A Portuguese silver coin, struck for the possessions in India, at Diu, Ceilao, and Bassein, but principally at Goa.

The name is variously written Xeraphin, Xerafine, Xerafin, Xarife, Xarafin, Seraphin, Zeraphin, and Cherafin, and is probably derived from the Arabic Ashrafi (q.v.).

The coin is mentioned by Vasco da Gama as early as 1498, and a century later is referred to as being equal to three hun- dred Portuguese Reis. The value in the seventeenth century appears to be:

Santo Thome = 12 Xeraphins. Seraphln = 5 Tangas. Tanga = 5 Vlntems. Vintcm = 15 Bazaruccos.

The value, however, fluctuated greatly, and the type also varied. The armorial shield of Portugal is on one side and the effigy of St. John or St. Sebastian on the reverse. The Xeraphin Cruzado presents a large cross, with the four figures of the date in the angles.