1724-32J Gold Escudo Philip V- Bar End Cross, Straight Bar in Arms NGC AU50

Struck in the Spanish colonial mint at Nuevo Reino de Granada (modern-day Colombia), this gold 1 Escudo dates to the reign of Philip V, the first Bourbon king of Spain. These coins circulated widely across the Spanish Americas and Europe, forming part of the backbone of colonial trade. The “Bar End Cross” type is a distinctive variety in early Colombian gold, with easily recognizable stylistic features that appeal to both collectors and specialists in Spanish colonial numismatics. Minted during a turbulent period of dynastic change and imperial reform, this escudo reflects Spain’s efforts to consolidate control over its vast New World holdings.

Obverse: Features a crowned Habsburg-Bourbon shield, identifying Philip V as King of Spain and the Indies. The shield is bordered by an ornate design and flanked by the mintmark “J” (Santa Fe de Bogotá) and assayer’s initials.

Reverse: Displays the Jerusalem Cross with broad bar ends, a defining feature of this type. The cross sits within a quatrefoil with beaded borders, and the arms contain a straight central bar—a key diagnostic for this subtype. The legends and symbols emphasize royal legitimacy and Christian authority.

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Bar End Cross, Straight Bar in Arms. The Only Example graded by PCGS or NGC!! Extremely Rare. 3.337g