Which Doubloons Weigh More: Pre-1728 or Post-1728?
Which Doubloons Weigh More: Pre-1728 or Post-1728?
The question of whether doubloons made before 1728 weigh more than those made after 1728 is an interesting one. Let's explore and explain the reasoning behind it.
Final Answer:
Doubloons made before 1728 weigh more.
Explanation:
Doubloons made before 1728 weigh more due to differences in historical manufacturing practices and metal compositions. Prior to 1728, doubloons were typically made from high-quality gold, with a standard weight of around 6.77 grams (0.217 troy ounces). The Spanish doubloon, for instance, was a well-known gold coin used in international trade.
After 1728, the coinage reform in various countries led to the adoption of the gold standard, where coins were minted with a standardized weight and fineness. These newer doubloons were produced to be lighter and more consistent. For example, the Spanish doubloon minted after 1728 was replaced by the Escudo, which weighed about 3.38 grams (0.108 troy ounces), half the weight of the older doubloon.
In summary, doubloons made before 1728 were generally heavier because they were crafted from higher gold content and without the strict standardization that came into practice later.