BRAZIL. 20000 Reis, 1727-M. Minas Gerais Mint. Joao V (1706-50). NGC MS-64.

Fr-33; KM-117; LDMB-O251; Gomes-106.04. A tremendous example of this massive gold issue (1.5855 oz AGW), perfectly struck and without evidence of planchet adjustments and exceptionally flashy throughout, showcasing fields that possess prooflike qualities with a trace of golden tone here and there that further emboldens the appearance. Awe-inspiring in hand, this piece boasts a potent combination of heft and eye appeal. An absolutely special coin, fully worthy of its highest graded status and sure to elicit significant excitement from the type collector that demands the finest. 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.