Spain 2 Pesetas (Provisional Government)
Country of Origin: Spain (Kingdom/Provisional Government)
Year of Issue: 1870
Denomination: 2 Pesetas
Composition: Silver (.835)
Brief Description
A silver-colored coin featuring a reclining female figure on the obverse and the Spanish coat of arms with the Pillars of Hercules on the reverse.
Historical Significance
Following the 1868 Glorious Revolution and the exile of Queen Isabella II, the Provisional Government introduced the Peseta as the new national currency in 1869, adopting the specifications of the Latin Monetary Union.
Estimated Value
$15 - $40 in heavily weathered or damaged condition; $150 - $400 in About Uncirculated condition; much more if the tiny star dates are clear.
Care Instructions
Do not attempt to clean this coin. The visible corrosion or residue ('gunk') should only be treated by a professional conservator. Store in a PVC-free flip or capsule to prevent further surface degradation.
Mint Mark
M within a star (Madrid Mint). Real date found in the 6-pointed stars on the obverse.
Mintage & Rarity
Approximately 1,515,484 minted for 1870. Common as a type, but high-grade examples or specific star-dates (eg. '73' or '74') are much rarer.
Weight & Diameter
10.00 grams, 27.0 mm
Edge
Reeded
Apparent Grade
Poor/Heavily Corroded. While the devices are visible (Fine detail), the surfaces are severely compromised by environmental damage, staining, or a possible base-metal cast replica appearance.
Obverse (Front)
Hispania reclining against the Pyrenees mountains, holding an olive branch. 'ESPAÑA' above, date '1870' below. Two small stars on the sides contain the actual year of mintage.
Reverse (Back)
Crowned Spanish coat of arms between the Pillars of Hercules. Legend '100 PIEZAS EN KILOGRAMO' and '2 PESETAS'. Mint masters' initials usually D.E. or SN M.
What Drives This Coin's Value
Condition is the primary factor. For this specific type, the tiny digits stamped inside the stars on the obverse determine the actual rarity, as coins dated '1870' were restruck in later years (1873, 1874).
Similar Coins
The 1869 2 Pesetas (much rarer) and the 5 Pesetas (larger diameter) utilize the same design motifs.
Authenticity & Counterfeit Red Flags
Authentic silver coins should have a specific ring weight and 'ring' when tapped. The grainy texture and uneven dark spots on this specific item are typical of cast counterfeits or extreme environmental damage; professional weighing is recommended.
Notable Varieties & Errors
Varieties are defined by the year digits inside the stars (e.g., 70, 73, 74, or 75).
Created At: 2026-04-21T11:52:42.684156