Spanish Legacy in America

The Royal Spanish Mint has created several coins to commemorate Spain’s support of the American colonies during the Revolutionary War. Released in conjunction with the United States’ 250th anniversary, the 2025 series consists of three sterling silver 8-real coins. 

A full-color depiction of a bald eagle soaring above intertwined United States and Spanish flags appears on the obverse of the first coin. The reverse features Carlos III of Spain and George Washington. The obverse of the second issue includes both the obverse and reverse design of the first American dollar, while the reverse displays the iconic columnario of the Spanish dollar, or piece of eight, that served as the basis for the first American dollar. Lastly, the final 2025-dated release depicts sailor and soldier Jordi Farragut on the obverse. Born in Menorca (an island off the Spanish coast) during British occupation, he fought alongside American colonists in the Revolution. He distinguished himself in battles at Savannah, Charleston, and Cowpens and is said to have saved one of George Washington’s cousins. The reverse highlights the port of Mahón, a key commercial hub in the Mediterranean.

The 2026 Series

The Royal Spanish Mint will release seven more coins in 2026: five 8 reales; a 4-escudos gold coin with a face value of 200 euros; and a colored, sterling silver cincuentín (50 reales) with a face value of 50 euros.

Prominent Spanish individuals who contributed to America’s independence will appear on the obverses of four of the 8 reales: General Bernardo de Gálvez, Admiral Luis de Córdova, Admiral José Solano y Bote, and Royal Commissioner Francisco de Saavedra y Sangronis. The reverses show the Battle of Pensacola, the Santísma Trinidad ship, a fleet of ships, and a depiction of Lord Cornwallis’s surrender at the victory of Yorktown. Additionally, a reproduction of the Isabella quarter appears on the obverse of the final 8-reale coin, as well as the gold 4-escudo coin, and both reverses feature portraits of Washington and Carlos III. The cincuentín showcases a full-color depiction of Washington on a boat with portraits of Washington, Carlos III, Gálvez, Córdova, Solano y Bote, and Saavedra y Sangronis on the reverse.

All commemoratives are available on the Royal Spanish Mint’s website.