Argentina 2 Reales 1844 Argentina, one of the largest and most diverse nations in South America, has a rich numismatic tradition that reflects its complex political development, struggles for independence, economic fluctuations, and national pride. From its earliest colonial coinage under Spanish rule to the complex and varied modern issues, Argentinian coins provide a fascinating chronicle of the country's evolving identity. This essay presents a comprehensive exploration of Argentina's coins and numismatics, beginning with the colonial period, progressing through the struggle for independence, the development of the national mint, the major coin issues of the 19th and 20th centuries, and concluding with contemporary coinage and the state of Argentinian numismatics today. I. The Colonial Era: Spanish Rule (16th Century – 1810) The Spanish Minting System Before achieving independence, what is now Argentina was part of the Spanish Empire, administered under the Viceroyalt...
