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Las Casas de Indias: Exploring American Mints and Colonial Coinage History at Casa de la Moneda Museum

Delve into the fascinating journey of silver 'reales de ocho' and their design evolution since 1535.

The "Las Casas de Indias" exhibition at Casa de la Moneda Museum delves into the origins and operations of mints across the Americas, established from 1535. It highlights their significant role in colonial economies and the diverse coin types produced. Discover the 'reales de a ocho' and its symbolic designs, from the Pillars of Hercules to the 'columnario' motif that influenced early US currency, offering a detailed look into numismatic history.

About Las Casas de Indias at Museo Casa de la Moneda in Madrid

Read curatorial context and practical visitor information for Las Casas de Indias at Museo Casa de la Moneda in Madrid

Exhibition summary

This exhibition delves into the history of mints established in the Americas from 1535 onwards, including Mexico, Santo Domingo, Lima, Potosí, and Santa Fe de Bogotá. It showcases the types of coins produced, particularly the silver 'reales de a ocho' or 'peso', and the evolution of their designs.

Curatorial context

The 'Las Casas de Indias' exhibition details the establishment and operation of mints across the Americas, beginning in 1535 with facilities in Mexico and Santo Domingo, and later expanding to Lima and Potosí, Santa Fe de Bogotá. It highlights the types of coins minted, with a particular focus on the 'reales de ocho', also known as the peso or duro. The exhibition showcases the varied coin types, including the royal shield, the arms of Castile and León, and the symbolic composition featuring the Pillars of Hercules with Emperor Charles's motto 'PLVS VLTRA'. It also covers the evolution to the 'columnario' design, depicting two hemispheres over waves and the motto 'VTRAQUE VNUM', which influenced the independent United States' dollar. The text notes the opening of new mints by the Bourbon dynasty in Guatemala, Popayán, and Santiago de Chile. The exhibition is complemented by an audiovisual presentation titled 'La moneda indiana'.

Admission and ticket notes

The page provides general visitor information and links to the museum's visit section, but does not offer specific ticketing details for this exhibition. It's implied that access might be part of general museum admission or a guided tour, but this is not explicitly stated for this particular display.

Las Casas de Indias key exhibition facts

Review exhibition status, schedule, venue context, and attribution details for Las Casas de Indias at Museo Casa de la Moneda in Madrid

Venue
Museo Casa de la Moneda
Current status
Open now
Exhibition schedule
Information not currently available
Artist line / attribution
Information not currently available
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