The ‘Cabo de São Vicente’ collector’s coin won the Top Design award in the ‘HOBBY & SPORTS/Hobby Products: Collectibles’ category at the 2026 European Product Design Award (EPDA), which recognises the best in product design and innovation worldwide.

This project is the result of a collaborative effort combining art, engineering, and research, developed by the National Press and Mint (INCM), Fraunhofer Portugal AICOS, and PIEP—the Centre for Innovation in Polymer Engineering —with the ambition of creating an innovative coin that blends art and technology.

The coin, designed by the sculptor José João de Brito and marking the launch of the series dedicated to ‘Lighthouses of Portugal’, is a limited edition of 4,000 silver coins with a special proof finish and features a polymeric halo capable of emitting light, evoking the essence of the lighthouse as a guiding light.

To this end, an interactive case was designed that transforms the traditional coin packaging into a collectable display. Inspired by the circular geometry of the coin and a lighthouse, the case’s design—which functions as a charging station—combines opaque polymer bodies with a transparent lid, keeping the coin visible whilst protected. The integrated electronic components enable automatic USB-C charging of the coin. When lifted, the lid activates the coin, illuminating it and transforming the case into an interactive display that celebrates the coin’s heritage and value.

Source: INCM