A digital archive showcasing the extensive collection of jewellery and adornment images shared on the former Ethnic Jewels Ning site over the years. These images have significantly enriched discussions on cultural adornment and its global dispersion.
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While the pendant is probably from Morocco, the coin is Spanish. You can see in coat of arms the castle and lion (Castilla y Leon). It looks like it is 2 pesetas. It says "100 pieces in kilogram", perhaps letting the bearer know that 100 of these make a kilo? How much does it weigh?
Thank you, Hillary. Yes, it is a 2 pesetas piece and weights 12 grams, including the bail. So 100 "piezas" in a kilogram makes perfect sense. Is it still common to find Spanish coins in North African / Moroccan jewellery?
Dear Betty; This is a nice piece - I like it. Did you know that the decoration of the Pillar Dollar was the origin of the US "$" sign? The Pillar Dollar was minted by the Spaniards, in order to compete with the Maria Theresa Thaler. While this coin was well circulated, it never reached the stardom of the Maria Theresa Thaler and therefore, was never minted in the same quantities as the Maria Theresa Thaler. This is why jewelry with the Pillar Dollar are usually valued higher than those with the Maria Theresa Thaler. With kind regards. Peter
Thanks a lot for this most interesting information, Peter. I must admit that I am totally ignorant when it comes to coins. This reminds me that you once recommended a book about the history of the Maria Theresa Thaler. I meant to buy it, but misplaced the reference. If it is not to much trouble, would you perhaps be so kind as to post it it again ? Best regards, Betty.
Dear Betty; Please find below the book in question. It is available on Amazon. With kind regards and best wishes. Peter
A Silver Legend: The Story of the Maria Theresa Thaler - Hardcover – by Clara Semple
Thank you so much Peter!
Hello Betty, I think this is a 2 pesetas Spanish coin from 1870 that was minted during the Provisional Government (1868-1871) that came to govern Spain after Isabel II was dethroned by the "Glorious" revolution. Yes it is still very common to find Spanish coins in Moroccan pieces of jewelry very particularly those from Rif.