Brazil 500 Cruzeiros Coin (First Issued 1992)

The 500 Cruzeiros coin belongs to the final phase of Brazil’s pre-reform currency system, issued just before the transition into the Cruzeiro Real. With a large denomination and a detailed marine wildlife design, it reflects both economic change and environmental themes. Although withdrawn, coins like this can still be exchanged through Webuyallcurrency.com.

Can this 500 Cruzeiros coin be exchanged?

Yes. Despite being from an obsolete currency, this coin can still be processed and included in a submission, allowing it to be converted into a single payment.

Key information

About the Brazil 500 Cruzeiros Coin

This coin uses a single-metal, silver-toned composition with a relatively broad, open field that allows the engraved design to dominate visually. Compared to smaller denominations, the layout here is more expansive, giving greater prominence to both imagery and typography.

Obverse (Front)

The obverse features a marine turtle (“tartaruga marinha”) shown in a dynamic, upward swimming orientation. The body is angled diagonally from the lower right toward the upper left, giving the impression of forward movement through water.

The turtle’s shell is engraved with a series of polygonal segments, each defined by thin خطوط that create a patterned surface. These segments vary slightly in size, adding a naturalistic irregularity to the shell structure.

The front flipper extends outward and upward, occupying a large portion of the left side of the coin. Fine engraved خطوط run along the flipper, suggesting both texture and motion. The rear flipper is partially visible, positioned behind the body and angled downward.

The head is smaller in proportion, with a rounded shape and minimal facial detailing, keeping focus on the broader body structure.

Above the turtle, the word “TARTARUGA” is engraved in a straight horizontal line, while “MARINHA” is positioned vertically along the right-hand side of the coin. The two inscriptions form a visual frame around the animal without enclosing it completely.

At the base of the composition, soft, curved shapes suggest underwater terrain or seabed contours. These are lightly engraved, providing context without overpowering the main subject.

A double-line border runs around the rim, creating a clean boundary that contains the design.

Reverse

The reverse is dominated by a large “500” positioned centrally, with the numerals occupying most of the coin’s surface. The digits are bold and rounded, with smooth faces and consistent thickness, giving them strong visual weight.

Above the numeral, the word “BRASIL” is engraved in uppercase letters, following a gentle arc near the rim. The lettering is evenly spaced and slightly raised.

To the left of the central numeral, the year “1992” is engraved vertically, running downward along the inner edge. The numerals are smaller but sharply defined, providing a secondary point of detail.

Below the “500,” the word “cruzeiros” is engraved in a more flowing, script-like style compared to the rigid geometry of the numerals above. This introduces variation in typography and softens the overall composition.

At the base of the coin, a series of abstract, overlapping shapes form a layered foundation. These shapes resemble stylised terrain or geological forms, with shallow engraving creating subtle depth.

The reverse design uses contrast between bold numerals and softer, more organic shapes to create a balanced composition.

Why coins like this are not accepted by banks

Withdrawn currencies and foreign coins are not processed by most banks due to handling costs and logistical complexity. This makes specialist exchange services the only practical option.

How your 500 Cruzeiros coins are valued

We apply a fixed pricing structure, allowing you to see the value instantly before sending your coins. This ensures transparency and consistency.

How to exchange your coins

1. Enter the quantity of 500 Cruzeiros coins you have
2. Add them to your account
3. View your total exchange value immediately

You can then complete your submission.

Where these coins are typically found

These coins are often retained from travel to Brazil in the early 1990s, stored in collections, or kept in mixed foreign currency holdings following monetary reforms.

Do you accept other Brazilian coins

Yes, we accept a wide range of Brazilian coins and banknotes, including older and withdrawn currencies. Multiple denominations can be submitted together.

FAQ: Brazil 500 Cruzeiros Coin (1992)

Can I exchange Brazil 500 Cruzeiros coins in the UK

Yes, they can be exchanged through specialist services even though they are no longer in circulation.

Is this coin still legal tender in Brazil

No, the Cruzeiro has been replaced and is no longer used.

Why won’t banks accept this coin

Banks do not process withdrawn currencies or foreign coins due to logistical and cost constraints.

How do I find out what it’s worth

You can see the value instantly by adding it to your account.

Can I send this with other currencies

Yes, you can include it alongside other coins and banknotes in one submission.

How long does payment take

Payment is typically made within 5 working days after processing.

What is the safest way to send coins

We recommend using a tracked and insured postal service such as Royal Mail Special Delivery.

Give older currency a practical outcome

If you have Brazil 500 Cruzeiros coins, Webuyallcurrency.com offers a direct way to exchange foreign coins and notes and turn them into a single usable payment rather than leaving them unused.