1631-65 Spain | 8 Escudo | PCGS | AU-53

This majestic 1631–1665 S-R Spain 8 Escudo, cataloged as Calicó Type-406, and certified About Uncirculated 53 by PCGS, is a powerful relic of Spain’s imperial wealth during the reign of King Philip IV. Struck at the historic Seville Mint, this large gold cob stands as a tangible link to the height of Spanish maritime dominance and colonial expansion.  Amazingly, only TWO of these are certified in all grades combined!

The obverse features the unmistakable Habsburg shield, crowned and crisply defined, despite the inherent irregularities of its hammered production. Portions of the royal legend frame its deeply impressed central devices, still partially visible, lending historical authenticity and period character to the piece.

The reverse displays a robust Jerusalem cross within a quatrefoil, bold and symmetrical—one of the more visually dramatic features of 17th-century Spanish cobs. Along the edges, you’ll find remnants of the outer inscription, while the “S” mintmark for Seville and the “R” assayer initial affirm its origin and authenticity.

Struck in .875 fine gold, this 8 Escudo was Spain’s highest gold denomination, minted to facilitate large-scale transactions across Europe and the Americas. Massive and impressive in hand, these coins were often hoarded, lost at sea, or melted down—making high-grade survivors like this a true rarity.

The PCGS AU53 designation confirms this example’s outstanding preservation, with strong details on both obverse and reverse and original surfaces untouched by modern cleaning. The broad flan and centered strike further elevate its appeal—especially desirable for collectors of early Spanish or shipwreck-era gold.

This gold cob was minted in the same period when galleons crossed the Atlantic with treasure from the Americas—coins like this funded wars, built empires, and shaped the global economy.

Available for purchase at Austin Rare Coins & Bullion.

The coin pictured is the exact coin you will receive.