PERU. Cob 4 Escudos, 1700-L H. Lima Mint. Charles II. NGC MS-63+
Fr-2; KM-25; Cal-930. Weight: 13.44 gms.
A remarkable artifact from the waning days of Spain’s Habsburg dynasty, this 1700 Lima-minted 4 Escudos gold cob is an extraordinary survivor of both history and catastrophe. Struck during the final year of King Charles II’s turbulent reign, this coin is a tangible link to a period of political instability and imperial decline.
Charles II of Spain (1661–1700)—often called El Hechizado ("The Bewitched")—ruled during an era marked by economic struggles, rampant corruption, and dynastic uncertainty. Born physically and mentally frail due to generations of Habsburg inbreeding, Charles' reign saw Spain’s influence wane as rival European powers challenged its dominance. By 1700, the Spanish Empire was in crisis, and his death without an heir triggered the War of the Spanish Succession (1701–1714)—a conflict that reshaped the balance of power in Europe. This coin, minted in the gold-rich Andes of Peru, represents one of the final issues under Habsburg rule before the Bourbon dynasty took control.
This specimen is an NGC MS-63+, ranking as the second finest certified of its date, with only one graded higher (MS-65). However, the piece graded in 65 (which we also have listed) is not pedigree to the Fleet, therefore this piece is the highest graded Fleet 1700 4 Escudos. It boasts exceptionally bold strike details, featuring a nearly round planchet with a full and clearly defined date, mintmark, assayer’s initial, and denomination. The reverse presents a strikingly sharp cross framed by full lions and castles, symbolizing Spain’s dominion over its vast empire. The coin's surfaces gleam with an attractive pale gold luster, well-preserved despite the passage of centuries.
Adding to its historical allure, this gold escudo is a survivor of the legendary 1715 Fleet shipwreck. In one of the most infamous maritime disasters of the Spanish colonial era, a convoy of eleven treasure-laden galleons bound for Spain was obliterated by a violent hurricane off the coast of Florida on July 31, 1715. The fleet, carrying untold riches from the New World—including gold cobs like this one—was nearly completely lost, with thousands of lives claimed in the disaster. The wreckage scattered along the Florida coast, drawing treasure hunters for centuries. Today, artifacts from the 1715 Fleet are among the most sought-after relics of Spanish maritime history.
With its historical significance, exceptional preservation, and direct connection to both the final days of Habsburg Spain and one of the greatest lost treasures of the Americas, this 1700 Lima 4 Escudos is a true numismatic treasure—a piece of gold that has defied time and tragedy.