Historical Context and Purpose of Issue
- The 200 Escudos 1994 coin, “Treaty of Tordesillas / Division of the World” series, was issued by the Portuguese Mint (Imprensa Nacional – Casa da Moeda, INCM) as part of a commemorative series on Portuguese discoveries.
- It commemorates the 500th anniversary of the 1494 treaty, which divided the known world between Portugal and Spain — the famous “division” of newly discovered territories.
- The coin symbolically recalls this milestone of Portuguese maritime expansion, featuring iconography related to navigation and overseas routes.
Physical Characteristics and Design
According to numismatic catalogs:
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Denomination | 200 Escudos |
| Year | 1994 |
| Composition | Cupronickel (standard version) |
| Weight | 21.33 g |
| Diameter | 36 mm |
| Thickness | ~2.8 mm |
| Edge | Reeded (serrated) |
| Mint | INCM, Lisbon |
Obverse: features the Portuguese coat of arms on the left, a stylized map of Europe and Africa with a compass rose and navigation lines, symbolizing maritime routes. Legend reads: “200 esc REPÚBLICA PORTUGUESA 1994 INCM – A. MARINHO.”
Reverse: shows a map of South America intercepted by the demarcation line defined by the treaty, flanked by the coats of arms of Portugal and Spain. On the right, a 16th-century Portuguese carrack is depicted. Legend reads: “A PARTILHA DO MUNDO 1494.”
Circulation Status
- This is a commemorative coin — legally valid but produced in a special edition for circulation and collectors.
- After the adoption of the euro, escudo coins, including commemorative series, were demonetized.
Numismatic Value and Collecting
Mintage and Availability
- The standard cupronickel version had a mintage of approximately 950,000 pieces.
- There is also a collector’s silver version — a more limited edition issued by the INCM with special finish (not intended for circulation).
Current Market Value (Indicative)
- For the standard cupronickel version, prices typically range from ~US$2.30 to US$3.50, depending on condition (Very Fine to Uncirculated / Extremely Fine).
- In Portuguese collector markets, it is often listed around €4, with prices depending heavily on the coin’s condition.
- The silver version or special editions can be worth significantly more, especially if they come with the original case and INCM certificate.
Factors Influencing Value
- Condition: Coins in “Mint” condition are worth more; worn coins are less valuable.
- Version: Cupronickel (common) vs. silver collector edition — silver is more sought-after.
- Original case/certificate: Coins kept with the original case and certificate are more valuable.
- Collector demand: Coins related to Portuguese discoveries and the Treaty of Tordesillas are appealing, but not extremely rare. Higher mintage keeps prices moderate.
Conclusion: Why This Coin Matters
The 200 Escudos 1994 “Division of the World” coin combines historical significance — reflecting Portuguese maritime expansion and the division of territories in the 15th century — with accessible collectible value. For collectors of Portuguese coins, it is a symbolic piece representing the Age of Discoveries, ideal as an introductory coin in a commemorative collection.
Coins in good condition (without wear, scratches, or signs of handling), especially in special editions with the original case or certificate, can command higher value — particularly for collectors who appreciate the historical story behind the coin.
