Portugal 6400 Reis (Peça)

A large gold coin featuring the laureate bust of King João V (John V) of Portugal and the ornate Portuguese royal coat of arms.

The João V 6400 Reis, or 'Peça', was a major international trade coin during the 18th century, largely fueled by the massive gold strikes in Minas Gerais, Brazil. It was widely accepted and even circulated in the British American colonies.

Laureate head of King João V right, legend: JOANNES V D.G. PORT. ET ALG. REX (John V by the Grace of God King of Portugal and the Algarves). Date 1749 and mint mark B below.

A simple ornate crowned shield containing the Portuguese coat of arms within a baroque frame.

$1,200 - $2,500 for authentic circulated specimens; however, the pictured item appears to be a low-quality modern reproduction or jewelry replica.

The surface texture, lack of sharp detail, and 'pitted' grainy appearance suggest this is not a genuine mint strike but a modern cast replica or base-metal copy with plating.

Common for the type, though high-grade examples are sought after.

Some variations in the laureate hair curls and the exact style of the 'B' mint mark exist for different years in the series provided by the Bahia mint in Brazil. Note: This specific image shows a clear (R) circle mark, confirming it is a replica/copy coin used for jewelry or decoration rather than an original 1749 currency piece.

Often confused with the smaller 4000 Reis or the British Guinea which circulated alongside it.

Genuine gold is soft and easily scratched; handle only by the edges. Do not clean or polish, as this destroys numismatic value. Store in a PVC-free archival holder.