Portuguese Banknotes

Explore a fascinating and highly collectable range of Portuguese banknotes, featuring historic paper money issued by the Banco de Portugal during the era of the Portuguese escudo (PTE). These notes represent over 90 years of monetary history, spanning from the early 20th century through to Portugal’s transition to the euro in 2002.

From early engraved designs to the beautifully illustrated final escudo series, Portuguese banknotes are widely collected for their historical depth, iconic national themes, and detailed artwork celebrating Portugal’s rich cultural and maritime heritage.

A Currency with a Rich Historical Legacy

The Portuguese escudo was introduced in 1911, replacing the real, and remained the national currency until the introduction of the euro in 2002. Throughout its circulation, multiple banknote series were issued, reflecting Portugal’s political, cultural, and economic evolution.

The final escudo banknotes in circulation before the euro included denominations such as:

• 500 escudos
• 1,000 escudos
• 2,000 escudos
• 5,000 escudos
• 10,000 escudos

Earlier series also included a wide variety of lower denominations and transitional issues, making Portuguese banknotes a rich and varied collecting field.

Design, Culture, and the Age of Discovery

Portuguese banknotes are especially renowned for their striking designs, many of which celebrate Portugal’s legendary maritime history. The final escudo series is particularly iconic, featuring figures from the Age of Discovery, including:

• Vasco da Gama
• Henry the Navigator
• Bartolomeu Dias
• Pedro Álvares Cabral
• João de Barros

These designs reflect Portugal’s global influence during the era of exploration and remain some of the most recognisable and sought-after European banknotes among collectors.

Why Collect Portuguese Banknotes?

Portuguese banknotes are highly sought after by collectors of:

• European and world paper money
• Historic discontinued currencies
• Age of Discovery and maritime-themed notes
• Pre-euro national currency collections

Their appeal lies in their strong historical storytelling, elegant engraving, and connection to one of Europe’s most influential seafaring nations.

Graded & Collectable Notes

At The London Coin Company , we offer a carefully selected range of Portuguese banknotes in collectable condition, including both circulated examples and higher-grade notes suitable for serious collectors.

Whether you are looking for:

• Final series escudo banknotes (500 to 10,000 escudos)
• Earlier 20th-century Portuguese issues
• Crisp uncirculated examples
• High-grade European world paper money

…you’ll find a curated selection ideal for both new and experienced collectors.

A Classic Area of European Currency Collecting

Portuguese banknotes stand out for their historical significance, artistic design, and connection to a major European trading power. As a now-discontinued currency, the escudo series remains a rewarding and increasingly popular area of world banknote collecting.

Browse our available Portuguese banknotes below and add a distinctive piece of European monetary history to your collection today.