Obverse © A.Monge da Silva (CC0)
Real - João III ND
| Copper | 1.2 g | 20 mm |
| Issuer | Portugal |
|---|---|
| King | John III (João III) (1521-1557) |
| Type | Standard circulation coin |
| Years | 1550-1557 |
| Value | 1 Real |
| Currency | Real (1517-1835) |
| Composition | Copper |
| Weight | 1.2 g |
| Diameter | 20 mm |
| Shape | Round (irregular) |
| Technique | Hammered |
| Orientation | Variable alignment ↺ |
| Demonetized | Yes |
| Updated | 2024-10-07 |
| Numista | N#39460 |
|---|---|
| Rarity index | 84% |
The João III ND (1550-1557) coin from Portugal was made of copper, which was a common material for coins during that time period. However, what makes this coin stand out is that it was one of the first coins to feature a portrait of the king, João III, on one side, and an image of the cross of the Order of Christ on the other. This was a departure from the traditional design of coins at the time, which typically featured an image of the king on both sides. This design change was a significant departure from the norm and marked a turning point in the history of coin design.