Angola 1 Escudo
Country of Origin: Angola (Portuguese Overseas Province)
Year of Issue: 1956
Denomination: 1 Escudo
Composition: Bronze (95% Copper, 3% Tin, 2% Zinc)
Brief Description
A copper-colored bronze coin with circular legends and the denomination on the obverse, and the colonial coat of arms of Angola on the reverse.
Historical Significance
Issued during Angola's period as a Portuguese Overseas Province under the Estado Novo regime. The Escudo replaced the Angolar in 1958 at par, and these coins reflect the colonial administration's currency system.
Estimated Value
$0.50 - $2.00 in circulated condition, $5.00 - $15.00 in high uncirculated grades.
Care Instructions
Do not clean or polish the coin, as this removes original surface patina and lowers value. Store in a PVC-free flip or archival-safe coin holder in a dry environment.
Mint Mark
None (Lisbon Mint, Portugal)
Mintage & Rarity
8,000,000 (Commonly found in low grades)
Weight & Diameter
8.0g, 26.0mm
Edge
Plain
Apparent Grade
Fine (F) to Very Fine (VF). Shows significant wear on the higher points of the shield and some verdigris (green oxidation) in the recesses.
Obverse (Front)
Centered denomination '1 ESCUDO' with 'REPUBLICA PORTUGUESA' inscribed around the rim.
Reverse (Back)
The date '1956' at the top, the Lesser Arms of Portugal superimposed on the Shield of Angola, with the word 'ANGOLA' at the bottom.
What Drives This Coin's Value
Value is primarily driven by condition. Key dates for this series include 1953, but the 1956 is relatively common.
Similar Coins
Often confused with the 50 Centavos bronze coin of the same era (which is smaller) or Portuguese mainland Escudo coins which lack the unique Angolan coat of arms.
Authenticity & Counterfeit Red Flags
Check for correct weight (8g) and diameter. Counterfeits of this specific date are rare as the market value is low, but look for casting bubbles or fuzzy details.
Notable Varieties & Errors
No major recognized die varieties exist for the 1956 issue.
Created At: 2026-04-22T07:43:42.339202