1814-B Brazil John VI Silver 960 Réis – gVF

Brazil, the Spanish Sidestep, and King John VI’s Royal Getaway

A Land Too Lush to Ignore

When Europeans first laid eyes on Brazil’s coastline in the early 1500s, they likely blinked twice. Lush forests, endless rivers, and an untapped wealth of natural resources beckoned. The Spanish, busy dividing the New World with the Portuguese under the Treaty of Tordesillas (1494), originally hoped Brazil would fall on their side of the line. Unfortunately for them, their dreams stopped at a line on a map.

Portugal Grabs the Prize

While Spain focused westward, chasing gold through Peru and Mexico, Portugal quietly tightened its grip on Brazil. By 1500, Pedro Álvares Cabral had claimed the land for the Portuguese crown, essentially shutting the door on any serious Spanish ambitions. Though a few Spanish explorers wandered in now and then, they left barely a footprint.

Enter King John VI: Royalty on the Run

Now, fast forward to 1807, and Europe finds itself knee-deep in Napoleonic drama. Napoleon’s troops were storming Portugal, and the royal family had a choice: stay and face ruin or flee to safety. King John VI, not one for unnecessary heroics, chose the latter. In a scene fit for a historical comedy, the entire Portuguese court packed up its wigs, jewels, and royal pets, setting sail across the Atlantic—destination: Rio de Janeiro.

Brazil Becomes the Royal Hotspot

Once in Brazil, John VI didn’t sulk. Instead, he ruled from Rio, transforming the colony into the beating heart of the Portuguese Empire. He opened ports to foreign trade, established schools and banks, and gave Brazil a taste of European sophistication—along with his famously poor table manners.

A Kingdom Reimagined

Though he returned to Portugal in 1821, King John VI had irrevocably changed Brazil. He had elevated it from a colonial outpost to a kingdom in its own right. Soon after, his son Pedro I declared Brazil’s independence, likely inspired by his father’s tropical throne.

Conclusion: From Side Story to Centre Stage

What began as a minor Spanish oversight became a Portuguese masterpiece. Thanks to a French invasion and a king with decent sea legs, Brazil emerged from the shadows—not just as a colony, but as a future empire in its own right.

Certificate of Authenticity

We guarantee the authenticity and grade on our products, unless stated otherwise.

All ancient coins are accompanied by a certificate of authenticity.

In the rare incident you are dissatisfied with an item you purchase from us, simply return it within 7 days (Within Australia) 14 Days (International) and we provide you with a replacement or issue you a refund in full.

Not available

Postage Methods within Australia.

We ship Australia wide using registered signed for delievery

Orders under AUD$199 are sent registered signed for mail

Orders above AUD$200 are sent express signed for mail

Do you ship overseas?

Yes, we ship items overseas, using a number of services. Orders under AUD$199 are automatically sent via international registered mail. Items greater than AUD$200 are sent via Express Courier International service.

Tracking & Proof of Shipment

All shipping and tracking information is provided upon time of despatch.