1868 Spain 50 Céntimos de Escudo Silver Coin VF25 | Queen Isabella II | KM 652

Issued during the final year of Queen Isabella II's reign, this 1868 Spanish 50 Céntimos de Escudo is an important transitional silver issue struck just months before the Glorious Revolution of 1868 forced the queen into exile and brought an end to the Bourbon monarchy's uninterrupted rule. These coins represent the closing chapter of Spain's pre-decimal monetary system and remain a favorite among collectors of 19th-century European coinage.

The obverse features the right-facing portrait of Queen Isabella II wearing a laurel wreath and ribbon, surrounded by the legend "ISABEL 2A. POR LA G. DE DIOS Y LA CONST." ("Isabella II, by the Grace of God and the Constitution"). The reverse displays the crowned Spanish coat of arms flanked by the historic Pillars of Hercules, with the denomination "50 Cs DE PESO" below and the inscription "REINA DE LAS ESPAÑAS" ("Queen of the Spains") surrounding the design.

This example is graded Very Fine 25 (VF25) with even, honest circulation wear throughout. The legends remain bold and fully readable, while the portrait, wreath, coat of arms, pillars, and crown retain strong central detail. Light handling marks and natural cabinet toning are present, consistent with a lightly circulated mid-grade example that has not been materially impaired.

Struck in .835 fine silver, the 50 Céntimos de Escudo contains approximately 0.3356 troy ounces of pure silver and represents one of the final silver denominations issued under Isabella II before Spain adopted the peseta as part of the Latin Monetary Union.

Specifications

• Country: Spain
• Date: 1868
• Monarch: Queen Isabella II
• Denomination: 50 Céntimos de Escudo
• Catalog Number: KM 652
• Composition: .835 Fine Silver
• Weight: 12.50 grams
• Actual Silver Weight: 0.3356 Troy oz
• Diameter: 30 mm
• Edge: Reeded
• Mint: Madrid
• Grade: Very Fine 25 (VF25)