1556–1598 Spain Gold Escudo of King Philip II NGC MS62

Pirate Treasure? Rare, Beautiful Spanish Gold Escudo

Unbelievable eye appeal! Beginning in the 16th century, Spain introduced Gold Escudos and Silver Reales, with one Escudo equal to 16 Reales–both of which quickly spread around the world in the holds of Spanish galleons and the money pouches of sailors that manned those ships. The Spanish empire was so powerful and widespread that these coins could be used anywhere in the world, making them sought-after loot for pirates of the day.

Struck During The Reign Of King Philip II

This Gold Escudo was minted between 1556 and 1598 at the Toledo Mint in Spain. What is so incredible about this piece–besides the fact that it's well over 400 years old–is how very nicely it's centered. The reverse is actually straight, not rotated like many of the old, hammered coins. That reverse features an ornate Fleuree Cross within quadrilobe, while the obverse features the crowned coat of arms of Spanish King Philip II–whose empire included territories on every continent, and whose reign saw Spain become the foremost Western European power.

Philip Versus England

Philip II's empire even included England–though in title only–due to his marriage to Queen Mary, the eldest daughter of King Henry VIII. When "Bloody Mary" ascended to the English throne after the death of her teenaged brother, Edward VI, Philip enjoyed his wife's titles and honors for as long as they remained married. Their children would have inherited one of the largest empires the world had ever seen. Mary died in 1558, however, before the union produced any children. Her successor, younger sister Elizabeth I, rejected Philip's offer of marriage and eventually became one of Spain's greatest rivals, defeating Philip's Spanish Armada in 1588 setting the stage for English privateers like Sir Francis Drake and Sir Henry Morgan to make their fortunes attacking Spanish ships.

Order Now, Only ONE Coin Is Available

This coin has been certified, graded, and encapsulated by the Numismatic Guaranty Company (NGC) as being in Uncirculated Mint State-62 (MS62) condition–a fantastic grade for a coin of this age and sphere of influence. In fact, this is one of only two of these coins graded by NGC. Here's your chance to secure the type of gold coin pirates of the Spanish Main would have drawn cutlas over. We have only ONE available, so act fast to secure it now for your collection!