Brazil 10 Cruzeiros (Steel Food Series)
Country of Origin: Brazil - Central Bank of Brazil
Year of Issue: 1990
Denomination: 10 Cruzeiros
Composition: Stainless Steel
Brief Description
A small stainless steel coin featuring a garimpeiro (gold prospector) on the obverse and stylized Southern Cross stars on the reverse.
Historical Significance
Issued during a period of high inflation in Brazil (the 'Lost Decade'), this coin was part of the reform replacing the Cruzado Novo with the third Cruzeiro. It depicts local economic activities, in this case, a 'Garimpeiro' panning for gold.
Estimated Value
$0.25 - $1.00 in circulated condition; $2.00 - $5.00 in Uncirculated (UNC) condition.
Care Instructions
Stainless steel is resistant to corrosion, but the coin should still be handled by the edges. Store in a cool, dry place in an archival-safe holder to prevent scratches.
Mint Mark
None (Casa da Moeda do Brasil, Rio de Janeiro)
Mintage & Rarity
Common; mintage of approximately 600,000,000.
Weight & Diameter
3.58g, 22mm
Edge
Plain
Apparent Grade
Extremely Fine (XF) to About Uncirculated (AU). Metal retains luster but shows minor surface abrasions and bag marks.
Obverse (Front)
Features a 'Garimpeiro' (prospector) panning for gold in a river, symbolizing the country's mineral wealth. The date '1990' is at the bottom.
Reverse (Back)
Large number '10' next to the word 'CRUZEIROS' and 'BRASIL'. The background features a curved stripe representing the Brazilian flag and stars of the Southern Cross.
What Drives This Coin's Value
Condition is the primary factor. Because of high mintage figures, only coins in high-grade Mint State fetch a premium from type collectors.
Similar Coins
Often confused with the smaller 1989/1990 Cruzado Novo coins or other denominations in the 1990-1994 Cruzeiro series such as the 1 or 5 Cruzeiro coins which have similar steel finishes.
Authenticity & Counterfeit Red Flags
Authentic coins are magnetic (due to steel composition) and have sharp, clear relief. Counterfeits are rare for this low-value denomination.
Notable Varieties & Errors
No major rare varieties are recognized for this specific year, though collectors look for doubling in the legends ('CRUZEIROS').
Created At: 2026-04-24T20:12:50.424705