The Portuguese Mint will launch the first collection coin of the new series Lighthouses of Portugal on Wednesday, “dedicated to symbols of guidance and safety that connect the country to the sea,” announced the National Print Office Casa da Moeda (INCM) on Tuesday.
The coin’s debut will feature the São Vicente Cape Lighthouse, erected in 1846 under the orders of D. Maria II, at the southwesternmost point of the continent. Equipped with one of the world’s major lanterns, it continues to guide sailors through the darkness.
“The coin, designed by José João de Brito, reflects this illuminating role with a design that combines art and precision,” it further states.
The launch event will be held tomorrow at 6:00 PM at the Lighthouse Directorate (Av. Marginal, 2770-210 Paço de Arcos).
Coin Holds Equal Value as a Banknote
This collection coin will be released in two versions: one with a regular finish and another with a special finish. Both will have a face value of five euros.
There is also a silver proof version (Ag 925‰) which “features a translucent rim with light, making it a unique and innovative piece.” However, “due to the complexity of the production process, its sale has been postponed, with the new date to be announced soon through the usual channels.”
Who is the Coin’s Creator?
José João de Brito is the creator of this collection coin. “Born in Coimbra in 1941, he is a sculptor and medallist, graduated from the Oporto Higher School of Fine Arts and a grantee of the Calouste Gulbenkian Foundation. Awarded the Teixeira Lopes Prize, he is a member of the SNBA Board and a corresponding member of the National Academy of Fine Arts,” the released note reads.
Furthermore, “he has exhibited in Portugal, Macau, Brussels, Heidelberg, and Mexico, and is represented in collections such as the Amadeo de Souza-Cardoso Museum, Casa Fernando Pessoa, Casa da Moeda Museum, and British Museum.”
Where to Buy?
According to the same disclosed note, the “regular finish coin will not be available for sale in INCM physical stores“, but “can be purchased on the INCM Online Store, at Bank of Portugal’s treasury counters, and usual resale points.”
“The special finish coins (gold proof) will be available in INCM physical stores in Lisbon, Porto, and Coimbra, as well as on the INCM Online Store,” it is explained.
