20 Réis - João VI Bahia mint

Emisor São Tomé and Príncipe
Año 1819
Tipo Standard circulation coin
Valor 20 Réis
Moneda Real (1799-1910)
Composición Copper
Peso 4.3 g
Diámetro 25 mm
Grosor
Forma Round
Técnica Milled
Orientación
Grabador(es)
En circulación hasta
Referencia(s) KM#D1, Gomes#J6.01.xx
Descripción del anverso Crown divide beaded circle, date and value within
Escritura del anverso Latin
Leyenda del anverso JOANNES.VI.DG.PORTUG.BRAS.ET ALG.REX
(Translation: John VI, King of Portugal, Brazil and Algarve, by Grace of God)
Descripción del reverso Shield within globe
Escritura del reverso Latin
Leyenda del reverso PECUNIA.TOTUM__COMIT.ORBEM
Canto Smooth
Casa de moneda
Tirada 1819 - J6.01.01 - Circle with 47 beads -
1819 - J6.01.02 - Circle with 48 beads -
1819 - J6.01.03 - Circle with 48 beads-PEUNIA(Instead of PECUNIA) -
ID de Numisquare 6813734350
Información adicional

Historical Context: This 1819 20 Réis coin, issued for São Tomé and Príncipe, is a fascinating artifact of the Portuguese Empire under João VI. During this period, the Portuguese court resided in Brazil, making the Bahia mint a significant production center for both metropolitan and colonial coinage. Its issuance for São Tomé and Príncipe, a crucial West African colony, underscores the complex administrative and economic ties maintained across the vast empire, even with the monarchy's relocation to the Americas.

Artistry: The design of this 20 Réis piece adheres to the functional aesthetic typical of early 19th-century colonial Portuguese coinage. While a specific engraver from the Bahia mint is not commonly documented, the style reflects local craftsmanship. The obverse features the crowned monogram 'JVI' for João VI, a standard regal motif. The reverse displays the denomination 'XX' and the date '1819' encircled by a wreath, often with subtle mintmark elements. The overall execution prioritizes clarity and recognition over intricate artistic detail.

Technical/Grading: Struck in copper, the 4.3 gram, 25 mm 20 Réis typically exhibits varying strike quality. Key high-points for evaluation include the intricate details of the crown, the serifs of the 'JVI' monogram, and the individual leaves of the reverse wreath. Due to the nature of copper and colonial minting, expect planchet irregularities, minor flan flaws, and potential weakness in finer design elements. Original luster is rarely preserved, with most examples showing environmental toning or wear consistent with prolonged circulation.

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