Validated for Circulation
14 June 1688

CNG 106, Lot: 954. Estimate $500. Sold for $425. This amount does not include the buyer’s fee.

BRAZIL, Colonial. temp. Pedro II. As king of Portugal, 1683-1706. AR 250 Réis (32mm, 11.07 g, 12h). Overstrike revalidation in the name of João IV. Authorized 14 June 1688. Circular countermark bearing legends of João IV over a Portuguese 200 Réis of the Lisboa (Lisbon) mint, earlier (1663) countermarked with a crowned 250. For 1688 countermark: Gomes 35.02; Vaz P2.150; KM –. For 1663 countermark: Gomes 31.02; Vaz A6.55; KM 33.2. For host: cf. Gomes 28.08a; cf. Vaz J4.20B; cf. KM 49. Countermarks Good VF and VF, Host Coin Good VF.

In June of 1688, Portuguese authorities ordered the revaluation of all silver coins validated for circulation under a March 1663 edict. Underweight and clipped pieces were withdrawn and melted, while specimens that were of sufficient weight were restruck by a circular countermark and edge pattern, to discourage further alterations. Curiously, the legends that appeared on the initial issues were reused, resulting in coins in the names of João IV and Alfonso VI being effectively restruck after their deaths.