Vintém – João III (R-L at each side of “Y”, Lisbon) ND (1521-1554) front Vintém – João III (R-L at each side of “Y”, Lisbon) ND (1521-1554) back
Vintém – João III (R-L at each side of “Y”, Lisbon) ND (1521-1554) photo
Obverse © A.Monge da Silva (CC0)

Vintém – João III R-L at each side of “Y”, Lisbon ND

 
Silver (.917) 1.9 g 20 mm
Description
Issuer
Portugal
King
John III (João III) (1521-1557)
Type
Standard circulation coin
Years
1521-1554
Value
1 Vintém = 20 Réis (Reais)
Currency
Real (1517-1835)
Composition
Silver (.917)
Weight
1.9 g
Diameter
20 mm
Shape
Round (irregular)
Technique
Hammered
Orientation
Variable alignment ↺
Demonetized
Yes
Updated
2024-10-07
References
Numista
N#39468
Rarity index
92%

Reverse

Y under a crown
Letters "R" and L at each side

Lettering: IOANES 3 R:PORTVGALIEA

Comment

The Vinténs are, in first place, classified by the crowned “Y”, secondly by the crowned shield and finally by the lettering.

Interesting fact

The Vintém coin was used as a form of currency in Portugal during the reign of King João III (1521-1554) and was equivalent to one-twentieth of a cruzado, which was the standard unit of currency at the time. The coin was made of silver and weighed 1.9 grams, with a diameter of 17-18 millimeters. The obverse side of the coin features the king's name, "João III," while the reverse side features the coat of arms of Portugal, which includes the famous "R-L" symbol at each side of the "Y" mintmark, indicating that it was minted in Lisbon. It's interesting to note that the Vintém coin was used during a time of great change and expansion in Portugal, as the country was becoming a major maritime power and establishing colonies around the world. The coin's design and materials reflect the wealth and influence of the Portuguese Empire during this period.