BRAZIL. 20000 Reis, 1727-M. Minas Gerais Mint. Joao V. NGC MS-61.

Fr-33; KM-117; LDMB-O251. This handsome large size gold coin exhibits bold devices with plenty of remaining luster in the protected areas. A pale golden coloration adds to its pleasing appearance and originality of this classic gold issue. Struck at the height of the Portuguese overseas trade empire, largely due to the Brazilian diamond and gold deposits that provided Portugal (and King Joao V) with substantial profits. Speculation has it that Portugal collected more gold from Brazil in a few decades than Spain took from the rest of Central and South America over 400 years.