Portugal 2012 European Capital of Culture 2012, the city of Guimarães in northern Portugal
European Capital of Culture 2012, the city of
Guimarães in northern Portugal
One of Portugal’s
most important historical cities, Guimarães is considered the “birthplace of
the Portuguese nation,” the site where the country was founded in the 9th
century by King D. Afonso I (1109-1185), Portugal’s first ruler. He played an
important role in many of the events that led to the country’s independence in
1143.
Located in the northern region of Minho,
Guimarães, with its distinctive 10th-century castle, is classified a UNESCO
World Heritage Site. The city also prides itself on its impressive architecture
including many traditional buildings from the 15th to 19th century.
The inner part of the
coin depicts a stylised image of Afonso Henriques, the first King of Portugal,
together with his sword and the Castle of Guimarães, which is regarded as the
birthplace of Portugal as an independent nation in the 12th century. To the
left of the image is the Portuguese shield above the word “PORTUGAL”. To the
lower right is the inscription “GUIMARÃES 2012” with the logo of Guimarães 2012
European Capital of Culture. Along the lower edge of the inner part are the
mintmark “INCM” and the name of the designer, “JOSÉ DE GUIMARÃES”. The outer
ring bears the 12 stars of the European Union.
Weight - 8.5 g.
Quality - UNC (Uncirculated)
Diameter - 25.75 mm.
Composition - Bimetallic - nickel brass clad
nickel center in copper-nickel ring
Circulation - 520'000 pcs.
Country of origin - Portugal
Year of release - 2012
