Hi All, I have an opportunity to buy this coin privately. It appears to be a 8 reales (probably gold-plated) silver cob. Date appears to be 160? Assayer looks to be F over D. Overall strike and Condition looks excellent. Some bends and flattening consistent w this type. Expert opinions are welcome. Thanks in advance.
Spanish cob coins are probably the most faked series in all of numismatics. Ever since "pirates" made it into pop culture these things have been pumped out of gift shops and tourist traps around the world. Authentic cobs are pricey and have extraordinary premiums especially with gold escudos. Some of the fakes can be very high quality and sometimes trick experienced collectors. This is a series where you really gotta research and know your stuff before getting out there.
Don't buy it. If you are looking for a nice type 8 reales cob, check out Dan Sedwick's website. https://www.sedwickcoins.com/price_list.htm He also conducts auctions on a semiannual basis.
It's not clear what the nature of this transaction is but sometimes there is a reason why you get a "special" deal. Don't do it.
Thanks all. Crisis averted. I informed the unknowing novice seller that it was a fake and that I was no longer interested.