Coin Peru Ferdinand VI - 8 Silver Reales - Cob - 1747-1751 - Lima

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Ferdinand VI, King of Spain from 1746 to 1759, left a lasting legacy in the numismatic history of his empire and colonies, particularly through the 8-reales coins, also known as "Cobs." These coins, struck by hand in the mints of Spanish America, were vital to the economy of the Spanish Empire and its global trade.

Mints in Mexico, Peru, Bolivia, and other parts of Spanish America continued to produce these 8-reales, with the Lima mint being especially active between 1747 and 1751. These coins were easily identifiable by their irregular shape, due to the hand-striking process, and featured a distinctive design: the obverse displayed a cross and the symbols of Castile and León, while the reverse depicted the columns of Hercules with the inscription "PLVS VLTRA," symbolizing the Empire?s expansion. The silver used to strike these coins primarily came from the rich mines of Potosí and Mexico.

Ferdinand VI?s policy of neutrality allowed Spain to enjoy a period of economic stability. The silver extracted from the colonies and converted into 8-reales was crucial to sustaining this stability. These coins circulated internationally, becoming a widely accepted trade currency, especially used in commerce with China via the Manila galleon trade.

By the end of his reign, cobs were gradually replaced by mechanically struck coins to meet the growing need for uniformity and precision in global trade. Today, the 8-reales coins struck during Ferdinand VI?s reign are prized by collectors and stand as a testament to Spain?s influence in global economic affairs during the 18th century.