Catalog
| Issuer | Portuguese notgeld |
|---|---|
| Year | |
| Type | Emergency coin |
| Value | 4 Centavos (0.04 PTE) |
| Currency | Escudo (1911-2001) |
| Composition | Porcelain (white) |
| Weight | 3.55 g |
| Diameter | 24.12 mm |
| Thickness | 4.05 mm |
| Shape | Round |
| Technique | |
| Orientation | Coin alignment ↑↓ |
| Engraver(s) | |
| In circulation to | |
| Reference(s) |
| Obverse description | A person playing a horn on top of a crown-shaped tower and the name of the city below |
|---|---|
| Obverse script | Latin |
| Obverse lettering | GAIA |
| Reverse description | Value in the center, monetary unit below, issuing entity abbreviation C.M.G at 9, 12 and 3 hours, EC stamp (Electro Cerâmica). |
| Reverse script | Latin |
| Reverse lettering | C.M.G 4 centavos |
| Edge | |
| Mint | |
| Mintage |
ND - vidrado; c/ EC - |
| Numisquare ID | 6232967490 |
| Additional information |
Historical Context: This 4 Centavos EC porcelain coin exemplifies Portuguese notgeld, emergency currency from the First Portuguese Republic's economic instability, likely early 20th century. Widespread metal shortages, especially during World War I, compelled local entities to issue provisional coinage. Porcelain, a non-precious and available material, highlights the severe scarcity of traditional currency. "EC" likely denotes a specific issuing body or region, emphasizing its decentralized, urgent origins.
Artistry: Typical of notgeld, this 4 Centavos EC design prioritizes functionality over aesthetics. Given its emergency context and porcelain medium, the engraver remains anonymous. The stylistic approach is utilitarian, focusing on clear legibility for "4 Centavos" and the "EC" issuer's mark. Designs on such tokens are usually simple, featuring straightforward typography, perhaps a basic border or minimal emblem. Porcelain's limitations dictated minimalist relief, reflecting currency needs over artistic embellishment.
Technical/Grading: Grading this porcelain 4 Centavos EC presents unique challenges. High-points, areas of highest relief, are scrutinized for chipping, cracks, or abrasions, common due to porcelain's fragility. "Strike" quality assesses the clarity and completeness of the impressed or molded design on the ceramic. Collectors seek sharp, well-defined lettering and symbols, free from blurs. Surface integrity, including any glaze or inherent smoothness, is critical. The precise 3.55 grams and 24.12 millimeters indicate a controlled emergency production.