ECU / EURO Medal‑Coins
The Portuguese ECU and EURO medal‑coins are commemorative issues minted by INCM between 1992 and 1998, prior to the introduction of the euro. Although the ECU was a virtual monetary unit, Portugal produced several medal‑coins denominated in ECU and later in EURO, including series such as “Europe and the New Worlds” and “Mothers of Europe”, struck in cupronickel or silver with PROOF finish. These pieces are listed in the Unusual World Coins catalog (X‑Numbers) and are valued for their technical quality, European themes and historical significance within the pre‑euro period, making them highly sought after by specialized collectors.