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The Portugal 10 Reis 1884 KM#526 in VF (Very Fine) condition is a captivating numismatic specimen with a rich history, a unique design, specific physical attributes, minting details, and a glimpse into Portugal's past. The history of the Portugal 10 Reis 1884 KM#526 is deeply rooted in the late 19th century when Portugal was undergoing a period of political and economic transformation. In 1884, Portugal was a constitutional monarchy under the reign of King Luís I, who ruled from 1861 to 1889. During his reign, Portugal was modernizing its coinage system, transitioning from the older reis-based currency to the escudo. The 10 Reis coin represented a fractional denomination of this transitional currency.
One of the most striking aspects of this coin is its unique design. On the obverse, you will find the portrait of King Luís I, facing right. The detailed engraving of the king's profile captures the essence of his reign. Above the portrait, the inscription "LUIS I" is displayed, identifying the monarch. Below the portrait, the date "1884" is engraved, marking the year of mintage. On the reverse side of the coin, the design features Portugal's national coat of arms. The coat of arms consists of a central shield with five smaller blue shields inside it, each displaying five small white dots. This intricate design represents Portugal's historical connection to its founding counties. Surrounding the central shield are various decorative elements, giving the coat of arms an ornate and regal appearance.
The Portugal 10 Reis 1884 KM#526 has a relatively small size, with a diameter of approximately 17 millimeters and a weight that is consistent with its denomination. These physical attributes make it a manageable and charming coin to collect and appreciate. As for its composition, the coin is typically made of bronze or a bronze-like alloy. During this era, bronze was a popular choice for coinage due to its durability and resistance to corrosion, ensuring that these coins would remain in circulation for an extended period.
The coin was minted in Lisbon, the capital of Portugal, which was home to the country's main minting facility. This mint had a rich tradition of producing coins that reflected Portugal's evolving history and coinage reforms. When it comes to mintage figures, the exact number of coins produced in 1884 is not readily available. However, coins of this denomination were often minted in significant quantities to facilitate daily transactions.
Examining the condition of the Portugal 10 Reis 1884 KM#526, we find it to be in VF (Very Fine) condition. This means that the coin exhibits moderate wear, with visible details and legends still present but showing signs of use. VF coins have a balanced appearance, making them a desirable choice for collectors who appreciate coins with character.
Portugal is known for its rich maritime history and exploration during the Age of Discovery. Portuguese explorers like Vasco da Gama and Ferdinand Magellan made significant contributions to global exploration and trade during the 15th and 16th centuries. The legacy of these explorers is celebrated in Portuguese culture and history.
The Portugal 10 Reis 1884 KM#526 in VF condition is more than just a coin; it's a tangible piece of Portugal's history and transition to a modern coinage system. Its historical context, unique design featuring King Luís I and the national coat of arms, small size and weight, bronze composition, mint of origin, and VF condition all contribute to its numismatic appeal. This coin provides a window into a bygone era of Portuguese monarchy and serves as a testament to the country's rich heritage and exploration legacy.