Ceitil of Pedro I

The Ceitil of Pedro I marked Portugal's shift to copper coinage in 1357, a practical move to handle small transactions without depleting silver reserves.

Weighing about 1.5 grams and measuring roughly 15 millimeters across, these coins were struck with simple dies showing a cross on one side and the royal shield on the other. Minting likely occurred in Lisbon, though exact locations remain unclear due to lost medieval records.

Variations exist; some specimens show irregular shapes from hurried production. That said, no two are identical, which keeps things interesting for those who sort through hoards.

Experts debate the exact mintage figures, as fires in the 19th century destroyed many archives. What we know is that the Ceitil circulated until Pedro's death in 1367, then faded quickly.

Wear on these coins tells stories of constant use, from markets to taverns.