Cruzado de D. João V

What surprises most people about the Cruzado de D. João V is that it was struck from gold mined in Brazil's Minas Gerais region, shipped across the Atlantic to fuel Portugal's mints during the early 18th century.

This gold coin, issued between 1706 and 1750, featured King João V's portrait on one side and a prominent cross on the other—a design choice that reflected both piety and power. We know the coins varied in weight, typically around 3.5 grams for the smaller denominations, but exact fineness could differ based on the ore's quality. Records from that era are spotty; the Lisbon mint burned in 1755, so we can't pin down precise production figures.

Portuguese authorities recycled metal from older coins to make these, a practical move in an age of scarce resources. If you handle one, note the edge lettering, which aimed to thwart clippers. Some say they were used in trade with Africa or Asia, though that's more legend than fact. As for myths, I've heard tales of buried hoards, but after thirty years, I'll just say: dig if you like, but expect dirt.