Peru Gold 2 Escudos 1855 XF 45

Peru underwent a period of political instability and transformation following its independence from Spain in 1824. This foundational period was marked by internal divisions and power struggles between rival factions, leading to frequent changes in leadership. The country was torn between conservatives, who favored centralized government, and liberals, who advocated for federalism and more democratic reforms. In 1830, the first president, José de la Riva-Agüero, was ousted, and the nation struggled with economic challenges and unrest. The rise of Ramón Castilla in the 1840s brought relative stability, as he restored central authority and modernized the economy, focusing on the development of infrastructure, trade, and the abolition of slavery in 1854. During this time, much of Peru’s revenue came from the export of guano, which was both fertilizer and an ingredient for producing explosives. Despite this period of stability, political tensions persisted. In addition to a civil war in 1865, Peru faced several other military conflicts in the second half of the 19th century, such as the Chincha Islands War and the War of the Pacific.

Obverse: FIRME Y FELIZ POR LA UNION (translation: Strong and Happy for the Union) Standing figure of Liberty.

Reverse: REPUB PERUANA M 2E 21 Q M B 1855; Coat of arms

Reference: KM 149, Fr 65