Portuguese India – King Charles I ½ Tanga Bronze Coin 1903 AD Lisboa Mint

Reverse: Crowned Portuguese royal coat of arms, representing the authority of the Portuguese monarchy, with the legend “INDIA PORTUGUEZA” (Portuguese India) above and around the central emblem and the denomination “½ TANGA” below. The design is surrounded by a milled border.

King of Portugal Carlos I (1889-1908 CE), a member of the House of Braganza, ruled during the final decades of the Portuguese monarchy. Born in 1863, he was known as “the Diplomat” for his international interests. Portuguese expansion into India began with Vasco da Gama’s arrival at Calicut in 1498, initially seeking control of the lucrative spice trade. In 1510, Afonso de Albuquerque captured Goa, establishing the foundation of Portuguese colonial administration in India. Over subsequent centuries, Portugal maintained coastal territories including Goa, Daman and Diu through maritime power, trade and military alliances. Carlos I was assassinated in Lisbon on 1 February 1908 alongside his eldest son, Luís Filipe. His younger son, Manuel II, became Portugal’s last king before the monarchy was abolished in 1910. However, Portuguese colonial rule continued under the republic. Following Indian independence, Portuguese possessions remained under foreign control until Goa, Daman and Diu were incorporated into India in December 1961.