Coins of Queen Maria I (1786-1816)

The coins of Queen Maria I (1786-1816) correspond to the second phase of her reign, which began after the death of King Pedro III in 1786. During this period, the coinage bears the legend MARIA I DEI GRATIA, clearly distinguishing it from the earlier joint issues. Known as “The Pious”, Maria I continued as monarch until 1816, although from 1799 onward the government was effectively led by her son, Prince Regent João, due to her declining mental health. The coinage of this phase includes copper, silver and gold issues, maintaining mechanical minting and reflecting the political transition that preceded the Regency period.