It looks to me like a 2 reales not an 8 reales. I believe the denomination is on the reverse at 10:00, 2R.
I agree that it is probably not 8 reales as I earlier stated. 2 reales might be right on. Does it look like 16 bits or possibly 8?
I was under the impression 8 reales was cut up into 8 pieces for change and smaller spending, hence "bits."
Yes, it could be cut into 8 pieces, each a "bit" each, or if it were quartered each quarter of an 8 real would be "two bits". They were cut up too, I have 8 reals that are worth four bits, (half), 2 bits, (quarter), and one bit, (one eighth). These used to be basically junk silver value years ago. I don't know if these carry any numismatic premium today, but are kind of cool.
Aaahhh (sigh of relief). I was really looking the fool on this thread, but at least its been a learning experience.
Doesn't matter in the least as long as you learn. That is the goal, right? Heck, when I started here I felt like an idiot having to ask what the heck an "ASE" was, but someone answered my question, I learned, and I moved on. Its all good.
Long time no see Mr. Cave Troll. I'll bet you were drawn to 91stang2's coin when you saw the hole in it. Do you still have your cool Dansco 7070 filled with holed coins?
~~~~~shave and a haircut~~~~coin with a hole in it~~~~~ thanks guys! love the info you all put out there
Fifty years ago I had a similar find in a California dealer's "junk box": Spain 2 reales 177x, Mexico City mint, 5.60 gm, about the size of a US quarter Really worn Probably paid a quarter for it then.