The 20 Escudos banknote from Portugal features a rich historical design that reflects the nation's artistic heritage.
Obverse (front)
The front of the 20 Escudos banknote showcases an intricate design with a vivid color palette primarily featuring green and purple hues. A prominent portrait of Antonio Luiz de Menezes captures the viewer's attention, dressed in elaborate attire indicative of his historical significance. The background features ornate patterns that blend seamlessly with the banknote's border, enhancing its aesthetic appeal. Notably, this side also encompasses security features such as a watermark and micro-printing, ensuring its authenticity. The denomination 'Vinte Escudos' is clearly displayed, providing essential information for identification.
Reverse (back)
The back of the banknote is equally detailed, displaying an ornate floral motif that complements the theme of the front. The color grading remains consistent, showcasing rich greens and subtle purples. This side does not feature a portrait but instead includes architectural symbolism, which ties back to Portugal's cultural identity. The top states 'BANCO de PORTUGAL' prominently, reinforcing the bank's authority. Security elements like transparent windows and holograms can often be found in different iterations of notes but may vary in strength depending on the series. The date '26 DE JULHO DE 1960' marks its issuance, anchoring the note in history.