2019-11-25 Mon

Alfonso XII was King of Spain reigning from 1874 to 1885. His short reign gave rise to hopes for a stable constitutional monarchy in Spain.

Alfonso was born in Madrid as the eldest son of Queen Isabella II. He received his education at the Theresianum in Vienna and at the Royal Military College, Sandhurst, England. For most of Alfonso’s reign, Spain enjoyed unaccustomed tranquility. Although politically inexperienced, Alfonso XII demonstrated great natural tact and sound judgment, qualities.

On 25th November 1885, Alfonso died, just short of his 28th birthday, at the Royal Palace of El Pardo near Madrid. To date, he is the last monarch of Spain to have died whilst on the throne.

The above shown 5 Peseta issued under his reign. The obverse of a coin depicts the bust of Alfonso XII facing left. On the other hand, the reverse of a coin engraved crowned arms, pillars, value below.

Image Source: Heritage Auctions