1,000 Escudos Portuguese Gold Commemorative Coin (9th Centenary of the Birth of King Afonso Henriques)
Coin (Numismatic/Commemorative Bullion) · Yellow Gold (High-purity coinage alloy with warm reddish-orange undertones)
Purity: 91.67% (22K Gold) with 8.33% copper/silver alloy components
Type
Coin (Numismatic/Commemorative Bullion)
Purity
91.67% (22K Gold) with 8.33% copper/silver alloy components
Gold Type
Yellow Gold (High-purity coinage alloy with warm reddish-orange undertones)
Weight
8 grams (Approx. 0.2355 troy oz AGW - Actual Gold Weight)
Description
A prestigious high-relief gold coin celebrating Portugal\'s founding history. The obverse features the national arms and denomination, while the reverse depicts historical icon Afonso Henriques. Its striking golden luster and clean geometric lettering represent the excellence of European minting.
Key Features
Features the face value of 1.000 Escudos, which was the currency of Portugal prior to the adoption of the Euro; distinctive medieval-inspired portraiture of the first King of Portugal.
Color & Finish
Deep lustrous yellow; proof or brilliant uncirculated finish with sharp relief and matte fields
Hallmarks & Stamps
Imprinted with 'REPUBLICA PORTUGUESA', '1.000 ESCUDOS', and denomination; usually bears the INCM (Imprensa Nacional-Casa da Moeda) mint mark
Dimensions Estimate
24 mm diameter with a thickness of approx 1.6 mm
Gemstones & Inlays
None; features struck metal relief designs including the stylised bust of Afonso Henriques
Clasp & Closure
Not applicable; reeded or smooth security edge common for Portuguese commemoratives
Chain & Links
Not applicable; circular planchet with raised protective rim
Craftsmanship Details
Struck using high-pressure dies for sharp definition; excellent depth of field between the mirror-like background and the frosted relief details.
Authentication Indicators
The crispness of the lettering 'REPUBLICA PORTUGUESA' and the specific golden hue of 22K alloy; absence of base metal 'bleeding' at the edges.
Origin & Maker
Portugal; manufactured by the Imprensa Nacional-Casa da Moeda (INCM), the Portuguese Mint
Era & Period
Modern Era (specifically late 20th century commemorative numismatics)
Age Estimate
Circa 1989-2001 (Specific to the 1000 Escudos commemorative series)
Cultural Significance
Represents the transition of Portugal from a kingdom to a modern republic while honoring its 12th-century monarchal roots; serves as a symbol of national identity and economic stability.
Condition Notes
Very Good to Excellent; minor surface hairline scratches visible, likely from storage in a non-capsule environment; no major dings or rim nicks (Approx grade: AU to BU).
Value Estimate
Primarily determined by the current spot price of gold (approx. 90-95% of gold value) plus a collectible premium of 10-20% depending on rarity and demand.
Care & Maintenance
Handle only by the edges to avoid transferring finger oils; store in a PVC-free airtight capsule; do not polish or clean with abrasives as this destroys numismatic value.
Similar Items
South African Krugerrand (same purity but different weight), British Sovereign (smaller), or the modern 5 Euro gold commemoratives.
Interesting Facts
Afonso Henriques was the first King of Portugal, known as 'The Conqueror'; these coins were minted in limited quantities for collectors and often gifted as prestige items in Portuguese families.