Many families keep old coins in drawers or forgotten boxes without imagining that some can be worth much more than the amount inscribed on their face. In Portugal, there are rare copies that arouse the interest of collectors and who, in specialized auctions, reach prices of thousands of euros.
According to Doctor Finance, Portuguese Portal of Financial Literacy, factors such as rarity, year of emission, coinage errors and conservation state determine the value of a currency. When the circulation has been limited or few exemplars left in circulation, the price shoots in the numismatic market.
Examples of valuable Portuguese coins
Among the rarest is the 1 penny coin of 1922 in bronze. According to the same source, there are only six known specimens and one of them was sold at auction for about 85 thousand euros.
Another remarkable case is that of the 50-cent currency of 1925, in bronze-aluminum, whose price may vary between 1 500 and 7 500 euros, depending on the condition. Doctor Finance also adds that shield coins in perfect condition, especially commemorative editions, are among the most sought after.
Jornal Económico, a Portuguese reference in the economic and financial sector, reported that, in a collection evaluated in 25 thousand euros, was a gold coin of 6 400 réis dated 1802, known as “jar”.
Also the National Press – House of Mint (INCM) has published catalogs that document the emission of commemorative coins since 1910, demonstrating the diversity and relevance of these pieces for collectors.
How to identify if you have a rare piece
Evaluating coins is not limited to looking at the wedge year. It is essential to observe whether there are print or cutting errors, analyze the condition and compare with recognized numismatic catalogs. According to Doctor Finance, aggressive cleaning can devalue the piece, so the recommendation is not to polish or shave.
Anyone who suspects having a rare currency should look for numismatics experts. Auction houses and specialized platforms, such as Portugal Coins, offer evaluation services and can issue certificates of authenticity.
Where to sell safely
The sale should be made through credible channels, such as recognized auctions or numismatics houses with proven history. Explains what, when opting for digital platforms, care should be redoubled to avoid fraudulent schemes.
A hobby that can generate income
Numismatics is, for many, more than one hobby. Storing rare currencies can prove a long term investment. Pieces that seem insignificant today may be worth considerable sums, especially if they are preserved in good condition.
Before spending or discarding old coins, look carefully. A coin forgotten in a drawer can become an unexpected opportunity, joining the history of Portugal with the value of the present.
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