Historical and Technical Information
The 250 Escudos coin issued in 1989 commemorates the 850th anniversary of the Battle of Ourique and the founding of Portugal.
- Issuer: Portuguese Republic, minted by the National Printing House – Casa da Moeda (INCM) in Lisbon.
- Catalog Number: KM# 650 in international coin classification.
- Material: Most common version in cupro-nickel.
- Weight: ~ 23.1 g.
- Diameter: 37 mm.
- Edge: Serrated (reeded).
- Legal Status: The coin is demonetized — with the introduction of the euro in Portugal, escudos ceased to be legal tender.
Design
- Obverse: Stylized Portuguese shield — with castles arranged in a cross. Inscriptions: “REPÚBLICA PORTUGUESA”, “VILAR 1989”, “250 ESCUDOS”, and “INCM” (mint mark). Engraver: Irene Vilar.
- Reverse: Design referencing the founding of Portugal and the Battle of Ourique — includes dates “1139 / 1140”, the legend “BATALHA DE OURIQUE – FUNDAÇÃO DE PORTUGAL”, and symbols such as a sword and crescent, evoking the Reconquista era.
The coin’s theme refers to the traditional historical narrative associating the Battle of Ourique (July 25, 1139) with Portuguese independence and the start of nationhood under King Afonso Henriques, Portugal’s first king.
Varieties
In addition to the circulation cupro-nickel version, there is a collector/commemorative version:
- Silver (.925) version, minted in 1989, KM# 650a. Weight about 28 g, same diameter of 37 mm.
- Some silver versions were issued in Proof quality, intended for collectors.
Historical and Symbolic Significance
The 1989 issue — 850 years after the Battle of Ourique — symbolizes the celebration of Portugal’s foundation as an independent political entity. The battle holds a legendary place in national history, traditionally associated with King Afonso Henriques’ victory over the Moors.
The coin’s design reflects heraldic and martial symbols: the Portuguese shield, the quinas (five shields), castles, sword, and crescent — all evoke the medieval context and the Reconquista that shaped Portugal.
Numismatic Value
The collector’s value of the 1989 250 Escudos coin varies depending on variant (cupro-nickel or silver) and especially condition.
Cupro‑nickel variant (circulation)
- Approximate mintage: 750,000 coins.
- Market value: generally €2.50–€4.00 for coins in good condition.
- Uncirculated coins or those in excellent condition can fetch slightly higher prices.
Silver variant (commemorative/collector)
- Limited edition — mintage far lower than the cupro-nickel version.
- Silver coins in good condition (MS / Proof) are significantly more valuable, reflecting both the silver content and collector demand.
- Well-preserved or special edition coins (Proof, collector finish) can reach much higher values.
Notes
- Many escudo coins were minted in large quantities, so the common version is not rare — value is mostly based on condition.
- Silver or special collector editions have additional appeal due to their commemorative nature and precious metal content.
Conclusion
The 1989 250 Escudos — Battle of Ourique / Founding of Portugal coin is a symbolic milestone: more than just currency, it commemorates the legendary origins of the Portuguese nation. Technically, it is a well-crafted coin (cupro-nickel or silver), with appropriate weight and dimensions, minted by INCM with fine heraldic and thematic details.
In terms of numismatic value, the cupro-nickel version is modest but collectible — ideal for beginners in Portuguese coin collecting. The silver version, especially in collector condition, deserves attention and may be valuable depending on condition, demand, and the numismatic market.
