ARCE’S DOUBLOONS by Daniel F. Sedwick delivers the most complete die study ever published on Colombian 2 escudos gold cob coins. This fully illustrated, 132-page reference examines coins struck at the Bogotá mint between 1692 and 1714 in the name of Charles II of Spain.
First, the book analyzes hundreds of surviving examples to establish a precise chronological sequence of dies. These hand-struck doubloons originated during the tenure of assayer Buenaventura de Arce Penagos, a period marked by political instability and rising Caribbean piracy. Notably, Charles II’s death in 1700 sparked the War of the Spanish Succession, which deeply affected Spanish colonial coinage.
Next, the study connects many of these coins to the wrecks of the Spanish 1715 Fleet off Florida’s east coast. Modern divers recovered most known examples from these sites. Many now reside in the State of Florida Collection, which the author examined extensively during his research.
Importantly, the book reveals previously undocumented characteristics. These findings include muling with 1 escudo dies, retrograde and transposed characters, and evidence of a secret debasement. Together, these discoveries reshape the current understanding of Bogotá gold cob production.
After a detailed introduction, the book organizes the coins into three clear chapters: lifetime issues (1692–1699), transitional issues (1700–1704), and post-transitional issues (1703–1714), including half-transitional overlaps. Each chapter features obverse and reverse die diagrams, concise summaries, and photographs of every known die combination. Two appendices expand the analysis to Philip V Arce 2 escudos and all Arce 1 escudos dated 1692–1722.
Arce’s Doubloons will be available in person at the F.U.N. Show from January 7–10. An official launch follows at the 1715 Fleet Society event in Vero Beach on January 12. Online sales will begin after the NYINC on January 19.
Order today at sedwickcoins.com to secure your copy.
