The Copiapó Peso of 1865 is a rare Chilean coin issued during a period of political unrest in the northern mining city of Copiapó. Struck in silver of exceptionally high purity, these pieces are considered “revolutionary restrikes” connected to the blockade of Puerto de Caldera in 1865. They were not part of Chile’s regular national coinage but rather local emergency issues, making them historically significant as symbols of regional autonomy and resistance.
From a metrological standpoint, the coin is notable for its precision: it has a denomination of 1 Peso, a weight of 22 grams, a diameter of 35 millimeters, and a silver fineness of .970. Catalogued as KM #4, the obverse bears the Chilean shield with the legend “COPIAPO I P CHILE”, while the reverse shows the date 1865. The high silver content gives the coin a bullion value of around $30–35, but its rarity and historical context elevate its numismatic value to several hundred dollars depending on condition.
Today, the Copiapó 1865 Peso is prized among collectors for both its scarcity and its link to Chile’s turbulent mid-19th century politics. With a Numista rarity index of 83, it is considered difficult to obtain, and surviving examples are often restrikes rather than original siege issues. Authenticity and grading are crucial, as counterfeits exist, but genuine specimens remain a fascinating blend of monetary history and metallurgical craftsmanship. Yes of course I have the upside down shield variety from an Ex. Sedwick auction. Hello?
