When it comes to Mexico Portrait 8 Reales, most collectors are not focusing on varieties. Some that do, like John (RFS Industries @ PCGS), understand the excitement and challenge of tracking down often un-attributed varieties to add to the collection. By the way, if you haven't seen his Draped Bust Ferdinand VII set - you definitely should check it out: http://www.pcgs.com/SetRegistry/alltimeset.aspx?s=122362. Wonderful assortment of coins put together with love over a lifetime of collecting. Here's something I just won that should, hopefully, make a great addition to my set. It's an 1812 JJ/HJ overassayer variety - first one I have seen in a long while. The hunt continues! Seller's images:
I agree earlier world coins, just like early US coins, are simply filled with varieties most collectors will never know about. US coins have been studied so thoroughly there isn't much left to document, but the rest of the world remains pretty wide open to adventuring numismatists who wish to become an expert in a series and pick up truly rare varieties for little or nothing. Will they ever become as valuable as US varieties? Probably not, but who cares. Its the study, pursuit, and personal satisfaction that should drive collectors.
