MYKOYNS
Philippine Numismatics
Home / Philippine Numismatics Collectors Hub / Collecting Philippine Coins / Collecting Spanish-Philippine Copper Coins in the Philippines (1728–1835)
PHILIPPINE Numismatics Collectors Hub
Collecting Spanish-Philippine Copper Coins in the Philippines (1728–1835)
This section outlines the technical and observable characteristics of Spanish-Philippine copper coinage, including key specifications, design elements, distinguishing features, and notes related to authenticity.
For a broader historical overview of this series, visit its related history page in the Philippine Currency Timeline.
Quick Reference
-
Coin Type: Copper
-
Minting Period: 1728–mid-19th century
-
Primary Metal: Copper
-
Common Denominations: Barilla, Quarto, Octavo
-
Production: Locally commissioned or produced in Manila under colonial authority
-
Availability: Barilla coins are extremely rare and infrequently encountered, Quarto coins are scarce but periodically available, while Octavo coins are comparatively more accessible, though all remain limited in surviving examples.
Identification Features
-
Barilla
The commonly found 1766 Barilla is described as about 18 mm and as having a design that appears to divide the Manila coat of arms between obverse and reverse.
Obverse
-
Obverse details include a castle inside a circle, topped by a crown, with the inscription “Ciudad de Manila.”
Reverse
-
Reverse details include a sea lion holding a sword on a shield, also topped by a crown.
Notes on Early Barilla Issues
-
The 1728 Barilla is described as controversial, with some believing it may be a token or counterfeit.
-
The 1728 example is described with the coat of arms of the City of Manila on the obverse and a blank reverse.
-
Early Barilla issues often feature a prominent letter “B.”
-
Barillas are also described as having simple markings or letters rather than elaborate royal designs.
-
Octavo
The octavo is described as approximately 18 mm in diameter, and both the octavo and cuarto bear the inscription “VTRUMQ VIRT PROTEGO.”
Obverse
-
Its obverse is described as carrying the Spanish coat of arms and the name of the reigning monarch.
Reverse
-
Its reverse is described as a sea lion wielding a sword above two globes.
-
Quarto
The Quarto is described as similar in design to the Octavo but larger, at about 22 mm. Beginning in 1798, the shield on the coat of arms is described as flanked by stars on both Octavo and Quarto issues.
1805 Quarto
-
Quartillo
The Quartillo is as a silver coin rather than part of the locally struck copper series. Its design is simple: lion on one side and castle on the other with no inscription, mint mark, or date.
Diagnostics and Distinguishing Notes
-
Many Spanish-Philippine copper coins do not display explicit denomination markings.
-
Denomination are often distinguished by size, weight, and recognizable design types.
-
Some coins may share similar designs, making physical dimensions important in distinguishing types.
-
Numerous die varieties and minor design variations are noted.
-
Significant differences in weight, strike quality, and fabric are evident, likely resulting from private contract production.
-
Later Octavo and Quarto issues can be recognized by stars flanking the shield, a feature introduced around 1798.
Authentication Notes
-
The 1728 Barilla is regarded as controversial, with some sources suggesting it may represent a token or a counterfeit issue.
-
Barillas are also vulnerable to counterfeiting because of limited oversight.
-
Copper coins in general are also susceptible to counterfeiting and unofficial reproduction because of their simple design and low intrinsic value.
-
Surviving examples are often heavily worn due to frequent circulation, which can complicate evaluation.
Authentication and Market Caution
Due to the known prevalence of counterfeiting among Spanish-Philippine copper coins, caution is advised when evaluating raw (uncertified) examples in the market. While some pieces may be genuine, verification can be challenging based on appearance alone. When possible, authentication through a third-party grading service (TPG) is recommended to help confirm authenticity and provide additional confidence for collectors.
References & Sources:
Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas – "History of Philippine Money."
Ocampo, Ambeth R. "Yaman: History and Heritage in Philippine Money." Manila: Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas, 2020.
University of Notre Dame. "Spanish Coinage Circulating in the Colonies"
Larreal, Hussein. "How the 8 Reales Became a World Currency." CoinsWeekly.
Wikipedia Contributors. "Spanish Dollar." Wikipedia.
Wikipedia Contributors. "Milled Coinage." Wikipedia.
Selected numismatic articles, auction archives, and collector references used for comparative study.
Continue Your Collecting Journey:
-
Explore more collecting guides: Collecting Philippine Coins
-
Browse all collector topics: Philippine Numismatics Collectors Hub
-
Understand the historical context: Philippine Currency Timeline
Published Date: 4/04/2026