In the 16th century, the American Continent had different currencies, however, it was until 1535 when the Royal Mint of Mexico was founded through the Royal Certificate issued by the Spanish Crown.
In 1536 the casting tests were carried out, giving life to the first coins known as "Carlos y Juana". These pieces were scarce due to their very traditional production process since they were made manually with a punch and hammer.
The pieces of "Carlos y Juana" are differentiated according to their visual elements:
The first series of Carlos and Juana coins is characterized by:
-Its typography and gothic elements.
-It does not have a wave design at the bottom of its motif (that is why they are known as "without water").
-These pieces were produced from 1536 to 1542.
2 reales (reverse) Mexico. without date. Assayer R. Plata.
1 real (reverse) Mexico undated. Essayer F. Plata.
The second series of coins:
-It has more information and details.
-They have a line of sea waves under the columns. They are known as "Carlos and Juana" with water
-They were produced from 1542 to 1572
1 real (reverse) .Mexico. Without date. Assayer G. Silver. Perforate
2 reales (reverse). Mexico. Without date. Assayer A. Plata.
References
Banco de México (2001). Mexican Coinage. Milan, Italia. Arturo Chapa y Landucci Editores.
Casa de Moneda de México. (1989). La Casa de Moneda de México a más de 450 años. México D.F.: Porrua Editores.
Casa de Moneda de México (1989). Primeras Memorias de La Casa de Moneda de México. México D.F.Porrúa Librero-Editor.