Watch List notes:

MEXICO. "Hookneck" 8 Reales, 1824-Do RL. Durango Mint. NGC EF Details--Cleaned.
HOH-N1/L3; KM-376.4; DP-Do01. Large Libertad-Even Rays and Submissive Snake. Variety with the "R" of "8R" rotated slightly left. Head of snake is pointed down and is about even with the acorns at the end of the wreath. This example offers bold design features with a complete cap, full Libertad, and detailed eagle's breast. It is well struck with full legends on both sides. Close inspection reveals evidence of a past cleaning, now slightly subdued with a thin veneer of light patination complemented by richer coloration amongst the devices. This handsome example is pleasing to the eye.

According to "Hookneck El Aguila de Perfil" authors, Clyde Hubbard and David O'Harrow, who wrote this standard reference, this snake is placed under the submissive snake category, but a distinction is made calling it "upside down Defiant Snake". This is somewhat of a misnomer, the body of the snake follows the contour similar to those of the Defiant Snake, while the head of the snake is slumped over similar to the regular submissive snake. Also, the top of the head points inward toward the eagle's breast. This interesting amalgamation of characteristics is observed in only two documented dies and are only found paired with dies that exhibit Small or Large Libertad, but not the Medium Libertad. It is also important to point out that faint remnants of engraved initials "JA" above the tip of the eagles tail. Though due to die degradation only portions remain on the present piece. As stated above this die is known to be combined with other cap side dies of Small or Large Libertad.

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From the Richard Elliott Collection.

Estimate: $1000 - $1500