Lot 4987

Sale 85 · Important Australian & World Coins, Medals & Banknotes

Description

Identity disc on a Mexican silver eight reales (c.1827-1897), reverse with impressed counterstamp "George J. Blake/H.M.A.S. Pioneer/R.C./Ch Sto/No 7098/R.A.N." inscribed over the earlier name "J.Blake/AB/CH OF E/2510 HMAS Pioneer". Fine and rare.

Together with research. Almost certainly a piece from the SMS 'Emden'. The HMAS 'Pioneer' called at Cocos Island in mid January 1914, seven weeks after the Sydney/Emden action. Personal affects, badges, coins, watches etc were taken as souvenirs by the victors. The crew of the 'Emden' would soon have been relieved of their Mexican dollars. They would of course not have appeared on any inventory of booty. See "Pioneer - Battle Lady of the Sea" by W.J. Mira (Australian Coin Review - March 1984 and June 1984).

Estimate
$400
Result Status
Sold
Prices Realised
$1,600

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