Regulated 8 reales
Date1763
Mint
Potosi Mint
Regulated by
Philip Syng, Sr. (1676-1739)
MediumSilver
DimensionsWeight: 413 grains
Credit LineGift of the Lasser Family
Object number2004-8,43
Label TextLarge silver coins were all too scarce in 18th century America, and many were found to be too light. Since the value of a particular piece depended on it having precise amount of precious metal, American goldsmiths and silversmiths found clever ways to bring underweight coins up to par. A hole was punched through this piece and a silver plug, of a predetermined weight, was peened (or riveted) into place, thus accomplishing the task. To signify the job was properly done, well known Philadelphia silversmith Philip Syng symbolically approved the piece by striking his mark directly over the plug. The legal process of altering the weight of a coin was known as "regulating."
MarkingsStruck with the "PS" mark of Philip Syng.
1740
1744
1752
1718
1545-1554
1677
