Introduction
In 1997, Portugal issued a commemorative 200-escudo coin dedicated to the “History of Japan”, focused on the Jesuit Luís Fróis (1532–1597), one of the most important European chroniclers of 16th-century Japan. The coin is part of the 8th Discoveries Series — a theme dedicated to Christian missions and the Portuguese presence in the East.
Historical background
Luís Fróis was a Portuguese missionary and chronicler who lived and worked in Japan during the second half of the 16th century. His writings are key sources on the Nanban period (the era of contact with Europeans between 1543 and the early 17th century), describing customs, encounters with Japanese leaders (such as Oda Nobunaga and Toyotomi Hideyoshi), and the Portuguese missionary presence. The initial arrival of the Portuguese in Japan (Tanegashima, 1543) opened trade and cultural routes that later inspired commemorative pieces such as this coin.
Coin description (technical details)
- Issuer / Year: Portuguese Republic, 1997
- Face value: 200 escudos
- Composition (common version): cupronickel
- Weight: 21.2 g (cupronickel)
- Diameter: 36 mm
- Minting / finish: reeded edge; medal alignment
- Catalogue reference: KM#698
Variants: A collector’s version in palladium (999‰), with a different weight (31.12 g), was also issued in limited quantity.
Iconography and design
- Obverse (commemorative side): features two figures — Luís Fróis in dialogue with a Japanese figure — with the inscription “HISTORIA DE JAPAM” (archaic Portuguese spelling) and Jesuit symbols (IHS). The composition highlights the missionary and historical theme.
- Reverse (value side): Portuguese coat of arms, the value “200 ESC”, the inscription REPÚBLICA PORTUGUESA, and the year.
Mintage and circulation
Commercial references and catalogue listings indicate a relatively high mintage for the cupronickel version — around 650,000 pieces — which makes this coin fairly common among Portuguese commemoratives of the 1990s. The palladium/proof variants were struck in much smaller quantities.
Numismatic value (practical estimate)
Note: Market prices depend on condition (circulated, Extremely Fine, Uncirculated, Proof), rarity of the variant, and market demand. The values below are typical ranges based on catalogues and online listings.
- Cupronickel version (circulated / common): usually worth a few euros, often between €1.50 and €8–10. UNC examples can be slightly higher but remain modest due to the large mintage.
- Proof / official presentation versions: generally several tens of euros, depending on condition and packaging.
- Palladium or precious-metal versions: belong to a separate category. Due to metal value and lower mintage, they can reach tens to several hundreds of euros, depending on market conditions and quality.
Practical summary: common cupronickel pieces are affordable and ideal for beginners; palladium/proof versions are more valuable and aimed at advanced collectors.
Tips for collectors
- Condition matters: for modern coins, the price difference between circulated and UNC/proof is significant. Use capsules to preserve brightness and avoid scratches.
- Check the variant: confirm whether the coin is cupronickel (common) or a precious-metal version (palladium). Weight and colour are key indicators.
- Request certification for high-value pieces: when paying a premium for proof or palladium coins, ask for certificates and clear images, preferably from reputable dealers.
- Monitor the market: online shops, auctions, and numismatic forums provide the most accurate current price range.
Conclusion
The 200 Escudos (1997) — History of Japan / Luís Fróis coin is representative of Portuguese commemorative issues of the 1990s. It offers meaningful historical and cultural symbolism, standard technical specifications for a circulation-type commemorative coin (cupronickel, 36 mm, ~21.2 g), and a numismatic value that depends greatly on variant and preservation. Common pieces are easily accessible, while precious-metal and proof variants appeal to more advanced collectors.
