Spanish Piece of Eight Cob Coin with Certificate of Authenticity

This item is a 17th-century Spanish silver 'cob' coin, identified as a Piece of Eight, accompanied by a 'Certification of Artifact' from the Conch Coin Company. The coin itself is a Four Reals denomination, weighing approximately 12.9 grams. It features an irregular, hand-struck shape characteristic of 1600s silver cobs, which were crudely fashioned from cross-sections of silver bars. The metal displays a dark, aged patina typical of salvaged sunken treasure. According to the document, the coin dates to the reign of King Philip of Spain. It is housed in a clear protective sleeve alongside a small identification card and a larger formal certificate with artifact number 1785. The certificate includes illustrations of galleons and technical specifications typed onto the form, including the mint location in Spain and a grade of 'Fine'. While the coin shows significant wear and an uneven strike that obscures certain details of the coat of arms and cross, its irregular 'macuquina' style remains highly visible, indicating its origin as colonial currency. The documentation suggests it originated from a maritime archaeological context or shipwreck recovery.