From ancient Portuguese colonies to the Middle Ages and the Republican period, Portugal has a rich and compelling history of currency. And now, in our Portuguese Coins themed auction, we are excited to present a collection of 120 exceptional coins from across the entire Portuguese numismatic period. The selection features everything from proofs - an early sample of a coin before it’s been widely issued - to gold coins from the Portugal Monarchy. Starting Friday, 23rd February (2018), the auction features a selection coming from a private collector, and is sure to delight and ignite the interests of even the most experienced collectors. So how did this exciting collection come to auction? And what should buyers be looking out for? Helder Silva, one of our in-house Coins experts is one of Portugal's largest currency experts and has over 15 years of professional experience. Here, he explains more about the auction and delves into why it’s such an exciting collection which is not to be missed!
How These Coins Came to Auction
The collection comes from Ivo Maia, a private collector from the North of Portugal who, like Helder, started collecting coins from very early on. Today, Ivo is an ambassador of The Forum of Numismatics and is well-known within numismatic circles for supplying the best of the best selection of coins. "In terms of condition, the coins in the Portuguese Coins auction go beyond anything we’ve ever seen at Catawiki’s Coin auctions," Helder explains. Now is the right time for Ivo to share these treasures with the coin-loving community, and he believes that selling on Catawiki is the best way to for the most experienced collectors across the world to be able to see and enjoy the collection. Helder adds, "This is a very authentic opportunity to own some classic Portuguese numismatics." There are several extremely important and valuable coins included in this auction, including one which is estimated to sell for over €5,000. But what is it?
A rare 1 Rupee coin will be featured in our themed Portuguese Coins auction
A Unique and Valuable Peça from 1802
One of the most valuable coins up for auction in this collection is the peça (6,400 reis) from 1802. This gold coin was produced in the name of the reigning prince regent in the first year that coins were minted under his name, during some very difficult moments in the history of Portugal. For instance, the prince had to face the very grave international consequences of the French Revolution, which left no room for Portuguese political neutrality. Under the threat of revolutionary France, it became increasingly difficult to safeguard the independence and survival of the Portuguese empire. This exciting history is reflected in this coin, and our in-house expert Helder estimates that it will sell for between €5,500 - €6,500.
The peça (6,400 reis) from 1802 is estimated to sell for between €5,500 - €6,500
Also Feature in the Auction
Many other top quality coins can be seen in this collection including a rare 1 rupee - of which only one other is known - and a 100 escudos coin from 1989. Another curiosity in the collection is the Tornês de Busto coin from D. Fernando's reign (1367-1383). Due to ongoing conflicts within the sovereignty around this period, there were a number of economic difficulties in the kingdom. What was interesting about D. Fernando was that he used his right as the monarch to ‘break’ the Portuguese currency in order to reduce public spending imposed by the war. To do this, he launched various types of currency, already devalued, such as the bearded bust and the bust and shield. Interestingly, the Tornês de Busto coin is an example of the first Portuguese coin denomination to ever feature the figure of a king. Intrigued? You could own this unique coin very soon…
The Tornês de Busto coin was the first ever Portuguese coin denomination to feature the figure of a king
The Portuguese Coins themed auction will start Friday, 23rd February, and end Sunday, 4th March (2018), so don’t miss this incredible chance to own a little slice of Portuguese history. Like the private collector selling this selection, do you have some coins you’d like to sell at auction? Whether you have just one special coin or an entire collection, become a seller and start offering them up for auction. Helder and his team would love to see what you have to offer!
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