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SHIPPING AVAILABLE > A mylar sleeve filled with -20- Belgian coins, as shown ~ All circulated, of varying dates and composition ~ One noted as 1868 silver 500 Reis ~ The 1868 Brazil 500 Réis silver coin, a sought-after numismatic treasure from Emperor Dom Pedro II's reign, is composed of .835 fine silver, weighs 6.25 grams, and measures 25 mm in diameter. The obverse features a bearded bust of Dom Pedro II facing left, encircled by the inscription "PETRUS II D.G.C.IMP. ET PERP.BRAS.DEF. C.L. 1868," which translates to "Peter II, by the grace of God, Constitutional Emperor and Perpetual Defender of Brazil." The reverse displays the Imperial coat of arms of Brazil, with the denomination "500 RÉIS" prominently positioned below.
Others date from the 1920s through the 1960s, or varying denomination, all circulated.
Brazilian coinage has a rich history that dates back to the colonial era. During the early days, Portuguese and Dutch settlers introduced the real, a currency that circulated in Portugal for centuries. In the 17th century, both silver and gold coins were minted, featuring denominations like 75, 150, 300, and 600 réis for silver, and 1000, 2000, 4000, and 6400 réis for gold. Interestingly, the first paper money in Brazil was used to compensate diamond prospectors, with their value marked directly on the note.
Throughout the 18th and 19th centuries, the Brazilian monetary system evolved, with various banks and even regional governments issuing their own banknotes. The establishment of the first Brazilian Mint in 1694 marked a significant step towards a more organized system. Copper coins were also introduced, with denominations ranging from 5 to 40 réis.
The 20th century brought further changes, with the introduction of the cruzeiro in 1942. However, due to economic instability and hyperinflation, the currency was renamed and redefined several times, leading to the introduction of the cruzeiro novo, cruzado, cruzado novo, and cruzeiro real. Finally, in 1994, the current currency, the real, was introduced, aiming to stabilize the economy and control inflation.
Today, the Brazilian real is a widely recognized and stable currency, with coins and banknotes featuring various denominations. The Banco Central do Brasil, established in 1965, is responsible for issuing the currency and managing monetary policy. Brazilian coinage continues to evolve, reflecting the country's economic development and historical journey.
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