Introduction
The commemorative 200 escudos coin dedicated to the World Exposition of Lisbon — Expo ’98, minted in 1997, is a popular piece among Portuguese collectors because it is bimetallic, commemorative, and widely distributed. Below are the technical specifications, artistic description, mintage details, and a realistic assessment of its current numismatic value.
Technical Specifications
- Country: Portugal
- Year of issue: 1997
- Denomination: 200 Escudos
- Composition: Bimetallic — center in copper-nickel and ring in nickel-brass
- Weight: 9.8 g
- Diameter: 28 mm
- Thickness: approx. 2.2 mm
- Edge: intermittent reeding
- Mint: Imprensa Nacional — Casa da Moeda (INCM), Lisbon
- Catalog references: Numista #10381, Krause KM#694
Design and Iconography
- Obverse: Usually features the country name (“PORTUGAL”), the face value, and stylized motifs related to Expo ’98 — often dolphins and maritime elements alluding to the event’s theme, “The Oceans.”
- Reverse: Commemorative imagery referring to Expo ’98 (dolphins / ocean symbolism). The bimetallic composition provides a strong visual contrast between the center and the outer ring.
Note: Minor layout variations may appear in online photographs, but the central theme (Expo ’98 and ocean motifs) is consistent.
Mintage and Rarity
- Reported mintage: around 1,000,000 pieces.
This places it in the category of very common among modern Portuguese commemoratives — it was widely distributed.
Because of this high mintage and the fact that many pieces survived in good condition, the coin is not considered rare. Higher value is usually limited to exceptionally preserved pieces or special editions.
Condition Grades (Important for Price)
- Circulated / visible wear: scratches, loss of luster — low market price.
- Uncirculated (BU/UNC): original shine, minimal marks — moderate price.
- Proof / special finish: if part of a special collector set, value can be higher; the standard 1997 bimetallic issue is the most common.
Numismatic Value — Practical Estimate (Portugal market, 2024–2025)
Based on listings from shops and online marketplaces:
- Circulated: €1 — €4
- Very good / UNC: €3 — €10
- High-grade / certified examples: €15 — €35+ (uncommon; depends on third-party grading and exceptional state)
In short: this coin is valued more for its thematic and historical interest than for rarity or investment potential. For collectors of modern Portuguese coins, it is an essential and inexpensive piece.
Tips for Buyers, Sellers, and Collectors
- Check the condition: clear photos of obverse, reverse, and edge help assess wear.
- Look for sets/lots: often sold in groups with other bimetallic escudo coins.
- Certification: consider grading only if the coin appears to be in exceptional condition.
- Catalog references: use Numista or Krause KM#694 for confirmation.
Conclusion
The 200 Escudos Expo ’98 (1997) coin is iconic due to its connection with the Lisbon World Exposition and its attractive bimetallic design. Technically well-documented (9.8 g, 28 mm, bimetallic), it was minted in large numbers, which keeps market prices low for common examples. Even so, pristine specimens or special presentations can command higher prices.
