Portugal has released the 2015 UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage coin for 2016. The coin celebrates the proud art-form of Cante Alentejano.

Cante Alentejano is a particular style of singing, very similar to A capella where a group of people would perform in unison typically without the use of musical instruments. The unique style of singing originated in the Baixo Ale

ntejo region of southern Portugal. The songs and tradition is passed down through generations of performers and groups often perform during cultural festivals.

Portugal 2016 Proof Silver 2.5 Euro Cante Alentejano coin Reverse

The reverse of the coin depicts the faces o

f a choir, symbolizing the core ideal of the art form. Many faces but one voice, the strength of a community united as one. To the right the words “CANTE ALENTEJANO” and “PATRIMÓNIO IMATERIAL DA HUMANIDADE - UNESCO” appear.

Portugal 2016 Proof Silver 2.5 Euro Cante Alentejano coin Obverse

The obverse shows a group of three faces to the left wearing the traditional hats that are often worn during performances. Next to them appear the Coat of Arms of Portugal, with the denomination of “2.50 EURO” just below that. “PORTUGAL 2016” is inscribed against the upper right rim.

The coin is issued in a sterling silver(.925 Fineness) proof coin measuring 28mm. A limited mintage of 2500 coins will be released encapsulated in a cork case. At the time of release the silver proof coin is set to retail for €45.51(roughly US$52.00)

There will also be a cupro-nickel coin that will act as a circulating commemorative coin with an expected mintage of around 75 000 units. These will be regular business strikes and made available for general circulation as €2.50 coins.

Portugal 2016 Proof Silver 2.5 Euro Cante Alentejano Coin in Box

This is the second only issue in Portugal's UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage collection. The first coin was released in 2015 and celebrated the Fado style of music.