Peru (Republic). Beautiful Silver 8 Reales Coin. Mint Place: Lima Reference: KM-140.10. Denomination: 8 Reales Material: Silver (.903) Weight: 28.81gm Diameter: 39mm Obverse: Stanging togate and capped figure of liberty, holding cap-topped stick and large shield with “LIBERTAD” inscription. Legend: FIRME Y FELIZ POR LA UNION Reverse: Wreath above split shield of Peru, flanked by sprays. Legend: REPUB * PERUANA * M (LIMAE in monogram ) * 8R * 10Ds . 20Gs . M * B * 1842 * Peru declared its independence in 1821 and the city of Cusco maintained its importance within the administrative structure of the of the country. Upon independence, the Department of Cusco was created and at the time maintained authority over territory extending to the Brazilian border. The city of Cusco was made capital of the department and subsequently became the most important city in the south-eastern Andean region.