My Insights on the Brazilian Gold 20,000 Reis of Joao V, Minas Gerais 1727

I’ve always been drawn to coins that tell a story beyond their metal. The Brazilian gold 20,000 reis from Minas Gerais, struck in 1727 under King Joao V, is a true standout in my collection. It’s not just a coin—it’s a hefty relic from a time when gold flowed like rivers, shaping empires and fueling passions.

Historical Context and Significance

When I researched this piece, I learned it came straight from Brazil’s gold rush heyday in Minas Gerais during the early 1700s. Gold was first discovered near Ouro Preto in the 1690s, and over the next century, an astonishing 800 metric tons sailed to Portugal. That wealth helped build Europe, but there’s a dark side: African slaves suffered brutal conditions to extract it. Every time I hold this coin, I remember the human cost behind its gleam.

Coin Specifications and Design

You feel its history when you hold this chunk of gold – 53.50 grams of 0.9170 fine metal. Among Minas Gerais denominations, only the 2,000, 4,000 and 10,000 reis compare in size. The obverse shows “IOANNES • V • D • G • PORT • ET • ALG • REX” circling a crowned shield, with “20000” flanked by florets. Flip it over and you’ll find “IN HOC SIGNO VINCES” surrounding a Portuguese cross with M’s in the quadrants, dated 1727. Cataloged as KM 117 and FR 3, the design practically shouts royal authority.

My Acquisition and Condition Assessment

This beauty came to me through a World-Wide Coins auction back in November 1992. They graded it a choice XF, but honestly? That feels conservative now. I’ve kept it in a poly-liner inside a paper 2×2 envelope all these years, so it’s stayed pristine with minimal toning. The high gold content keeps its color vibrant, but I handle it carefully – gold this pure scratches if you breathe on it wrong.

Grading Tips and Preservation Advice

Here’s something I’ve noticed: raw coins called EF often grade MS-63 or MS-64 when NGC slabs them. From my experience:

• Focus on eye appeal and minimal bag marks – coins like mine in top shape pull strong premiums
• Slabbing protects against mishandling but loses that raw coin feel. I wrestle with this – gold’s softness makes protection tempting
• Use inert materials like poly liners for storage, especially in humid areas

Collecting Insights and Market Observations

I collect purely for the love of it, chasing quality over completing sets. The market for these remains strong – I’ve seen similar 20,000 reis pieces top $7,000. If you’ve got a sharp eye, you might find undervalued opportunities. For tighter budgets, consider the 6,400 reis “half joe” or colonial silver like the 600 reis (I’ve added a few myself). Prices swing with rarity and gold markets – I watch for dips.

Broader Numismatic Connections

We call these “dobras” or “joes” after King Joao, and they traveled everywhere – pirate tales, early American records, you name it. They’re cousins to other big gold coins like the U.S. double eagle, both born from gold rushes. Visiting Ouro Preto changed how I see mine – walking those streets adds layers to the collecting experience.

At the end of the day, this 20,000 reis piece isn’t just a collection centerpiece. It’s a living piece of history that reminds us why we collect – whether you’re new to the hobby or a seasoned hand, it’s about the stories in our hands.