Fraunhofer Center for Assistive Information and Communication Solutions – AICOS
08.05.2026
Fraunhofer Portugal AICOS has contributed to the development of a new commemorative coin issued by Imprensa Nacional–Casa da Moeda (INCM), dedicated to the Cabo de São Vicente Lighthouse and integrated into the “Lighthouses of Portugal” collection.
Available in its Silver Proof version since April 28, the coin introduces a significant innovation in national numismatics through the integration of a translucent polymer ring capable of emitting light, symbolically evoking the guiding function of a lighthouse. This feature results from a collaborative research and development effort between INCM Lab, Fraunhofer Portugal AICOS, and PIEP – Innovation in Polymer Engineering.
The project originated from a challenging vision proposed by INCM’s innovation division: to create a unique numismatic object capable of emitting light through a polymer-based structure integrated into the coin’s perimeter, activated through a simple user interaction when removed from its case. Fraunhofer Portugal AICOS led the technological and electronic development of the solution, while INCM Lab and PIEP contributed expertise in numismatics and polymer engineering, respectively.
Through iterative simulation and experimental validation of multiple electronic circuit designs, the team developed a minimalist system capable of energy storage, rectification, and controlled light emission, fully encapsulated within the constraints of a traditional coin format.
“The initial challenge was fundamentally research-driven, as we were aware of the significant risk of not achieving a viable solution from both an electronic and a production perspective at scale. Once this objective was achieved, the focus shifted towards understanding what was required to transform the concept into a functional and commercially viable solution.”, underlines Miguel Roque, Researcher at Fraunhofer Portugal AICOS.
Given the highly technical nature of the coin, the project required a complete rethinking of its surrounding ecosystem. The coin’s casing, for instance, had to be redesigned to ensure appropriate electrical conditions for energy transfer and activation, while preserving the aesthetic identity of traditional commemorative coins produced by INCM.
This phase introduced a strong Human-Centred Design (HCD) component, ensuring that functional requirements were balanced with usability and aesthetic coherence. The development also required rethinking the broader ecosystem around the coin, including its casing. The challenge was to ensure the necessary electrical conditions for charging while preserving the aesthetic coherence expected from a commemorative numismatic piece. This balance between functionality, usability and design was central to the project.
“This project demonstrates how the discreet integration of electronics into physical matter can transform a traditional object into an experiential artefact, where technology and design are no longer separate layers but become part of the object’s intrinsic meaning.” — Ruben Moutinho, Researcher at Fraunhofer Portugal AICOS.
Beyond its technical achievement, the project reflects a strongly interdisciplinary approach, combining design, electronics, advanced materials, and user experience, with a focus on reliability, security, and seamless integration into existing production processes.
More than a collector’s item, this coin represents the convergence of art, engineering, and technology, opening new possibilities for the future of numismatic design and the integration of advanced functionalities into physical artefacts.
For INCM, this initiative reinforces its position at the forefront of numismatic innovation. For Fraunhofer Portugal AICOS, it further demonstrates its role as a technology partner in complex, real-world challenges, translating applied research into impactful industrial solutions.
The coin is available through INCM’s physical stores and online shop.