Mystery solved............. I think

[Larry (IL)]

I measured the diameter on the worn silver disk and in it's worn state, it is 16 mm which rules out the half dime and three cent piece which are smaller. I did find a faint block R which would be in the right place and style in DEI.GRATIA on a half Real. The Half Real was made up to 1833 and widely used as US coinage, so where we were hunting, it sounds like a logical ID for the coin. In the picture, the R is at the 3 o'clock position. Any other suggestions for a better ID is welcome. If this was/is a Half Real, that makes TWO firsts for me.

[attachment 279688 Reale.jpg]

 

[Steve1825]

You are correct. there are about 10 different versions of the 1/2 Real starting in 1732 and going up to around 1869. Most have designs that do not have an "R" around the edge. As I could find in the books only the Carolis III (1772 - 1789), Charles IIII (1792-180 and Ferrdinand VII (1808-1821) have the Dei.Gratia on the edge. With that much wear and the dating of the site I would believe it was minted in the 1700's. Probably not exact research but still an outstanding find. Anyone have more info?

 

[Larry (IL)]

Thanks for the research Steve. I'm convinced it was once a Half Real and goes to show how much usage a coin got back then. Makes one wonder how many thousands of times that coin had changed hands before being lost.

 

[TroynSon]

Wow. That is just so cool. I think this is one of the great parts of this hobby. Sometimes a find has you researching and learning history that you may have otherwise never learned. Sometimes looking for that great location does the same.

Looking forward to seeing more from you guys. Been so busy I can't even get out lately so I'm really enjoying your guys info and pics. HH!

 

[ringer]

Truly an historic find Larry! Congratulations I am soooo jealous.