Description

Portuguese Angola, formerly known as Portuguese West Africa until 1951, denotes the historical period when Angola was a territory under Portuguese control in southwestern Africa. Initially confined to coastal regions, Portugal gradually expanded its influence inland, culminating in full territorial control by the early 20th century. The colony's borders were solidified through agreements with other European powers during the Scramble for Africa. Renamed as the Overseas Province of Angola in 1951 and later as the State of Angola in 1973, it eventually gained independence in 1975 as the People's Republic of Angola.

Joseph I (Portuguese: José Francisco António Inácio Norberto Agostinho; 1714– 1777), known as the Reformer, ruled as King of Portugal from 1750 until his death. He was particularly fond of hunting and opera, while his government was largely influenced by Sebastião José de Carvalho e Melo, the 1st Marquis of Pombal. His reign was marked by significant events including the devastating Lisbon earthquake in 1755 and a Spanish-French invasion in 1762. The earthquake led to Joseph's lifelong claustrophobia, prompting him to eschew walled buildings and reside in tents instead. Despite plans for a new palace, Joseph passed away in 1777, succeeded by his eldest daughter, Queen Dona Maria I.

1752:
- 44 pearls: Bentes# 234.01
- Date without dots: Bentes# 234.02

1753:
- 47, 48, 49, 50 or 51 pearls: Bentes# 234.03

1757:
- 44 or 49 pearls: Bentes# 234.04

- Two variants for the cross in the crown: Latin cross and Latin pommy cross
- Also circulated in the colonies of Brazil and Guinea