Introduction
The 500 escudos coin minted in 1998 is associated with the opening of the Vasco da Gama Bridge and the context of Expo ’98 (the World Exposition held in Lisbon). It is one of the most common Portuguese commemorative coins from the final years of the escudo, available in circulation finish as well as proof and special variants.
Historical Context
The Vasco da Gama Bridge was inaugurated on March 29, 1998, becoming one of the symbols of the modernization projects linked to Expo ’98. The 500-escudo coin celebrates this landmark and belongs to the commemorative issues produced by the Portuguese Mint (INCM) during that period.
Coin Description (Design)
- Obverse: face value (500 escudos), national coat of arms and usual inscriptions of the Portuguese Republic; the engraver’s name appears in some references.
- Reverse: stylized representation of the Vasco da Gama Bridge (with elements reminiscent of sails or ships), the legend PONTE VASCO DA GAMA and the date 1998. The engraver is listed as Vítor Santos in some sources.
- Edge: reeded.
Technical Specifications
- Denomination: 500 Escudos — Portugal, 1998
- Metal: silver (500‰ — 50% Ag) in the regular version
- Weight: 14.00 g
- Diameter: 30 mm
- Thickness: approx. 2.5 mm
- Finishes/Varieties: circulation version, proof version (case and certificate from INCM), and a special bimetallic-type variant with a silver core and golden-colored ring (listed as KM#705b in some catalogues).
Mintage
Commercial references and catalogs indicate that the circulation version had a high mintage — around 620,000 pieces for 1998, while proof and special variants were produced in much smaller quantities. Collectors often rely on commercial catalogs because official public breakdowns by finish are limited.
Numismatic Value — Practical Overview
1) Intrinsic / metal value (melt)
Because it contains only 50% silver and weighs 14 g, the amount of pure silver is modest (about 0.225 troy ounces). Thus, the metal value alone is low; recent evaluations have listed melt values around USD 10–12, depending on silver prices.
2) Market value (collector)
- Circulated/common condition: typically €6–€15 on retail markets.
- Uncirculated / high-grade: can fetch higher prices depending on quality.
- Proof version (with INCM case + certificate): commonly €20–€40 or more.
- Bimetallic / special variant: scarcer and may command a premium among specialized collectors.
(Actual selling prices vary by platform; checking recent sales is recommended.)
Factors Affecting Price
- Condition / grading: better preservation significantly increases value.
- Finish: proof coins with case and certificate are worth more.
- Variety rarity: special/bimetallic variants are less common.
- Market demand: Portuguese collectors and Expo ’98 series enthusiasts influence pricing.
- Original packaging: case and certificate (when applicable) raise the value.
Where to Buy / Sell
- Specialized dealers and online numismatic shops (Portuguese dealers often stock this coin).
- Auction platforms (eBay, Catawiki) to check real selling prices.
- Coin fairs and numismatic clubs for in-person assessment and expert advice.
Conclusion
The 1998 500-escudo Vasco da Gama Bridge / Expo ’98 coin is a representative piece from the final years of the Portuguese escudo. It is easy to acquire in standard condition and offers interesting collectible value in its proof and special variants. When buying or selling, compare recent listings, verify condition, and check for original packaging when available. For selling high-grade examples, a professional grading service can help maximize value.
