Currencies in old Spain were (1) maravedis in copper, (2) reales in silver, and (3) escudos in gold, each with denominations 1/2, 1, 2, 4, and 8. (BTW, modern US coinage follows this denominational pattern, 1/2 = 5 cents, 1 = 10 cents, 2 = 25 cents, 4 = 5 cents, and 8 = 1 dollar.)
The maravedis of king Philippe (Philippvs) III run from 1062 to 1620. VEry approximate values for these coins run like this (for any denomination):
MARAVEDIS
worn: $10 US dollars approximate catalog value
average circulated: $30
well preserved: $100
During the mid-1600s economic troubles caused the currencies to be de-valued and Philippvs coin were counterstamped with new dates and new denominations.
The image to the right shows a genuine counterstamped maravedis with new denomination VIII and new date 1641. Such genuine counterstamped coins are very collectible and sport values similar to the non-stamped coins.
Modern reproductions of these coins have been manufactured recently and made to look old. The image to the left shows a typical fake. These reproductions are essentially worthless; you can buy them for a few cents in novelty and gift shops.
If you are unsure if you have a genuine or counterfeit coin, consult a professional coin dealer or a knowledgeable collector.
Sadly, the example submitted by Tom is one of the fakes.
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