1753-Pq Bolivia Silver 8 Reales NGC MS-62

This coin is a Spanish colonial 8 reales, or “pillar dollar” dated 1753 and minted under King Ferdinand VI (1746–1759) at the Potosí mint (mintmark “P”) in Bolivia. Likely a “pillars and waves” cob, it predates the milled columnario coins introduced in 1767.

Obverse: Features a crowned quadrilobe with the quartered cross of Jerusalem and arms of Castile and León, surrounded by an abbreviated Latin legend, likely “FERDINANDVS VI D G HISPAN ET IND REX” (Ferdinand VI, King of Spain and the Indies). The assayer’s initial “q” (e.g., Domingo de Quintanilla y Lares) and denomination “8” may appear, depedning upon how well struck the coin is and it's present state-of-preservation.

Reverse: Shows two crowned pillars of Hercules over waves, with “PLUS ULTRA” (Further Beyond) on banners. A three-line inscription includes the mintmark “P,” assayer “q,” and “8,” within a beaded circle and legend “VTRAQUE VNUM” (Both Are One).

Specifications: Weighs 27.06 grams of 0.931 silver (25.18 grams pure), with a 33 mm diameter, typical of irregular cob coins.

Rarity: Thousands were minted annually, but surviving examples are scarce, with dozens to low hundreds per year/assayer in collectible condition (e.g., Very Fine). Values range from $350–$650 for common dates.

Significance: A global trade currency, it influenced the U.S. dollar. Its crude design and historical role make it a numismatic gem. 

Product ID	555687
Year	1753
Mint Mark	Pq
Strike	MS
Grade	MS-62
Variety	-
Grading Agency	NGC
Specification properties	No
Serial	5780856002
Status	Active
Designation	-
Additional Info	-