The 200 Escudos coined in 1994 to commemorate the 500th Anniversary of the Partilha do Mundo "Division of the World" is a numismatic marvel that pays homage to Portugal's pivotal role in the Age of Discovery.

Crafted from Silver the coin offers durability and resistance to corrosion, ensuring its longevity as a treasured collectible.

With a diameter of 36 millimeters, the coin boasts a modest yet substantial size, providing ample space for intricate design elements while adhering to standard specifications for commemorative coins of its denomination.

Weighing approximately 26.5 grams, the 200 Escudos coin strikes a balance between heft and practicality, offering a tangible representation of Portugal's enduring legacy.

Minted in limited quantity to mark the 500th Anniversary of the Partilha do Mundo, the coin is highly sought after by collectors. Each coin is uniquely numbered, adding to its rarity and collectability.

The 200 Escudos coin is typically found in uncirculated or proof condition, boasting flawless surfaces and sharp details that accentuate its historical significance.

On the obverse side, the coin features the Portuguese coat of arms alongside a map of Europe and Africa, adorned with a compass and navigation lines, symbolising the era of exploration. The edge is bordered by a line representing a cartographic scale.

The reverse side depicts a map of South America with the line of the Treaty of Tordesillas framed by the coats of arms of Spain and Portugal. A Portuguese ship from the 16th century, a square rigged carrack, is shown sailing to the east. Below the image is the inscription "Division of the World" along with the year of the Treaty. Similar to the obverse, the edge is bordered by a line representing a cartographic scale.

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HISTORY

The 500th anniversary of the historic Partilha do Mundo, or Division of the World, marks a significant milestone in global history, particularly in the context of European exploration and colonisation. This event, which occurred in 1494, was the result of the Treaty of Tordesillas, signed between Spain and Portugal, and had far-reaching implications for the course of world history.

The Treaty of Tordesillas was brokered by Pope Alexander VI to resolve disputes between Spain and Portugal over newly discovered lands. The treaty established a dividing line, known as the Line of Demarcation, which extended from pole to pole, 370 leagues west of the Cape Verde Islands. This line divided the newly discovered territories outside Europe into two zones: one for Spain and one for Portugal.

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The 200 Escudos coin, minted by Portugal in 1994, commemorates this historic event. On its reverse side, the coin features a map of South America, with the Line of Demarcation from the Treaty of Tordesillas prominently displayed. The coats of arms of Spain and Portugal flank the line, symbolising the division of the world between the two powers. Additionally, a Portuguese ship from the 16th century, a square-rigged carrack, sails towards the eastern zone allocated to Portugal.

The Division of the World had profound consequences for the peoples and cultures of the newly discovered lands. It established the framework for European colonisation and exploitation of the Americas, Africa, and Asia, shaping the course of global history for centuries to come. The 500th anniversary of this event serves as a reminder of the complexities and legacies of colonialism, as well as the enduring impact of exploration and discovery on the modern world.

In this post all photos and text are authored by @portugalcoin!

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