Continuing from the previous post, this time we introduce one of the highly sought-after coins among collectors: the Spanish 20 Reales trial copper coin featuring the portrait of Isabel II.

The Accession of Isabel II

When Ferdinand VII passed away in 1833, his daughter Isabel II ascended to the throne according to his will. However, the Salic Law, which was introduced with the establishment of the Bourbon dynasty in Spain, only allowed male heirs to inherit the throne (Before the Salic Law, females could inherit the throne, as seen in the case of Isabel I.)

As a result, Ferdinand VII's brother, Carlos, rebelled against Isabel II's accession. Those who supported Carlos were known as Carlists, and this conflict became known as the Carlist Wars.

At the time of her accession in 1833, Isabel II was only three years old, so her mother, Maria Cristina, assumed political power as regent. To counter the conservative Carlists, Maria Cristina strengthened ties with the liberal factions. With the military and court largely on her side, Maria Cristina’s forces dominated the civil war, ultimately defeating the Carlists.

However, after the Carlists’ defeat, Maria Cristina sought to suppress the liberal factions and consolidate her power. This led to repeated military uprisings, and Spain remained politically unstable for an extended period.

The September Revolution and Isabel II’s Exile

Isabel II reached adulthood in 1843 and began to exercise her own political power. However, her capricious appointment of ministers and her scandalous private life caused her to lose the trust of the military.

In 1868, the military and progressives staged a coup, forcing Isabel II into exile in France. The liberal forces introduced reforms such as the guarantee of basic human rights and universal male suffrage, which came to be known as the September Revolution in Spain.

Subsequently, Isabel II abdicated in favor of her son, Alfonso XII. However, the question of succession led to intervention by both France and Prussia. The rivalry between the two countries deepened, contributing to the outbreak of the Franco-Prussian War.

Conclusion

Spain's history is deeply complex, influenced by interventions from major powers like France, as well as ongoing internal conflicts and coups.

Antique coins are a precious way to symbolize such intricate histories in a single piece. Unlike coins meant for circulation, trial coins are produced in limited quantities, making them highly rare and valuable. If you're a collector, you may want to consider adding one to your collection.

May your antique coin journey bring you good fortune!