The 50 centavos coin featuring President Eurico Gaspar Dutra is one of Brazil’s most recognizable issues from the Cruzeiro era (1942–1967). Minted between 1948 and 1956, it became a common piece among Brazilian collectors due to its wide circulation, simple design, and large mintage — though its value varies considerably depending on the year and preservation state.

Historical Context

Eurico Gaspar Dutra served as President of Brazil from 1946 to 1951. Coins bearing his effigy — often called the “Dutra type” — were issued during the post–World War II economic transition and correspond to the first Cruzeiro currency system. Today, they represent not only a monetary artifact but also a historical token of Brazil’s mid-20th century period.

Technical Characteristics

• Obverse: Profile bust of President Eurico G. Dutra facing left, with inscriptions “PRESIDENTE DUTRA” and “BRASIL.”
• Reverse: Denomination “50 CENTAVOS” with a star above and the year below.
• Metal / Composition: Bronze-aluminum (approx. 90% copper, 8% aluminum, 2% zinc).
• Weight: ~5 grams.
• Diameter: ~21.3–21.4 mm.
• Thickness: ~2.18–2.2 mm.
• Edge: Plain (smooth).
• Alignment: Coin alignment (180°).
• Catalog Reference (Krause / KM): KM#563.

These specifications help identify genuine pieces and differentiate them from counterfeits or minor variants.

Mintage and Rarity

The 1948 issue had a very high mintage—tens of millions of coins—making it a common date in circulated condition. Later years of the same design saw similar quantities, so only uncirculated or error coins carry significant collector premiums.

Varieties and Collector Notes

There are no major varieties or proof issues known for the 1948 50 centavos. Minor differences (such as die variations or minting errors) exist but are rare and usually of interest only to specialized collectors. When in doubt, it’s best to consult a numismatic expert or reference catalog.

Numismatic Value (Approximate Ranges)

Values depend heavily on the coin’s state of preservation and where it is sold. Based on data from numismatic catalogs and market listings:

• Heavily circulated (Good / Very Fine): usually under US$1–US$2 (a few dozen Brazilian reais).
• Moderate wear (Extremely Fine / About Uncirculated): around US$0.25–US$1, or roughly R$10–R$30.
• Uncirculated (Mint State / MS): typically US$0.45–US$5, depending on luster and eye appeal.
• Exceptional or error coins: occasionally listed for higher prices by sellers, but those should be verified carefully — most are not true rarities.

Note: Only coins in top mint condition (MS63 or higher) or with verified errors are considered valuable beyond basic collector interest.

Tips for Evaluating Your Coin

1. Condition: Scratches, dull surfaces, or cleaning marks can greatly reduce value.
2. Provenance: Coins with certification or collector documentation are more desirable.
3. Compare sales: Check completed sales on sites like eBay, vCoins, or MercadoLivre instead of just asking prices.
4. Expert verification: If your coin seems unusual (e.g., a mint error), have it examined by a professional numismatist.

Conclusion

The 50 centavos 1948 “Dutra” (KM#563) is a common coin with strong historical appeal. Its numismatic value depends almost entirely on preservation. While circulated examples are worth little, pristine uncirculated pieces can attract modest collector interest. For anyone building a collection of Brazilian presidential or Cruzeiro-era coins, this is an essential and affordable entry piece.