1873 Mexico 8 Reales Coin

The 1873 Mo 8R is a common coin. Mintage is not specifically known for this date BUT these were primarily EXPORT coins so mintage numbers are NOTORIOUSLY INNACCURATE. Since many were treated as bullion the survival rate and grade tend to be higher than the issues that circulated heavily. The 1873 is the first year AFTER the 8R denomination was resumed following the introduction of the Peso. Peso's stayed home in Mexico and got worn out - the 8Rs went overseas and into bank vaults or melting pots of jewelers.

The best estimate of actual availability is found in Dunigan's book "Resplandores". However, it is NOT infallible. Some of his estimates are not quite corrrect in the market place and of course new Hoards effect the population. Dunigan indicates that the coin is common and avaiable in all grades through AU. MS examples are called scarce.

In my experience, I completely agree with the coin being common but I believe that even MS examples can be considered to be fairly common. To be scarce a coin should be seen only once or twice a year, but the 1873 Mo in high grade appears many more times than that.

The 1873 does have a RARE variety however, an overdate where an old 1869 die was redated 1873. The photo in Dunigan's book shows a very indistinct 9 and a double punched 7, but there is more than one redated die. If you can post a photo of the date and assayer initials - it would be helpful.

Hi, maybe you wan post a picture so we can check the coin ? :)

Thanks for everyones replies I am on a business for a week and will try and post photos when I return