The 100 Escudos 1987, issued by Portugal, commemorates the exploration of the African coast in 1486 by the renowned Portuguese navigator Diogo Cão. This coin celebrates Portugal’s maritime legacy during the Age of Discoveries, a period that significantly expanded European knowledge of the world.
The obverse features the Portuguese coat of arms, a symbol of national identity, set within a circular pattern. The inscription "REPÚBLICA PORTUGUESA" (Portuguese Republic) is displayed along the upper rim, while the denomination "100 ESCUDOS" and the year "1987" are positioned below.
The reverse showcases a detailed depiction of Diogo Cão's ship, sailing along the African coast, alongside a padrão (stone pillar), which Portuguese explorers used to mark their territorial claims. The inscription "DIOGO CÃO E A EXPLORAÇÃO DAS COSTAS AFRICANAS 1486" (Diogo Cão and the Exploration of the African Coasts 1486) honors his contribution to Portuguese maritime history.
Struck in cupronickel, this coin is a must-have for collectors of Portuguese exploration-themed numismatics, celebrating one of Portugal’s most significant navigators from the Age of Discoveries.
