Spanish coin or fake??? Need some advice

[jjg70]

While we were in florida hunting the beaches, my buddy found this coin. It appears to be gold plated because the plating is coming off around the edges. Its about 1-3/4" diameter. There appears to be a cross on one side with something in each corner of the cross. He ordered an acid test kit to check to see if its real gold and to try and determine what the core is made of. we are trying to figure out the best way to clean it, so far just soaking it in water and lightly using a soft toothbrush is getting some of it. If anyone has a better method we would appreciate ideas on cleaning. Thanks

[Diver_Down]

Was this found between A Street and Ocean Trace in St. Augustine?

What you have is a fake Spanish coin. Looks like the countless fakes that are sold to 10 year old kiddies in this town. With documented ties to pirates in St. Augustine's history, every souvenir shop sells them on the beach and St. George St.

[jjg70]

Diver_Down, it was found around St. Augustine

[Diver_Down]

Diver_Down, it was found around St. Augustine

The reason why I mentioned the specific area is because I noticed 2 guys cruising the lane south of A Street (way before the Ocean Trace access ramp) on the same morning when you mentioned that you were coming up this way. For what it is worth, I've found many of these souvenirs in the same area. The area is very popular with vacation rentals.

[History Detective]

It really looks old to me...especially with what looks like small sea shells attached...and I would have leaned in favor of it being a shipwreck piece but when you mentioned gold plating coming off of it...hummm...
I would have to concur w/ the previous post...its really hard to get around the plating part...no authentic spanish coin has ever been plated as far as I know...