Portugal. D. Pedro Príncipe Regente (1667-1683). V Reis 1676 - PRINCEPS / PORTVGALIA•ET - Escassa (No reserve price)

The V Reis coin minted in 1676 under the regency of Prince Pedro, who served as Prince Regent for Portugal from 1667 to 1683, is an intriguing specimen of Portuguese currency from the late 17th century. Bearing the inscription "PRINCEPS / PORTVGALIA•ET," this coin reflects the transitional period following King Afonso VI's reign. The 5 Reis denomination was a smaller unit within the Portuguese monetary system, typically minted in copper or bronze. Coins issued during the regency exhibit variations in design and inscriptions as the young prince consolidated power leading up to his eventual kingship as Pedro II. These coins are often classified as scarce, given their limited issuance and survival rates. They provide essential insight into Portugal's monetary history, regional mintage practices, and the symbolism employed by the regent to assert legitimate rule during a time when the monarchy was stabilizing after decades of political and dynastic challenges.