PROOF PATTERNS OF 1847-1849
The following eleven coins were purchased by the Norweb family as a set, housed in a custom-made case (lot 554). The only thing certain about these marvelous coins, however, is that they are not a set. The two minor decimal copper Patterns (lots 543 and 544), are very familiar to collectors. The five silver Patterns, Half through 10-Reales (lots 545 to 549), are very rare but not new; this range of dates and denominations reflects the ambivalance of Nueva Granada towards a new decimal system. Clearly reflected also, however, is the opinion of some that whatever denominations were to be struck in Colombia should be struck in Popayán as well as Bogotá.
The real excitement here is in the four gold coins, all dated 1848. Though without stated denominations, their weights clearly support denominations on the old standard; 2-Pesos, 4-Pesos, 8-Pesos and 16-Pesos. The 4 and 8-Peso denominations appear to be new discoveries; the 2 and 16-Pesos known only by association with rare Bogotá business strikes. Again Popayán's not altogether successful campaign to maintain a full-service mint during this transitional period is in evidence.
The place of manufacture must remain unidentified in the short term but it is impossible to deny that the silver and gold coins, especially, look extremely English. Regardless of their origin, these new coins can be enjoyed for their beauty alone or as extra pieces in the already complicated numismatic jigsaw of Nueva Granada.
Proof Pattern Decimal Half-Real, 1847, struck in bronzed copper, plain edge (KM.101; Restrepo, C151.170.1), small spot on reverse edge otherwise choice Proof
Details
Proof Pattern Decimal Half-Real, 1847, struck in bronzed copper, plain edge (KM.101; Restrepo, C151.170.1), small spot on reverse edge otherwise choice Proof