Catalog
| Issuer | Brazil |
|---|---|
| Year | 1749 |
| Type | Standard circulation coin |
| Value | 4000 Réis |
| Currency | Real (1654-1799) |
| Composition | Gold (.917) |
| Weight | 8.06 g |
| Diameter | 27 mm |
| Thickness | |
| Shape | Round |
| Technique | Milled |
| Orientation | Medal alignment ↑↑ |
| Engraver(s) | |
| In circulation to | |
| Reference(s) | KM#164, Bentes#117.01 |
| Obverse description | Coat of arms topped by crown, value 4000 and three flowers. |
|---|---|
| Obverse script | Latin |
| Obverse lettering |
IOANNES. V. D. G. PORTVG. REX. (Translation: João V, by the Grace of God, King of Portugal.) |
| Reverse description | Saint George`s cross flanked by ornaments and date. |
| Reverse script | Latin |
| Reverse lettering |
ET. BRASILIAE. DOMINVS. ANNO 1749 (Translation: and Lord of Brazil, year 1749.) |
| Edge | Reeded. |
| Mint | |
| Mintage |
1749 - Bentes 117.01 - |
| Numisquare ID | 1010726080 |
| Additional information |
Historical Context: This 4000 Réis coin, struck in 1749, belongs to the reign of João V of Portugal, a period known as Portugal's "Golden Age" due to immense wealth from Brazilian gold. Intended for the State of Grão-Pará and Maranhão, a vital northern Brazilian administrative region, this coin highlights the colony's economic significance. Produced by the Lisbon Mint, these issues underscore central control over colonial currency, with gold being the bedrock of Portuguese imperial power and international trade.
Artistry: The design adheres to the prevailing Baroque aesthetic of the mid-18th century, characteristic of Portuguese royal coinage. The obverse prominently features the crowned coat of arms of Portugal, often with elaborate mantling, symbolizing royal authority. The reverse displays the Cross of Christ, a powerful emblem of the Order of Christ, foundational to Portuguese exploration and colonization. Legends denote the monarch's title, denomination, and date, executed with precision by the skilled artisans of the Lisbon Mint.
Technical/Grading: Struck in .917 fine gold, this 8.06 gram, 27mm diameter coin exhibits typical minting characteristics of its era. High-points for wear or strike weakness include the crown's details, the top elements of the shield on the obverse, and the central boss and extremities of the Cross of Christ on the reverse. Lisbon Mint gold issues generally display a robust strike, though minor planchet imperfections or slight weakness on the highest relief areas can be observed, consistent with period technology. Its considerable gold content ensured its value.