Piece of Eight Pirate Challenge coin Freemason Masonic, 1.75", Antique Gold

Description

I designed this coin to look similar to a "Piece of Eight" dating back to the 17th and 18th centuries. These "Pieces of Eight," also known as Spanish dollars or "real de a ocho" since they were valued at 8 Spanish reales, were all struck by hand, leading to irregularities and imperfections that, to many people today, gave them character. These coins were also the primary monetary system during the "Golden Age of Piracy" in the late 1600's-early 1700's. I took time to study the different coins that were in circulation during this era, and chose the one that I felt was best suited to the purpose of the design I had in mind. I then used that as a template to incorporate the various design elements that I wanted to include.
The obverse of the coin contains some of the most recognizable elements that people associate with Pirates: Cutlasses, Cannons, and of course, the Skull with an Eyepatch. I arranged these elements to form a variation of the Masonic Square and Compasses, all backed by a compass rose, the eternal symbol of those who navigated the high seas. Masons will note that the reverse of the coin contains a plethora of Masonic symbols and references. I won't go into them here, but if you are a traveling man, I'm sure you'll see them!
The coin comes in an antique silver finish. The choice of this finish gives the coins a much more "aged" appearance, and also helps to bring out greater detail in the design. Please note that the coins are not actually made of silver; that would make them extraordinarily expensive! These coins are made of metal and plated with a silver colored metal, then treated give them the aged appearance and bring out the detail.
Condition is New. Domestic Shipping via USPS, International shipping via eBay Global Shipping Program only.