Brazil 1 Cruzeiro 150th Anniversary of Independence
Country of Origin: Brazil
Year of Issue: 1972
Denomination: 1 Cruzeiro
Composition: Nickel
Brief Description
A silver-colored nickel coin featuring the dual portraits of Dom Pedro I and President Emílio Garrastazu Médici.
Historical Significance
Commemorates the 150th anniversary (Sesquicentennial) of Brazil's independence from Portugal (1822–1972). It juxtaposes the historical founder of the Empire with the contemporary president of the military regime.
Estimated Value
$0.25 - $1.00 in circulated condition, $3.00 - $8.00 in Uncirculated (MS) condition.
Care Instructions
Handle by the edges to avoid transferring finger oils. Do not clean or polish, as this significantly reduces numismatic value. Store in a dry, PVC-free holder or flip.
Mint Mark
Does not contain a mint mark; struck at the Casa da Moeda do Brasil (Rio de Janeiro).
Mintage & Rarity
Common; approximately 119,700,000 minted.
Weight & Diameter
7.0 grams, 27.0 mm
Edge
Lettered (contains the text 'SESQUICENTENÁRIO DA INDEPENDÊNCIA 1822-1972')
Apparent Grade
Fine to Very Fine. Showing significant surface wear, scratches, and loss of luster.
Obverse (Front)
Features the overlapping profiles of Emperor Dom Pedro I (left/back) and President Médici (right/front). Includes the text 'BRASIL' and the dates '1822' and '1972'.
Reverse (Back)
Stylized map of Brazil with the denomination '1 CRUZEIRO' superimposed. Includes the official name of the country 'REPÚBLICA FEDERATIVA DO BRASIL'.
What Drives This Coin's Value
Condition is the primary factor. Because of the extremely high mintage, only coins in high Mint State (MS) grades or those with rare striking errors carry a premium.
Similar Coins
Often confused with the silver or gold commemorative versions of the same design (20 Cruzeiros silver, 300 Cruzeiros gold), which are much smaller/larger and made of precious metals.
Authenticity & Counterfeit Red Flags
Check for the edge lettering 'SESQUICENTENÁRIO DA INDEPENDÊNCIA'. Counterfeits of this base metal version are rare, but verify the weight (7g) and diameter (27mm).
Notable Varieties & Errors
None widely recognized for this specific nickel circulation issue, though die rotation errors are occasionally sought after.
Created At: 2026-04-21T03:44:50.508835