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- Product ID: 54875
The Angola 1 Escudo 1956 KM#76 BU is a fascinating coin with historical and cultural significance, produced during a time when Angola was under Portuguese colonial rule. The coin is part of a series that reflects both the monetary system of Portugal's African colonies and the rich heritage of Angola. The 1 Escudo coin was issued in 1956 as part of the standard coinage used within the colony of Angola, which was then a major part of the Portuguese Empire. This particular coin is notable for its design, rarity, and condition, which make it highly sought after by collectors today.
Angola, located in southwestern Africa, was under Portuguese control from the late 15th century until its independence in 1975. During the colonial period, Portuguese-issued currency was used in Angola, including the Escudo, which was the primary currency in Portugal and its colonies for much of the 20th century. The 1 Escudo coin issued in 1956 was part of a series that included coins in various denominations, and it played an important role in the daily commerce of Angola’s population. The coin reflects both the economic conditions of the time and the political dynamics of the Portuguese Empire as it began to experience resistance and movements for independence in the years leading up to Angola’s eventual independence in 1975.
The design of the Angola 1 Escudo 1956 coin is symbolic of the colonial era and includes several elements that reflect Portuguese influences. On the obverse of the coin, there is a detailed depiction of the Portuguese coat of arms, which is prominently featured at the center. The coat of arms features a shield with a complex pattern of symbols that represent the various regions of Portugal and its overseas territories, including Angola. Surrounding the shield is the inscription “República Portuguesa” (Portuguese Republic), which ties the coin to Portugal’s national identity. This design reflects the authority of the Portuguese government and its colonial reach in Africa during the mid-20th century. The reverse of the coin is simpler, displaying the denomination “1 Escudo” along with the year of issue, 1956. The coin's design is understated yet meaningful, reflecting the colonial relationship between Portugal and its African territories during that time.
The mint responsible for producing the 1 Escudo 1956 coin was the Casa da Moeda, the official mint of Portugal, which had been in operation for centuries. The Casa da Moeda was responsible for minting coins for both Portugal and its overseas territories, including Angola. The coin was struck in a copper-nickel alloy, giving it a solid and durable appearance that was typical of coins of that era. The minting process used during the production of these coins ensured that each piece was struck with clarity and precision, allowing the intricate design details to be well-defined and easily recognizable. This is particularly important for collectors, as it ensures that the coin retains its historical and artistic integrity over time.
The mintage of the 1956 Angola 1 Escudo coin is not as high as some other coins from the period, which contributes to its appeal to collectors. Although the exact mintage figures for this coin are difficult to pin down, it is known that fewer coins of this particular issue have survived in pristine condition due to the passage of time and the circulation of the coin in Angola. This gives the 1 Escudo 1956 coin a degree of rarity that enhances its value among numismatists and collectors of African colonial coins. Its limited mintage, combined with the historical context of the time, makes it a desirable piece for those seeking to expand their collections with unique and historically significant items.
The condition of the Angola 1 Escudo 1956 coin is an important factor when evaluating its value and desirability. The coin is considered to be in Brilliant Uncirculated (BU) condition, which means it has been preserved in an almost flawless state since its production. The BU grade indicates that the coin has been carefully handled and stored, ensuring that the design and surfaces remain sharp and free from significant wear or damage. This high grade is especially valuable for collectors who seek coins in exceptional condition, as the preservation of the original minting details is crucial to both aesthetic appeal and investment value. The BU condition of the coin makes it a highly prized item for collectors who appreciate the coin’s historical significance and pristine appearance.
Given the coin’s BU condition and historical context, the Angola 1 Escudo 1956 is a valuable addition to any collection of colonial African coins. Collectors who specialize in Portuguese colonial issues, African numismatics, or historical coins will find the Angola 1 Escudo coin to be an intriguing and valuable piece. The coin’s design, minting, and rarity contribute to its importance in the context of 20th-century colonial history. Furthermore, the fact that it was minted by Portugal’s official mint and issued for circulation in one of Portugal’s most important African colonies only adds to its historical weight and collectible appeal.
In summary, the Angola 1 Escudo 1956 KM#76 BU coin is a fascinating and historically significant piece that reflects both the colonial era in Africa and the Portuguese Empire’s influence. Its design, minting, and rarity make it a valuable and sought-after coin for collectors of African colonial numismatics. The coin’s high-quality BU condition ensures that it remains a desirable piece for both collectors and investors, and its limited mintage adds to its exclusivity and value. With its detailed design, striking appearance, and connection to an important period in African and European history, the 1956 Angola 1 Escudo is an exceptional coin that offers both aesthetic and historical value to those fortunate enough to add it to their collections.