Spanish silver coin. King Carlos IV is pictured on the obverse, and the Spanish coat of arms is on the reverse. Such coins were used in Louisiana during the late 18th and early 19th centuries. Many European coins circulated in the United States prior to and during the Revolution. Americans frequently backed their currency in Spanish dollars because of its finer quality.
The coin was found on the banks of Bayou Teche which bordered the donor's Belmont Plantation. The plantation was the home of the last Commandant under Spanish rule.
Place Made Spain
Signatures/Marks CAROLUS IIII DEO GRATIA (obverse); HISPAN*ET*IND*M*F*M (reverse)
1784
Metal
0.5in
76.41.1
Image and text: DAR Museum, 2024
Where you'll find this
DAR Museum
Permanent collection