The 200 Escudos 1992 — Portuguese Presidency of the European Community coin was minted by the Imprensa Nacional Casa da Moeda (INCM) as a commemorative issue, marking Portugal’s presidency of the European Community in 1992.
Known Versions
There are at least two versions of this issue:
- Cupronickel version (copper-nickel alloy), minted for general circulation.
- Silver version (.925, proof finish), intended for collectors.
Technical Specifications
Cupronickel version (circulation):
| Feature | Value |
|---|---|
| Face Value | 200 Escudos (200 PTE) |
| Year | 1992 (Portuguese Presidency of the European Community) |
| Composition | Cupronickel (Cu + Ni) |
| Weight | ~21.1 grams |
| Diameter | 36 mm |
| Thickness | ~2.8 mm |
| Edge | Reeded |
| Orientation | Coin alignment (↑↓) |
| Engravers | Isabel Carriço and Fernando Branco |
Silver version (proof, non-circulating):
- Composition: 925‰ silver (Ag 925)
- Weight: ~26.5 g
- Diameter: 36 mm
- Mintage: 20,000 pieces (with case and certificate)
Design / Theme
- Obverse: Features a stylized “maritime wave” background, symbolizing Portugal’s maritime heritage; on the left, the national coat of arms; on the right, the value “200 Escudos (200$00)”; around the edge, “REPÚBLICA PORTUGUESA”. Signatures of the engravers and INCM mark are included.
- Reverse: Displays the 12 stars of the European Community (symbol of European unity) and the legend “PRESIDÊNCIA DA COMUNIDADE EUROPEIA – 1992”.
This design celebrates European integration and Portugal’s leadership in the European Community that year.
Current Status: Demonetization
With the adoption of the euro in Portugal, the escudo — and all escudo coins — were officially demonetized. Therefore, the 200 Escudos 1992 coin no longer has legal tender value.
It now exists solely as a collector’s item — for numismatists, history enthusiasts, or collectors of commemorative coins.
Numismatic Value and Collector Market
The current market value varies depending on the version (cupronickel or silver), condition, and whether it is a regular or “proof/collector” edition:
- Cupronickel version (circulating) in good condition: approx. €2.50 to €3.00
- Silver proof version, in case with certificate: approx. €30 to €35
- Catalog references: KM #663a (silver proof), KM #663 (cupronickel)
Factors Affecting Value
- Condition: Uncirculated, shiny, and scratch-free coins fetch higher prices.
- Version: The limited silver proof version (20,000 pieces) is more valuable than the regular cupronickel version.
- Completeness: Coins with original case and certificate are more desirable.
- Collector demand: Commemorative coins of historical events like the European Community presidency attract extra interest.
Conclusion
The 200 Escudos 1992 — Portuguese Presidency of the European Community coin is more than a piece of metal: it is a symbol of Portugal’s European integration phase and a numismatic and historical milestone. Although demonetized, it remains valuable to collectors, particularly in the rare silver proof version.
