Azores, Portugal. D. Maria I (1786-1799). 20 Reis 1796 - Escassa

This coin hails from the Azores, an autonomous region of Portugal known for its volcanic islands in the North Atlantic. The 20 Reis coin, dated 1796, was minted under the reign of Queen Maria I, who ruled from 1786 to 1799. Coins from this era hold significant historical and regional value, especially those bearing the name of the Azores, highlighting their unique local monetary history within the Portuguese empire. The Reis denomination was used extensively in Portugal and its territories until the late 19th century. Coins from the 18th century like this 20 Reis help illustrate economic conditions and minting practices of their time, often featuring detailed engravings typical of royal imagery and island representations. Due to their relative rarity, Azorean coins from this period attract collectors interested in Portuguese colonial and territorial coinage.