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4 Xerafins São Tomé - José I Goa mint
| Issuer | Portuguese India |
|---|---|
| Year | 1775 |
| Type | Standard circulation coin |
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| Reverse description | Central motif consists of a bold floriated cross with trefoil terminals occupying the majority of the field, with the date 1775 divided across the lower portion, numerals flanking the base of the cross. A circular legend in Latin runs along the full periphery reading QUATRO XEREFINS, separated by small decorative stops. The reverse exhibits the characteristic uneven strike of hammered coinage from the Goa mint, with the legend occasionally partially weak at the rims. |
| Reverse script | Latin |
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| Additional information |
The xerafim denomination was a Portuguese adaptation of the existing monetary system in Goa, derived from the local Konkani term for a silver currency unit already in use before the Portuguese consolidated control over the city. By José I's reign, gold xerafins were being struck at the Goa mint in small quantities for ceremonial and high-value commercial transactions tied to the Estado da India's increasingly strained trade network. José I himself took little direct interest in colonial administration — effective governance of Portugal and its empire during this period rested almost entirely with the Marquis of Pombal.
The Gomes census records only a single confirmed die marriage for this type.