1964 Portugal 20 Escudos Banknote – Santo António of Padua | P#167 | Numista N#202771

This 1964 20 Escudos banknote from the Banco de Portugal is a distinguished Second Republic issue, printed in Lisbon and circulating until demonetisation in 1986. Featuring Saint Anthony of Padua on the obverse and the Church of Santo António de Lisboa on the reverse, the design reflects Portugal’s religious heritage and national identity.

Issued on 26 May 1964, this note is part of the 1964–1979 series and remains a sought‑after collectible for enthusiasts of European and Catholic‑themed currency.


Key Specifications
Attribute Details
Issuer Banco de Portugal
Denomination 20 Escudos
Year of Issue 1964
Pick Number P#167 (Standard Catalog of World Paper Money)
Numista Reference N#202771
Dimensions Approx. 135 × 66 mm
Material Paper, intaglio printed
Watermark Saint Anthony of Padua
Design Series 1964–1979 Issue
Demonetised 30 May 1986



Design Overview

Obverse: Olive‑green and purple on multicolour underprint; portrait of Saint Anthony of Padua at right; denomination and Banco de Portugal legend.

Reverse: Illustration of the Church of Santo António de Lisboa at left; ornate decorative motifs.

Security Features: Watermark of Saint Anthony, serial number variation, and detailed engraving.


Collector Appeal

Religious Iconography: Saint Anthony of Padua, patron saint of Lisbon, adds strong cultural and devotional significance.

Historic Portuguese Issue: Circulated during the Second Republic era.

Demonetised Currency: Withdrawn in 1986, now valued for its rarity and symbolism.

Catalogued Reference: Listed as P#167 and Numista N#202771, aiding identification and valuation.

Summary

The 1964 Portugal 20 Escudos note is a must‑have for collectors of European currency, Catholic iconography, and demonetised Portuguese issues. Its portrait of Saint Anthony and depiction of his Lisbon church make it a culturally rich and historically significant collectible.