Coins of King Sancho I (1185-1211)
The coins of King Sancho I, known as “the Populator”, reflect the continued consolidation of the young Portuguese kingdom after the reign of Afonso I. He ruled from 1185 to 1211, promoting settlement, territorial defense and administrative development. His coinage maintained the production of silver dinheiros and half‑dinheiros in bolhão alloy, following the monetary pattern established by his father. These coins feature simple medieval iconography, with crosses and inscriptions asserting royal authority. Although less varied than in later periods, the coinage of Sancho I is essential for understanding the early evolution of Portuguese money and remains highly valued among collectors of medieval numismatics.