CVC & Collectables presents a rare and historically rich silver Tostão struck under King Manuel I of Portugal, minted in Lisbon between 1504 and 1521. Certified NGC (Clipped), this hammered coin reflects the artistry and maritime ambitions of Portugal during the height of its global expansion. Struck in high-purity silver, the Tostão (or Teston) was a crucial denomination in early modern Portuguese commerce.
Coin Highlights:
- Country: Portugal
- Ruler: King Manuel I (“The Fortunate”)
- Date: Circa 1504–1521
- Mint: Lisbon
- Denomination: 1 Tostão (Teston)
- Currency System: Real (100 réis)
- Metal: Silver (.916 fine)
- Weight: ~8.00 g
- Diameter: ~28 mm
- Grade: NGC (Clipped) – edge trimmed as common for circulated hammered coins
- Reference: Gomes E1 44
Obverse:
- Design: Crowned Portuguese royal shield, value “V” (5) at right, ringlet at left
- Legend: I : EMAИVEL : R : P : ET : A : D : GVIИE
- Translation: Emmanuel, King of Portugal and the Algarve, by the Grace of God, of Guinea
Reverse:
- Design: Cross of the Order of Christ in center with stars in each quadrant
- Legend: IN HOC SIGNO VINCES
- Translation: “In this sign you will conquer” – a motto linked to Constantine and adopted by crusading orders like the Order of Christ
Collectibility:
Silver hammered coins of Manuel I are scarce, particularly with full legends and clean detail. While this example is clipped, a common occurrence for the era, it retains strong devices and legibility. A valuable addition for collectors of early modern Europe, Portuguese colonial coinage, or Age of Discovery numismatics.
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