Watch List notes:

MEXICO. "Hookneck" 8 Reales, 1824-Mo JM. Mexico City Mint. NGC VF-35.
HOH-MO22/MR18A; KM-A376.2; DP-Mo02. Variety with superscript "s" of Dineros set high above stop, superscript "s" of Granos set high and is almost even with top of "G", head of snake points to vertical leg of "R", wing tip points to terminal leg of first "A" of "MEXICANA", top tail feather is aligned with end stop. This moderately worn and wholesome example displays attractive dove gray tone with richer coloration amongst the devices and underlying luster complemented by hints of iridescence in the protected areas. The cap is nearly full with complete Libertad and bold legends. This charming example offers a pleasing appearance with good eye appeal.

The eagle side die of the present piece can be linked to at least three different cap side dies. Based on die degradation it appears that the progression would place an order of MR18A, MR22A, MR22. Certainly MR22 appears to be the last based on die clashing evident below the eagle's tail and through the cactus on the right.

The multiple dies and reuse of an earlier die, MR18A, is understandable if we accept the die use chronology proposed by Hubbard and O'Harrow in which MO22 was the last eagle side die of the series. Mint workers would have known that a die style change was imminent and were trying to conclude the Hookneck series with the minimum amount of new die making. To view all items from the Richard Elliot Collection click here.

From the Richard Elliott Collection.

Estimate: $500 - $700