5 Réis - Carlos I Pattern

Historical Context: This 1901 5 Réis Aluminium pattern for the Azores originates from the tumultuous late reign of Carlos I (1889-1908), a period marked by profound political and economic instability for the Portuguese monarchy. The selection of Aluminium, a novel and lightweight metal, signifies an experimental approach to fractional currency. This pattern likely aimed to address specific monetary needs or reduce production costs within the autonomous Azorean archipelago, amidst growing republican pressures.

Artistry: While specific engraver attribution for this Gomes#C1 E1 pattern is typically unrecorded beyond the Lisbon Mint, its stylistic conventions align with early 20th-century Portuguese numismatic art. Designs for Carlos I usually incorporated the crowned Portuguese shield, the monarch's royal cypher, or both, often framed by classical elements. The "pattern" designation implies a design intended for official approval, executed with the formal precision characteristic of royal Portuguese coinage.

Technical/Grading: Critical high-points for grading this Aluminium 5 Réis pattern include the crown's details (if depicted), the intricate elements of the Portuguese shield, and the fine lettering of the denomination and date. Given Aluminium's inherent softness, these coins are highly susceptible to surface abrasions, nicks, and hairlines. Meticulous examination of the fields for contact marks and the edges for handling damage is essential, as patterns often present unique preservation challenges.