Introduction

In 1977, the Imprensa Nacional — Casa da Moeda (INCM) issued a series of coins to commemorate the 100th anniversary of the death of the writer and historian Alexandre Herculano (1810–1877). The 25 escudos coin is part of this commemorative series and is now a collectible among 20th-century Portuguese coin collectors.

Historical Context: Why Herculano on a Coin?

Alexandre Herculano was a central figure of Portuguese Romanticism — a writer, historian, and journalist — who died in 1877. In 1977, to mark the 100th anniversary of his death, the Portuguese State issued several commemorative coins (2.50; 5; and 25 escudos) to honor his work and cultural contribution. This explains the coin’s iconography (portraits and inscriptions referring to the centenary).

Design and Iconography

• Obverse (front): National coat of arms with the inscription REPÚBLICA PORTUGUESA and the denomination 25. ESCUDOS (layout may vary slightly).
• Reverse (back): Laurelled portrait (profile) of Herculano with the inscription CENTENÁRIO·DA·MORTE·DE·ALEXANDRE·HERCULANO and the dates 1877 1977, along with the engraver’s signature.

Technical Specifications

• Year: 1977
• Material / Alloy: Cupro-nickel (copper-nickel)
• Weight: ≈ 9.5 g
• Diameter: ≈ 26–26.5 mm
• Thickness: ≈ 2.4 mm
• Edge: Reeded
• Engraver: Marcelino Norte de Almeida (signature on coin)
• Catalog (KM): Often cataloged as KM#608

Mintage / Quantity

Sources indicate that this coin had a high mintage — several million pieces — often cited as 7,656,811 coins minted. This explains why it is relatively common in the numismatic market.

Variants and Minting Notes

• Most coins are found in the circulating version (cupro-nickel).
• Coins in pristine condition (uncirculated / proof-like) or with mint errors may fetch higher prices.
• Variations such as alignment, small marks near the engraver’s signature, or slight relief wear on the portrait can influence value.

Current Numismatic Value (Price Range)

Quick summary: Common circulated coins have low value; uncirculated coins or proof-like coins can command moderate premiums.

• Circulated coins: Typically sold for ≈ €0.50 – €3.
• Almost uncirculated / BU coins: Usually €3 – €15, depending on the market. Exceptional coins can reach higher prices in auctions.
• Exceptional / proof coins: Rarely, coins in perfect condition or with provenance can fetch €25–€30 or more, depending on market demand.

Note: Exact prices depend on condition (grade), provenance, whether part of an official commemorative set, and market fluctuations.

How to Evaluate and Identify a Good Coin

1. Condition (grading): Coins without scratches or wear on high-relief areas are more valuable. Look for terms like UNC (uncirculated), FDC (fleur de coin), or MS (mint state).
2. Avoid cleaned coins: Artificial shine or aggressive cleaning decreases value.
3. Compare with reference images: Specialized websites (Numista, UCoin) and KM catalogs help verify design, engraver signature, and inscriptions.
4. Proper storage: Use rigid capsules or albums without PVC in a dry environment to preserve natural patina.
5. Official proof sets: Coins in original commemorative packaging usually have higher value.

Where to Buy / Sell and References

• Catalogs / Databases: Numista, UCoin — technical data and historical sales.
• Portuguese coin shops / classifieds: PortugalMoedas, coleccionismoepaixoes, NND, OLX, eBay — good for market prices and availability.
• Auctions / specialized markets: Exceptional-condition coins can reach premium prices.

Conclusion

The 25 escudos coin (1977) commemorating the centenary of Alexandre Herculano’s death is a representative piece of the post-1974 period and commemorative coin practices. Due to high mintage, it is relatively easy to find, and its value depends heavily on condition. For most collectors, it is an accessible coin that adds thematic interest (literature / historical figures) or completes 20th-century escudo collections.