Real - João III ND (1550-1557) front Real - João III ND (1550-1557) back
Real - João III ND (1550-1557) photo
Obverse © A.Monge da Silva (CC0)

Real - João III ND

 
Copper 1.2 g 20 mm
Description
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
References
Numista
N#39460
Rarity index
84%

Reverse

Script: Latin

Lettering:
IO*III
R.P.A.

Comment

Law 16OCT1550

Interesting fact

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.