Portuguese India Coins
The monetary history of Portuguese India is fascinating and reflects the colonial influence in the region. From the 16th century to the mid-20th century, Portugal maintained control over several enclaves in India, notably Goa, Daman and Diu, where unique coins and banknotes circulated that are of great interest to numismatists.
Coins used in Portuguese India
For centuries, the main currency in circulation was the rupee, which coexisted with other Portuguese denominations. In the 19th century, coins were minted specifically for Portuguese India, such as the silver rupee and its fractions. These pieces usually bore the Portuguese coat of arms on the obverse and the face value on the reverse, often with inscriptions in Portuguese. In the early 20th century, bronze and nickel coins were introduced, maintaining similar designs but adapted to the new materials.
Milestones in Portuguese Indian Numismatics
An important milestone was the introduction of the Portuguese escudo as the official currency in 1958, replacing the rupee. This change was short-lived, as in 1961 India annexed the Portuguese territories. Another relevant aspect is the issuance of specific banknotes for Portuguese India by the Banco Nacional Ultramarino, which began in the 19th century and continued until the 1950s. These banknotes, with elaborate designs and texts in Portuguese, are now highly sought after pieces by collectors, representing a unique chapter in the numismatic history of the region.
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Portuguese India is a country that does not exist today. It is now part of the India coins.
The most valuable coins
The most valuable Portuguese India coins and sought after by collectors according to Foronum statistics are the following:
The valuation of these coins has been achieved through a meticulous algorithm that considers the current market, taking into account aspects such as material, weight, diameter, edge, year of mintage, mint of manufacture and the number of coins produced. Coins with limited mintages and in good condition are usually among the most valuable.
Coin Catalog
1/12 tanga
1/8 tanga
1/4 tanga
1/2 tanga
1 rupia
1 rupia
1 tanga
2 tangas
4 tangas
1 rupia
1/2 rupia
1 tanga
1/4 rupia
1/2 rupia
1 rupia
1 tanga (60 reis)
1 rupia
10 centavos
30 centavos
60 centavos
Other resources to find coins and banknotes of Portuguese India
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