Clipped 4 Reales
16th century ・ silver ・ 16th century ・ Mexico City Mint
The irregular edge of the cob created the temptation for clipping. Even if a small piece of the edge was cut off, it was difficult to notice because the shape was originally uneven. The secretly clipped silver could be melted down and kept as bullion. A silver coin that was supposed to be accepted by weight was, in fact, underweight. The piece shown is a four-reales from the reign of Philip II, found in Kent, England, and is pictured with a ruler as in an archaeological record photograph. It was not until 1732 that the edges were finally secured with a milled, decorative border to prevent clipping.