pat Johnson Collection, click here.

From the Pat Johnson Collection.

Estimate: $100 - $200