Spanish Copper Currency 1841

A Spanish 3 Cuartos copper coin dated 1841, struck during the early reign of Queen Isabella II of Spain (Isabel II, r. 1833–1868), representing mid-19th century provincial bronze coinage issued under the constitutional monarchy. This denomination formed part of Spain’s small change currency system during a politically turbulent era marked by the Carlist Wars and internal administrative reform.

The obverse displays the crowned Spanish coat of arms with quartered shield elements representing Castile (castle), León (lion), Aragon (vertical bars), and Navarre, with Bourbon-Anjou central escutcheon, encircled by the legend “ISABEL II POR LA G. DE DIOS Y LA CONST.” The date 1841 appears prominently below the shield. The inscription references Isabella II by the Grace of God and the Constitution, reflecting the constitutional framework established after the death of Ferdinand VII.

The reverse features a crowned oval shield with vertical stripes (Aragonese arms) within a beaded border, flanked by laurel branches. Surrounding legend reads “REINA DE LAS ESPAÑAS,” and the denomination “3 CUARTOS” appears at the base. The cuartos denomination was widely used in everyday commerce throughout mainland Spain and played a significant role in local market transactions.

The coin exhibits circulated surfaces consistent with copper alloy issues of the period, with visible patina and areas of oxidation typical of 19th-century Spanish bronze coinage. Despite wear, the primary heraldic devices, date 1841, and denomination remain identifiable, preserving its historical attribution.

This 1841 Spanish 3 Cuartos coin represents an authentic example of early Isabella II monetary history and appeals to collectors of Iberian coinage, 19th-century European copper currency, Spanish constitutional-era issues, and small denomination provincial coinage. It provides a clearly dated specimen from a formative period in modern Spanish state development.