Pierced 1/2 Real Coin
Date1809
OriginMexico, Mexico City
MediumSilver
Object numberT035-2020,4
Description1/2 Real coin minted in Mexico City in 1809 with piercingLabel TextRecovered at the site of the tin shop behind the Mary Stith House, this coin features Ferdinand VII, King of Spain in 1808 and 1813-1833. Gold and silver coins from around the world were traded regularly in early America since the weight of the metal was more important than the origin or denomination.
Deterioration and warpage around the piercing in this coin suggest that it was worn, perhaps as a protective amulet. That practice is well documented in both enslaved and free Black communities.
Unusual for her time, Mary Stith freed and then hired her former enslaved people, who continued to live on her property. Her 1813 will left much of her estate to these men and women, including sisters Jenny and Patty Gillett.
InscribedFront: "DEI GRATIA 1809 FERDIN VII"; Back: "HISPAN ET IND R M T H"
