Obverse: the design of a star is depicted, reflecting the eight original parts of the Spanish dollar. Each corner of the star on this 1-ounce silver round shows 8 partial measurements, with each part marked 1/8 ounce and .999 fineness.
Reverse: at the top is the engraved inscription PRAEDATUM IN MUNDO (English: predatory world), defining the human struggle with nature to extract this rare and precious metal, but also the violent clashes of civilizations over control of the world’s riches. The reverse features an Aztec-inspired lower edge, symbolizing the powerful American Indian empires that arose long before European discoveries. The ocean and sky, seen in the background of the "Silver Shield Pieces of Eight" coin reverse, reflect the dangerous seas that claimed many men who sought this magnificent treasure.
About the coin: this is the first modern silver coin honoring both the original Spanish "Pieces of Eight" silver pieces and pirate legends. The eight swords of the "Silver Shield Pieces of Eight" series represent the 8 great colonial powers that fought countless wars to conquer the world: Spain, England, France, Portugal, Denmark, Netherlands, the USA, and Belgium. They fought on foreign lands for the natural resources of poorer nations.
