100 Escudos POR Banknote (Mid-20th Century Escudo Notes) 1961

100 Escudos Reis / Escudo (Issued 1961)

The 100 Escudos banknote from 1961 represents a pivotal moment in Portuguese currency design, issued during the latter stages of the Estado Novo period when the nation’s financial institutions were modernising their note production. Collectors recognise this denomination for its distinctive purple-mauve colour palette and the refined engraving quality characteristic of mid-20th century Portuguese Banco de Portugal notes. The serial number BTG 18926 and denomination markings appear in multiple locations on the obverse, indicating the careful layout planning typical of this era’s security standards. The note’s withdrawal from circulation decades ago has made it a genuine historical artefact rather than a contemporary currency item.

On the front, the banknote displays the full title “BANCO DE PORTUGAL” in an elegant serif typeface across the top, flanked by ornamental guilloché borders rendered in deep purple. The right side features a three-quarter profile portrait of a bearded male figure wearing sixteenth-century formal dress with a high collar and elaborately patterned doublet, executed in fine line engraving that creates subtle tonal gradations. The denomination “100” appears in large outlined numerals at both the left and right margins, with the text “CEM ESCUDOS” printed in green-tinted currency-grade typography beneath an ornamental coat of arms seal. The phrase “OURO” appears directly beneath the denomination text, denoting the gold standard reference of the period. A rectangular security strip or underprint area occupies the left-centre section, rendered in cream and pale green tones. The serial number “BTG 18926” is visible twice on the note, and multiple handwritten or engraved signatures appear in the lower portion, typical of Portuguese banknote issue procedures. The entire design is enclosed within a distinctive rectangular frame composed of fine parallel lines and decorative corner elements.

The reverse displays a substantial architectural scene on the left side, depicting an interior chamber or hall with classical columns, arched doorways, and what appears to be an ornamental altar or ceremonial fixture rendered in fine purple line engraving. A large oval portrait medallion positioned centrally features a bearded historical figure in Renaissance-period clothing, surrounded by an ornamental cartouche border. The denomination “100” in large outlined numerals appears at both the upper left and lower left corners, with “BANCO DE PORTUGAL” printed in capitals across the top. The text “CEM ESCUDOS” is positioned in the centre-right area, accompanied by decorative guilloché patterns in green and purple tones. A substantial white unmarked area dominates the right half of the reverse, consistent with the design layout of this series. The overall paper exhibits the characteristic slight cream tint and texture typical of Portuguese banknote production from this period, with visible watermark show-through confirming the quality security measures employed.

Webuyallcurrency.com buys foreign coins and banknotes for cash, including this 100 Escudos banknote from Portugal. Send it in with any other Portuguese Escudos banknotes you have and we will handle the exchange in a single straightforward process.

• Indicate the quantity of 100 Escudos Reis / Escudo banknotes you want to exchange
• Click the ‘Add to your account’ button
• Your online account now shows the exchange value

Whether you want to sell foreign coins and notes or exchange leftover currency from past trips, Webuyallcurrency.com accepts Portuguese Escudos banknotes alongside modern money and settles everything in a single, easy transaction.