Produced under Pedro de Espina (1538-1541), second assayer of the Mexico Mint succeeding Francisco del Rincón. Still less than 50 years after Columbus arrives in the New World and 5 years after the establishment of the first Mint in the New World in Mexico City. Recovered from the “Golden Fleece” shipwreck sunk circa 1550 with all Mexican coins predating Rodrigo Gómez de Santillán (Assayer S), who began his appointment in 1553.
Reference article: https://www.sedwickcoins.com/articles/carlosyjuana.pdf
Mexico City, Mexico, 4 reales, Charles-Joanna, “Early Series,” assayer P to right, mintmark M to left (oMo-oPo), dotted circles, REG/X in legend, PLVS in rhomboid panel, ex-“Golden Fleece Wreck” Research Collection. Nesmith-26 for type; Cal-123; S-M4; KM-17. 13.58 grams. A lovely example of an early assayer-P coin (with HISPANIE in legend) demonstrating the transition in lettering from REG to REX (resulting in REG/X) and unusual stops of cross potents in the pillars legend. Nicely toned around details (XF), with much bold legend on both sides including clear G/X error, choice shield flanked by bold mintmark and assayer, full pillars, practically no corrosion. Pedigreed to Sedwick Auction 4 (lot 188), with photo-certificate. Recovered from: “Golden Fleece wreck,” sunk ca. 1550 in the Northern Caribbean.
