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The Portugal 10 Reis 1885 KM#526 is a captivating historical coin that offers valuable insights into Portugal's monetary and cultural history during the late 19th century. This coin, struck in 1885, possesses a rich history, an intriguing design, and a tangible connection to the past.
During the late 19th century, Portugal was undergoing significant political and social changes. The country was transitioning from a monarchy to a republic, a process that culminated in the establishment of the Portuguese First Republic in 1910. However, the coin in question predates these major political developments, representing an era when the Portuguese monarchy was still in power.
The obverse of the coin features a portrait of King Luís I of Portugal facing right. This regal depiction of the monarch serves as a symbol of the authority and influence of the Portuguese monarchy during this period. Surrounding the king's image is the inscription "LUIS I REI DE PORTUGAL," reaffirming his royal status.
On the reverse of the coin, you will find the denomination "10 REIS" enclosed within a wreath of laurel leaves. This design emphasizes the coin's practical purpose as a small denomination intended for everyday transactions. The usage of reis as the denomination reflects Portugal's historical currency system, which featured various denominations based on the reis unit.
This coin was likely minted in Lisbon, the capital city of Portugal, where the national mint was located. Skilled artisans and engravers meticulously crafted the coin dies and supervised the striking process to ensure the highest quality production.
While specific mintage figures may vary, coins of this type were typically produced in substantial quantities to meet the demands of everyday commerce. The widespread circulation of such coins was crucial for the functioning of the economy, as they facilitated transactions for goods and services among the general population.
The Portugal 10 Reis 1885 KM#526 coin has a weight of approximately 1.6 grams and a diameter of about 16 millimeters. It is typically composed of copper, a commonly used material for lower denomination coins during this period due to its affordability and suitability for circulation.
When evaluating the condition of a coin, collectors often refer to a grading system that ranges from Poor (P) to Mint State (MS). The Portugal 10 Reis 1885 coin is typically found in VF (Very Fine) condition. VF coins exhibit moderate wear but retain clear details and overall appeal, reflecting their history of use in everyday transactions while preserving their aesthetics.
One interesting historical fact about Portugal during this era is its colonial empire, which extended across Africa, Asia, and South America. Portugal's colonial presence had significant cultural, economic, and political impacts, shaping the nation's identity and global influence.
In conclusion, the Portugal 10 Reis 1885 KM#526 is a remarkable numismatic artifact that provides a glimpse into Portugal's history during the late 19th century. Its design reflects the authority of the monarchy, and its likely minting in Lisbon, substantial mintage, copper composition, and VF condition collectively contribute to its historical and numismatic significance. This coin serves as a tangible link to an era when Portugal was undergoing political changes but still retained elements of its historical monarchy and currency system.