Potosi, Bolivia, medallic 1/2 sol, (1831), America Libre / Republica

Potosi, Bolivia, medallic 1/2 sol, (1831), America Libre / Republica Boliviana, rare, NGC MS 65. Burnett-unl; Fonrobert-unl. 17mm.  Obverse with face of Bacchus inside rays within legend AMERICA LIBRE; reverse with arms inside legend REPUBLICA BOLIVIANA (matching the design of 1831 issues). The Bacchus face (in smiling form) has been a symbol of the Potosi mint since colonial times and a large version hangs over the entrance to this day. Choice full strike on a broad flan with full rims, satin-smooth fields with lovely toning over luster, no marks or wear except on highest points of the Bacchus face, surely finest known.
($300-450)