4 Tangas - Filipe III Goa, date obverse, MA

Historical Context: This 4 Tangas coin, dated 1633, was issued for Portuguese Malacca during the reign of Filipe III of Portugal (Philip IV of Spain), a period of the Iberian Union. Malacca, a vital Southeast Asian port, faced increasing threat from Dutch and English expansion. This silver issue signifies continued Portuguese sovereignty, under the Spanish crown, in a crucial trading hub, reflecting the broader economic and political struggles of the Portuguese colonial empire.

Artistry: The coin's design adheres to the prevailing Iberian colonial numismatic style, often referred to as "Goa" style due to its commonality in Portuguese India. While no specific engraver is recorded, the artistry typically features a crowned royal monogram or shield of Filipe III on the obverse, accompanied by the date 1633, and the denomination and mintmark "MA" (for Malacca) on the reverse. The aesthetic is characterized by robust heraldry, reflecting monarchical authority, rather than intricate portraiture, typical of colonial issues.

Technical/Grading: Struck in silver, this 4 Tangas coin measures 30 mm in diameter and weighs 12 grams. Colonial issues from this period often exhibit variable strike quality, including weak centers, uneven planchets, and minor off-center strikes, due to minting technology limitations. Key high-points for grading typically include the crown details, the intricacies of the royal shield or monogram, and the legibility of the legends and date. Well-preserved examples with strong strikes and minimal wear are highly sought after by collectors.