LXXX Reais 'Real Português Dobrado' - João III Single cross, Lisbon

Historical Context: Issued during the reign of João III (John III), King of Portugal from 1521 to 1557, this LXXX Reais 'Real Português Dobrado' coin dates to the zenith of the Portuguese maritime empire. From 1555-1557, Portugal commanded vast global trade networks, particularly in spices, driving significant economic prosperity. This silver denomination reflects a stable and powerful monetary system supporting an empire stretching from Brazil to Japan, underscoring João III's role in consolidating Portuguese global influence.

Artistry: The specific engraver for this Lisbon mint issue remains unrecorded, a common circumstance for 16th-century Portuguese coinage. Stylistically, the coin adheres to a traditional heraldic design, characteristic of the era, rather than the more elaborate Renaissance portraiture seen elsewhere. The 'single cross' motif, central to its designation, likely dominates one side, possibly representing the Order of Christ. The design would be complemented by the monarch's name and title, often in a gothic or early Roman script, and the mintmark.

Technical/Grading: Struck in .9166 fine silver, weighing 7.3 grams and measuring 30 millimeters, this coin exhibits typical characteristics of hand-struck production from the period. Key high-points for grading would include the center and extremities of the prominent single cross, as well as the clarity of the surrounding legends and any armorial details. Variations in strike quality, such as minor off-centering, planchet irregularities, or areas of weaker impression, are common and expected for these issues, reflecting the minting technology of the mid-16th century.