1754-G J Guatemala Gold 8 Escudos NGC AU-53

We are delighted at AUCM to present an exceptional rarity from Spanish America: a Guatemala Ferdinand VI 8 Escudos of 1754G-J, graded NGC AU53. Struck at the Guatemala mint (now Antigua), this coin (KM#7; Calico 551) ranks among the finest known examples of this extremely rare issue—likely a full grade superior to the Norweb specimen sold in 1985. Research and photo comparisons suggest it may be the renowned Eliasberg piece, distinguished by its superior eye appeal and rich coppery-gold patina. Notably, 1754 marked the introduction of machine-struck Guatemalan 8 Escudos, replacing crude cob-style edges with proper rims. It was also the first year to feature Ferdinand VI’s true bust, rather than the continued use of Felipe V’s portrait from prior years. Xavier E. Calico’s La Onza notes that very few specimens of this 1754G-J issue survive.

The Guatemala mint was a latecomer to Spanish America’s coinage system. Approved by Felipe V via a 1731 royal decree following petitions from New Spain’s viceroy and Guatemala’s bishop, it relied on Mexico for equipment and expertise. Old mint machinery and a team led by assayer José Eustaquio de León (assayer mark “J”) arrived in 1733, with trial pieces soon produced and full operations beginning in 1738. Hammer-struck coins continued under Felipe V until Ferdinand VI dies arrived in 1746. A 1751 decree mandated mechanized production, and this coin—first released March 29, 1754—represents the mint’s inaugural use of the new technology, underscoring its dependence on Mexico. The obverse features the distinctive early bust design (small head, widening chest), retained longer in the New World than in Spain.