1868 Brazil 100 Réis

The 1868 100 Réis coin was struck in bronze at a time when Brazil's economy was shifting away from silver for lower denominations, making it a practical choice for the empire's daily commerce.

This piece features Emperor Pedro II's portrait on the obverse, a design that remained standard through the series until the republic. The reverse shows the imperial crown above the denomination, all encircled by a wreath. Some specimens show signs of die wear, likely from high production demands.

Minting occurred in Rio de Janeiro, though exact numbers for 1868 are murky—records from that era were spotty at best. It's a sturdy coin, often found in circulated condition, which means it's more common than its age suggests.

As for myths, I've heard tales of these turning up in old coffee sacks, but that's just romantic nonsense. They were everyday money, nothing more.