Brazil 20 Centavos (Third Cruzeiro Series)
Country of Origin: Brazil
Year of Issue: 1942-1948
Denomination: 20 Centavos
Composition: Aluminum-Bronze (90% Copper, 10% Aluminum or 80-15-5 Cu-Al-Zn mix)
Brief Description
A small, yellowish-gold colored coin featuring a map of Brazil on the obverse and the denomination over a stylized background on the reverse.
Historical Significance
This coin belongs to the First Cruzeiro currency system introduced by Getúlio Vargas in 1942, reflecting a period of Brazilian nationalism and modernization during WWII.
Estimated Value
$0.10-$0.50 circulated, $2.00-$5.00 in high-grade Brilliant Uncirculated condition.
Care Instructions
Handle by the edges to avoid oils from fingerprints causing dark spots on the aluminum-bronze surface. Do not clean or polish, as this strips the original surface and reduces numismatic value. Store in a dry, PVC-free holder.
Mint Mark
None (Produced by the Casa da Moeda do Brasil, Rio de Janeiro)
Mintage & Rarity
Common; tens of millions produced annually. Not rare in circulated grades.
Weight & Diameter
4.0g weight, 19.0mm diameter
Edge
Plain
Apparent Grade
Fine to Very Fine. Showing significant surface wear, oxidation/toning (the greenish-brown tint), and flattened details on the map.
Obverse (Front)
A map of Brazil with the word 'BRASIL' at the left, surrounded by a beaded border.
Reverse (Back)
Large number '20' above the word 'CENTAVOS' and the year of issue, set against a background of wavy/parallel horizontal lines.
What Drives This Coin's Value
Value is primarily driven by condition (grade). Higher-grade examples with original luster are worth much more than heavily circulated pieces. Key dates within the series (like the 1942 with small or large map variations) can affect value.
Similar Coins
The 10 Centavos and 50 Centavos of the same series look very similar but differ in size and denominations.
Authenticity & Counterfeit Red Flags
These are common low-value coins and are rarely counterfeited. Check for clear, sharp lettering and correct weight (4g).
Notable Varieties & Errors
Some 1942 issues have variations in the size of the 'BRASIL' text and the detail level of the coastline on the map.
Created At: 2026-04-21T03:46:24.966040