Regulated 4 escudos
Date1746
Mint
Santa Fe de Bogota
Regulated by
Joseph Richardson, Sr. (1711-1784)
, Sr. & Jr.
MediumGold
DimensionsWeight: 204.1 grains
Credit LineGift of the Lasser Family
Object number2004-8,47
Label TextGold coins were extremely scarce in 18th century America, and many were 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 gold 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 Joseph Richardson, Sr. symbolically approved the piece by striking his mark directly over the plug.
At some point after his father regulated this coin, Joseph Richardson, Jr. struck his mark in the center of this piece too, showing his subsequent approval of the piece. As such, this coin may have spent a long time circulating in that part of Pennsylvania.
MarkingsStruck with the "IR" marks of both Joseph Richardson Sr. and Jr.
1713
1725
ca. 1504
1677
February 8, 1788