Brazil 2 Reais Baron of Rio Branco Stainless Steel Clad Coin
Coin/Bullion (Circulating Numismatic) · Casa da Moeda do Brasil (Brazilian Mint), founded in 1694 by King Peter II of Portugal.
Pattern: Second Family of the Real (Real Series II), Baron of Rio Branco Obverse
Type
Coin/Bullion (Circulating Numismatic)
Maker
Casa da Moeda do Brasil (Brazilian Mint), founded in 1694 by King Peter II of Portugal.
Material
Stainless Steel (Copper-Nickel and Brass plated versions exist in different denominations, but this 2-Reais-styled obverse on a monochrome planchet is stainless steel). IMPORTANT: This item contains 0% Silver content.
Dimensions
Diameter: 25.0 mm; Thickness: 2.25 mm; Weight: 7.0 grams.
Description
An official circulating coin of Brazil. While the metallic luster mimics the appearance of silver, it is a utilitarian base-metal coin. The design honors the Baron of Rio Branco, a pivotal diplomat who consolidated Brazil's modern borders. It features a modern, clean strike with distinctive horizontal lining that represents a stylistic departure from traditional portraiture.
Key Features
Portrait of Baron of Rio Branco shifted to the right; repetitive horizontal line pattern providing a security and aesthetic texture; 'BRASIL' incused on the lower right.
Material & Composition
Stainless Steel (Copper-Nickel and Brass plated versions exist in different denominations, but this 2-Reais-styled obverse on a monochrome planchet is stainless steel). IMPORTANT: This item contains 0% Silver content.
Finish & Decoration
Machine-struck satin finish with brushed horizontal lines on the left field. Obverse features the effigy of José Maria da Silva Paranhos Jr., the Baron of Rio Branco, with the word 'BRASIL'.
Hallmarks & Stamps
No silver hallmarks. Features official national numismatic stamps including the country name 'BRASIL' and the designer's initials (if visible on reverse).
Construction Details
Industrial die-struck coinage; mass-produced by high-pressure mechanical presses on prepared cylindrical planchets.
Functional Features
Serrated/reeded edge for tactile identification and to deter shaving of the metal; magnetic property due to steel core.
Handle & Grip Details
N/A (Numismatic item designed for pocket use and handheld circulation).
Craftsmanship Details
Precision industrial minting. Excellent symmetry and consistent relief. It demonstrates high-quality modern mass-production rather than artisanal hand-wrought silver work.
Authentication Indicators
Alignment of the 'BRASIL' text; correct depth of the horizontal field lines; machine-milled edge. Note: It lacks the weight/density of silver and is magnetic.
Origin & Manufacturing
Rio de Janeiro, Brazil; produced by the National Mint under the authority of the Central Bank of Brazil.
Era & Period
Contemporary Plano Real Era; Modern Brazil (Post-1994 monetary reform).
Age Estimate
Circa 1998 to present (Specifically likely post-2002 based on the 'Second Family' design traits).
Cultural Significance
Represents the stabilization of the Brazilian economy through the Real Plan. It serves as a daily reminder of national heritage and diplomatic history for millions of citizens.
Condition Notes
Very Fine (VF) to Extra Fine (XF). Shows light circulation wear and minor contact marks. Housed in a protective plastic flip to prevent further oxidation or scratching. No significant tarnish (typical of stainless steel).
Value Estimate
Face value: 2 Reais (Approx $0.40 USD). Collector value for a circulated specimen: $0.50 - $1.50 USD. This is a common circulation coin, not a silver investment piece.
Care & Maintenance
Do not clean with silver polish or abrasives as it is not silver. Keep in the current PVC-free plastic flip. Avoid high humidity to prevent spotting on the steel surface.
Similar Pieces
1 Real Bi-metallic coin (Steel with Brass ring); 50 Centavos (Stainless steel but smaller/thicker). Often confused with silver medals by novice collectors due to the high-polish finish.
Interesting Facts
The Baron of Rio Branco is considered the 'Father of Brazilian Diplomacy.' This design won international acclaim for its modern aesthetic when first introduced to replace the First Family of the Real.