Introduction
The commemorative 200 escudos (1995) coin featuring the inscription "ILHAS DE SOLOR E TIMOR · 1515" is part of the 6th series of the Portuguese Discoveries. It was issued by the Bank of Portugal / INCM to mark the Portuguese presence in Asia during the 16th century.
Technical Specifications (Cupronickel version)
- Year: 1995
- Face value: 200 Escudos
- Composition: Cupronickel
- Weight: approx. 21–21.3 g
- Diameter: 36.0 mm
- Thickness: approx. 2.8 mm (catalog reference)
- Edge: reeded
- Designer: Eloísa Byrne (signed E. BYRNE on the coin)
- Catalogue: KM#683 (Krause / Standard Catalog)
Design and Symbolism
- Obverse: Features the Portuguese coat of arms, a sandalwood tree (symbolizing the region’s aromatic wealth), and a 16th-century Portuguese ship, along with the face value and date.
- Reverse: Depicts the cross of the Order of Christ over a map of Timor, surrounded by local motifs (snake, buffalo, horse, crocodile, diadem, and a human figure in traditional attire). This represents the fauna, culture, and the arrival of the Portuguese in 1515.
Mintage and Variants
- Mintage (cupronickel): approximately 750,000 pieces.
- Gold/Silver versions: In addition to the cupronickel issue, there were special gold Proof editions and collector sets. The gold Proof piece weighs 27.2 g, fineness .916, produced in limited numbers (e.g., around 2,000 sets). These variants are rarer and more sought-after.
Numismatic Value (Current Market — Approximate)
Prices vary depending on metal, condition, rarity, packaging, and collector demand.
- Cupronickel (common issue): usually trades between €1.50 – €10, depending on condition. Circulated pieces are very common; higher-grade UNC examples fall in the upper part of this range.
- Gold Proof version: typically valued between €1,600 – €1,750, depending on gold price, condition, and completeness of the set.
Note: These are approximate values and may vary. For an exact appraisal, consult a numismatic expert or auction house.
How to Evaluate and Preserve Your Coin
- Identify the variant: determine if your coin is cupronickel, gold, Proof, and if it includes original packaging or certificate.
- Condition grading: use standard grades such as Circulated, Very Fine, Extremely Fine, Uncirculated (UNC), Proof. Cleaning marks or scratches reduce value significantly.
- Storage: handle with soft gloves, store in rigid capsules or archival envelopes, and avoid humidity and temperature swings. Do not clean with chemicals.
- Compare market prices: consult catalogues (Numista, Krause), online listings, and auction results.
Conclusion
The 1995 200 Escudos – Islands of Solor and Timor coin is a noteworthy example of Portugal’s 1990s commemorative issues: widely available and affordable in its cupronickel version, yet also present in rare and valuable Proof gold editions. Its appeal lies in both its historical theme (the Discoveries) and the collector interest in its variants and conservation state.
