The Coins of Spanish Africa: Tracing the Numismatic History of Spain’s Territories and Colonies on the African Continent

A Brief Overview of Spanish Africa Spanish Africa refers to the territories and colonies under Spanish control on the African continent from the 15th to the 20th century. Spain had a significant presence in Africa, particularly in areas such as the Canary Islands, Western Sahara, Spanish Guinea (now Equatorial Guinea), Spanish Morocco, and Ifni. The…

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Spanish Colonial Coinage: A Comprehensive Guide to the Coins and Currency Circulating in Spanish America, from the Conquest to Independence

The Early Days: From Conquest to the First Mints The Spanish conquest of the Americas in the early 16th century led to the need for a stable currency system. Initially, the Spanish used cobs, irregularly-shaped silver coins that were crudely cut and hammered, as the primary form of currency. These cobs were produced in Spain…

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