50 Reis of Carlos I

The 50 Reis coin of Carlos I was struck from a bronze alloy that included recycled copper, a practical choice during Portugal's economic strains in the late 19th century.

This made it durable for the pocket change of farmers and laborers, though the exact composition varied slightly by year. The obverse bore Carlos I's profile, a standard design that reflected the king's effort to modernize the currency. Mintage figures for specific years remain unclear, lost in archival shifts over time.

Weighing about 4 grams and measuring 22 millimeters across, it featured a simple wreath on the reverse. If you're handling one, note the edge is plain—no reeding to catch dirt.

Some call it underwhelming next to gold issues, but that's the point.