Spain hosts a diverse group of constituent regions, which over the
centuries (and even to the present day) have sometimes jockeyed for
independence. This World Coin of the Week from our October Collectors Choice
Online Auction reflects one such revolutionary moment, the Cantonal Revolution
of 1873. The desired outcome would have been a group of highly autonomous
Cantons and can be likened to a radical form of federalism – radical in the
sense that it advocated for the redistribution of wealth. This revolution began
in July of 1873 in the southeast region of Cartagena. Government forces
besieged the city, with the fledgling revolution capitulating just six months
later in January of 1874.
During the siege, the revolutionary government requisitioned silver and
minted coinage. Two types were minted, a 2 ½ Pesetas (10 Reales) and a 5
Pesetas (20 Reales). The piece described here is the larger of the two. The
design is rather simple, though well produced given its status as siege
coinage. The obverse features a central design of a small five petaled flower
above “SETIEMBRE / 1873” the outer inscription states: “CARTAGENA SITIADA POR
LOS CENTRALISTAS” (Cartagena besieged by the centralists). The reverse displays
a similar central design: a small five petaled flower above “CANTONAL.” The
outer inscription states: “REVOLUCION” above two rosettes and “CINCO PESETAS”
below. This example has the added interest of rotated dies (130 degrees). Great
strike detail and soft satiny luster provide excellent eye appeal.
We are currently taking consignments of world and ancient coins as well as
world paper money for our January 2018 New York International Auction. We are
also accepting consignments of Chinese and other Asian coins and currency for
our April 2018 Hong Kong Showcase Auction. Time is running short, so if you are
interested in consigning your coins and paper currency (whether a whole
collection or a single rarity) be sure to contact one of our consignment
directors.
