Spanish 5 Pesetas Coin (Alfonso XII / Amadeo I Style Type) Mounted as a Pendant
Coin/Bullion mounted as Jewelry · Real Casa de la Moneda (Royal Spanish Mint), Madrid
Pattern: Spanish 5 Pesetas Pillar Dollar / Coat of Arms Design
Type
Coin/Bullion mounted as Jewelry
Maker
Real Casa de la Moneda (Royal Spanish Mint), Madrid
Material
Coin Silver (.900 silver, .100 copper), standard for 19th-century Spanish coinage
Dimensions
Standard 5 Pesetas coin diameter is approximately 37 mm, weight approximately 25 grams of .900 silver (plus slight additional weight from the suspension loop mounting)
Description
An engaging numismatic and silver piece featuring the classic reverse design of a late 19th-century Spanish 5 Pesetas coin. The obverse or reverse prominently displays the intricate crowned Spanish coat of arms flanked by the iconic Pillars of Hercules wrapped in banners bearing the motto 'PLUS ULTRA'. The denomination '5 PESETAS' is boldly inscribed at the bottom, alongside the Madrid mintmark. It has been fitted with a suspension loop, transforming a traditional silver crown into a wearable pendant or talisman.
Key Features
Iconic Pillars of Hercules design, high-relief royal coat of arms, .900 silver composition, and aftermarket or period pendant conversion mount
Material & Composition
Coin Silver (.900 silver, .100 copper), standard for 19th-century Spanish coinage
Finish & Decoration
High-relief die-struck design featuring the crowned Spanish royal coat of arms flanked by the Pillars of Hercules with 'PLUS ULTRA' banners, surrounded by lettering and a denticulated rim. Highly polished or cleaned surface finish.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Mintmark of a crowned 'M' for Madrid, denomination '5 PESETAS', and legend reading 'REY CONSTC DE ESPANA' (or similar variant depending on the exact monarch issue)
Construction Details
Machine die-struck coin with a soldered suspension loop attached to the top edge for use as a pendant or watch fob
Functional Features
Features a soldered top suspension ring allowing it to be worn on a chain as a necklace pendant or hung as a fob
Handle & Grip Details
Not applicable; features a small soldered suspension loop at the top rim
Craftsmanship Details
Precision nineteenth-century mechanical screw-press die striking resulting in crisp lettering and deep relief, though subsequently modified with a hand-soldered suspension loop
Authentication Indicators
The lettering, denticles, and coat of arms display the proper relief characteristics of authentic 19th-century Spanish mint striking, though the high-shine surface suggests a past cleaning or polishing. Professional specific gravity or XRF testing is recommended to confirm exact silver fineness.
Origin & Manufacturing
Madrid, Spain, struck at the Real Casa de la Moneda
Era & Period
Late 19th Century / Restoration Period (c. 1870-1885)
Age Estimate
Late 19th century, circa 1875-1885 based on standard coin design parameters
Cultural Significance
Represents the height of 19th-century Spanish currency design and imperial symbolism, reflecting Spain's historical global trade dominance through the Pillars of Hercules motif. Coin jewelry was also historically popular as a means of displaying wealth or preserving portable currency.
Condition Notes
Very Good condition. The coin exhibits moderate surface wear and polishing typical of handled silver, with some loss of fine high-point relief details. The surface shows a bright polished sheen with minor hairline scratches. A soldered mounting loop is attached at the top.
Value Estimate
Estimated market value ranges between $45 to $90 USD, largely driven by the intrinsic silver melt value of the coin plus a modest premium for the numismatic design and pendant conversion.
Care & Maintenance
Clean gently with warm soapy water and a soft cloth when needed. Avoid harsh chemical dips that strip natural numismatic tone, and store in a dry environment or anti-tarnish pouch.
Similar Pieces
Morgan Silver Dollar pendants, British Crown pendants, and Mexican 8 Reales mounted coins
Interesting Facts
The 5 Pesetas coin was known popularly as a 'duro' and was the Spanish equivalent of the American silver dollar or the French 5-franc piece. The Pillars of Hercules design traces its lineage back to the famous Spanish colonial 'Pieces of Eight' widely used in global trade.
Notes
Coin