Catalog
| Issuer | Cape Verde |
|---|---|
| Year | 1949 |
| Type | Standard circulation coin |
| Value | 50 Centavos (0.50 PTE) |
| Currency | Portuguese Escudo (1914-1975) |
| Composition | Nickel brass |
| Weight | 4.5 g |
| Diameter | 22.8 mm |
| Thickness | 1.65 mm |
| Shape | Round |
| Technique | Milled |
| Orientation | Coin alignment ↑↓ |
| Engraver(s) | |
| In circulation to | |
| Reference(s) | KM#6, Gomes#CV 05.01 |
| Obverse description | Miniature crown above the coat of arms. date below |
|---|---|
| Obverse script | Latin |
| Obverse lettering |
COLONIA·DE·CABO·VERDE 1949 (Translation: Colony of Cape Verde) |
| Reverse description | |
| Reverse script | Latin |
| Reverse lettering | REPUBLICA PORTUGUESA 50 CENTAVOS |
| Edge | Reeded |
| Mint | |
| Mintage |
1949 - - 1 000 000 |
| Numisquare ID | 2048092560 |
| Additional information |
Historical Context: Issued in 1949, this 50 Centavos coin from Cape Verde falls within the Estado Novo period of Portuguese rule, under António de Oliveira Salazar. Post-World War II, Portugal solidified its colonial empire, resisting global decolonization. This coinage series marked a significant monetary development for Cape Verde, its first distinct circulating currency since the 18th century, asserting metropolitan authority within the Portuguese Escudo system.
Artistry: The design is attributed to the Casa da Moeda (Portuguese Mint) in Lisbon, reflecting the robust official aesthetic of Portuguese colonial coinage. The obverse features the traditional Portuguese shield, with five escutcheons and seven castles, surmounted by a crown, framed by