98. Brazil (Minas mint), 4000 reis, João V, 1725-MMMM, encapsulated NGC AU 55, tied for finest known in NGC census. Russo-241; KM-115. Extremely
rare type from the dobrão series of the Minas Gerais mint, within which only a few of this date are known. This top specimen exhibits beautiful natural “cabinet” toning, darkening toward the rims over original luster, in our opinion at least a grade higher than stated. As usual, it seems a lack of comparable specimens has sparked conservativeness, as this is one of only two listed in the current NGC census of gradable specimens, both AU 55 and our coin visibly superior. Mintage of this denomination was suspended in 1727; when it resumed in 1749 it was at a lower weight of 8.07 grams. Pedigreed to the New England Collection. Estimate: $15,000-up.
99. Brazil (struck in Lisbon), 4000 reis, João V, 1749, encapsulated NGC AU 55. Russo-292; KM-164. One-year type struck at Lisbon for the State of Maranhao. First year of new standard, as earlier 4000 reis weighed 10.75 grams. Much luster but some minor wear or weak strike on highest points. Pedigreed to the New England Collection. Estimate: $2,500-$3,750.
100. Brazil (Bahia mint), 3200 reis, João V, 1750-B, encapsulated NGC AU 50, finest and only known specimen in NGC
census. Russo-132; KM-133. Extremely rare Bahia type, a classic rarity in the Brazilian series, virtually impossible to acquire in any condition, with probably only thee specimens known across all the potential dates (1727-1750), despite what Russo shows. In fact this type is totally absent in all important collections on record, and the present coin is the only one known to be graded (and therefore problem-free), with lovely old toning, its red hue gracing the outline of all the devices, all details sharp but with a minimum of wear, worthy for display in a museum. It should be noted also that this specific date is potentially the rarest by virtue of the fact that João V died in Lisbon on July 31, 1750, and new coins under his successor José I started the same year. Pedigreed to the New England Collection. Estimate: $35,000-up.
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