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The Portugal 5 Centavos 1924 KM#572 is a fascinating historical artifact that provides a window into Portugal's economic and numismatic history during the early 20th century. This small coin carries with it a wealth of information about Portugal's past, from its design and minting to its condition and mintage.
The 1920s were a time of change for Portugal. The country had transitioned to a republic in 1910, marking the end of the monarchy. This coin, minted in 1924, reflects the new political landscape and the nation's adoption of a decimal currency system.
On the obverse of the coin, you'll find the Portuguese coat of arms, featuring five smaller shields arranged in a cross pattern, symbolizing Portugal's historical ties to Christianity. Above the coat of arms is the inscription "REPUBLICA PORTUGUESA," emphasizing Portugal's status as a republic.
Below the coat of arms is the denomination "5 CENTAVOS." The use of centavos as the denomination underscores Portugal's adoption of this decimal currency system, with 100 centavos equaling 1 escudo. This made transactions more straightforward and aligned Portugal's currency system with international standards.
Turning to the reverse of the coin, you'll find a stylized Portuguese ship sailing to the left. This design element, often referred to as the "Barco" (ship), is a nod to Portugal's rich maritime history and exploration. It pays homage to the nation's Age of Discovery, during which Portuguese explorers like Vasco da Gama and Ferdinand Magellan played pivotal roles in mapping uncharted waters and establishing trade routes to far-flung regions of the world.
This coin was likely produced at the Portuguese mint in Lisbon, the country's capital city. Skilled engravers and craftsmen meticulously created the coin dies and supervised the striking process to ensure the highest quality of production.
Regarding mintage figures, coins of this type were typically minted in significant quantities to meet the demands of everyday commerce. These coins played an essential role in facilitating transactions for goods and services, both domestically and internationally.
The Portugal 5 Centavos 1924 KM#572 has a weight of approximately 2.5 grams and a diameter of around 21 millimeters. It is typically composed of bronze or a similar alloy chosen for its durability and resistance to wear. This composition ensured that the coin could withstand the rigors of circulation.
When evaluating the condition of a coin, collectors often rely on a grading system that ranges from Poor (P) to Mint State (MS). The Portugal 5 Centavos 1924 coin is typically found in AU (About Uncirculated) condition. AU coins exhibit minimal wear, with well-preserved details and an overall sharp appearance, indicating limited circulation and careful handling.
An intriguing fact about Portugal's history during this period is its role as a colonial power. Portugal had an expansive colonial empire that spanned regions in Africa, Asia, and South America. This colonial presence had far-reaching cultural, economic, and political implications, significantly shaping Portugal's identity and global influence.
In conclusion, the Portugal 5 Centavos 1924 KM#572 is a valuable numismatic specimen that offers valuable insights into Portugal's history during the early 20th century. Its design reflects Portugal's republican era, maritime heritage, and decimal currency system. Minted in Lisbon, widely circulated, composed of durable materials, and often found in AU condition, this coin serves as a tangible link to an era when Portugal was undergoing political change and still celebrated its rich exploration legacy.