Israel Releases Tower of David First Gold Bullion Coin

May 2010: The Israeli Coin and Medal Corp has issued the first gold bullion coin to be released from Israel. The coin is the first in a new annual series entitled "Jerusalem of Gold" and is dedicated to various historical landmarks throughout the Holy Land. This inaugural release has been struck to honour the famous Tower of David that overlooks Old Jerusalem.


Israel 2010 20 New Sheqalim Tower of David Gold Brilliant Uncirculated

Since it's release in May 2010, the 20 New Sheqalim Tower of David gold coin has proven to be very popular with collectors across the globe, no doubt eager to own a piece of history. First release bullion coins tend to be like any other "first" on the collector market; whether it's numismatics, comic books, china or artworks - people scramble to own the first of any release as it will always be the most sought-after. The Tower of David gold coin has proven to follow suit, with the majority of it's 3600 mintage already exhausted across the primary market despite the price of 1 ounce of Gold being out of reach for a lot of collectors. Those discerning few who have managed to grab one of this historic issues will no doubt be holding on to them for a good long time.

The Tower of David as we know it these days is located on the site of the original tower of King David, however that tower was completely flattened many hundreds of years before the reconstructed tower was built. Since the reconstruction in the second century BCE, the tower has been destroyed and reconstructed a number of times due to various religious factions engaging in military attacks on the city in order to conquer it. These days the tower is regarded as a famous religious landmark and is visited by millions of people who come to the Holy Land of Jerusalem as tourists or pilgrims.

Each of these superb gold coins is struck from 31.10 grams (1 ounce) of 99.9% fine gold on a 32.00mm flan. The obverse design features the Lion of Megiddo motif, taken from an ancient seal found in the Northern Israeli community of Megiddo. This design will be common to all coins issued in the Jerusalem for Gold coin program. On the reverse is portion of the historic Tower of David as it overlooks Old Jerusalem. In the upper right is the face value of 20 Sheqalim, together with the year of issue (2010) as well as the Hebrew year (5771), with the 6-pointed Star of David below. Around the rim in the upper and right portions of the coin are the inscriptions for the country of issue and the coin specifications.

The coin is then encapsulated and housed within an official presentation case, accompanied by a Certificate of Authenticity.

Euro Collections International Celebrates The Festive Season With Christmas Collector Coins!

Yes, it's that time of the year again - the first snowflakes have appeared, decorations are dusted off to be hung around the tree, and if you listen very carefully you just might hear a faint ringing sound...sleigh bells? No, it's the chorus of cash registers chiming as consumers across the globe scramble for gifts to buy and wrap and give to their loved ones!

Yes, Christmas is once again upon us!

It seems to come around faster and faster each year, and advertisers seems to start marketing for Christmas earlier and earlier in the hope of snaffling a customer's buying loyalty before anyone else can. Like any industry numismatics also celebrates the festive season, with countries all over the world producing a range of Christmas-themed products they hope will dazzle collectors, or at least inspire them to buy as a gift for someone else.

Euro Collections International has just released it's Christmas offerings for 2010 and they are an eclectic mix of eye-catching, innovative, and sentimental releases, sure to bring a little cheer no matter what sort of collector you are.


Palau 2010 $5 Merry Christmas Silver Proof

First cab of the rank is this adorable silver coin struck by the authority of the pacific nation of Palau. Focusing on the more traditional, religious part of Christmas (as opposed to the jolly man in the red suit), the coin features a stunning design off the Star of Bethlehem, which is said to have guided the 3 wise men to the place where Jesus was born. This colour-enhanced coin has been struck to high-quality Proof standards and features an eye-catching "glitter effect" on the star itself, giving off a spectacular effect when the light catches the particles of glitter on the surface.


Canada 2010 50c Lenticular Santa & Rudolph BU

Canada are a leader in both colour minting technology, as well as lenticular advancements in coin production. This stunning addition to their stable of innovative coins features beautifully constructed, full-colour designs of Santa Claus and his trusty helper Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer! Shown as two separate images, the designs can be seen by tilting the Brilliant Uncirculated coin and different angles. Truly a wonderful gift idea for the collector who has everything!


Benin 2010 100Fr Christmas Tree Scent Coloured Silver-Plated Proof

Released as part of the Famous Plants of the World series, but just in time for Christmas, this silver-plated release from Benin pays tribute to the ornamental Christmas Tree, used for decoration each year and a place for Christmas presents to be placed beneath. In many homes a real tree is used for this purpose and this coin uses state-of-the-art technology to provide an extra-sensory dimension, in the form of a "rub & sniff" effect, which provides the fresh aroma of the Christmas pine when the coin is rubbed.


Niue 2010 $2 Twelve Days Of Christmas Silver Proof Collection

One of two collections offered by ECI to celebrate Christmas 2010, this stunning set of silver coins has been released to honour the 12 days of Christmas in style. Beautifully crafted and struck to exact Proof quality, this collection of 12 silver coins celebrates the twelve days of merrymaking from the day after Christmas to the Feast of the Epiphany, on January the 6th. The song that is dedicated to the 12 days is amongst the most popular Christmas songs ever released! The collection is housed in a a lavish timber presentation case, making this a joyous, elegant celebration of a key element of Christmas tradition. Please Note: This product is now Sold Out


Liberia 2010 $2 Christmas 1/2oz Silver Proof Collection

Lastly, but by no means least, comes this uniquely Christmas numismatic celebration from Liberia. Featuring six beautifully struck silver coins, enhanced with vibrant colours, each with a different Festive Season theme. With designs such as the Little Drummer Boy, The Nutcracker, Santa on his Sleigh and the Bells of Christmas, amongst others, the coins are struck to immaculate Proof quality and housed within a stunning Christmas tree case that actually lights up at the press of a button! Superb innovation and eye-catching presentation, this fantastic collection will make a perfect gift for any lover of Christmas and the Festive Season.

History of the Crusades Commemorated In Antiqued Silver Coin Series

A new and captivating series of silver coins has recently been completed that focuses on the tremendous historical significance of the first four religious military campaigns to conquer the Holy Land of Jerusalem, known as the Crusades.

The first four crusades occurred between 1095 and 1204 and were sanctioned by the Roman Catholic Church and the Pope of the time to reclaim the Holy Land of Jerusalem from Muslim occupation and restore it to Christian rule. The Crusades had far-reaching political, economic, and social impacts, some of which have lasted into contemporary times. Because of internal conflicts among Christian kingdoms and political powers, some of the crusade expeditions were diverted from their original aim. A brief summary of each of the first four crusades is as follows:


Cook Islands 2009 $5 History of the Crusades Godfrey of Bouillon Silver BU

The First Crusade: 1095-1099...In March 1095 Byzantine Emperor Alexius I called for help defending his empire against the Seljuk Turks. Later that year Pope Urban II called upon all Christians to join a war against the Turks, promising those who died in the endeavor would receive immediate remission of their sins. Following abortive crusades in early 1096, the official crusader armies set off from France and Italy on the papally ordained date of 15 August 1096. The lengthy Siege of Antioch began in October 1097 and endured until June of 1098, with the crusaders breaching the city walls and massacring the Muslim inhabitants. A Muslim relief army then beseiged the victorious crusaders, however the crusaders defeated this army but not without suffering many casualties. They finally reaching the walls of Jerusalem on 7 June 1099 with only a fraction of their original forces.

The Jews and Muslims fought together to defend Jerusalem against the invading Franks. They were unsuccessful though and on 15 July 1099 the crusaders entered the city. After gaining control of Jerusalem the Crusaders created four Crusader states: the Kingdom of Jerusalem, the County of Edessa, the Principality of Antioch and the County of Tripoli. Initially, Muslims did very little about the Crusader states due to internal conflicts. Eventually, the Muslims began to reunite under the leadership of Imad al-Din Zangi. He began by re-taking Edessa in 1144. It was the first city to fall to the Crusaders, and became the first to be recaptured by the Muslims. This led the Pope to call for a second Crusade.


Cook Islands 2010 $1 History of the Crusades Louis VII of France Silver BU

The Second Crusade: 1147-1149...French and South German armies, under the Kings Louis VII and Conrad III respectively, marched to Jerusalem in 1147 but failed to win any major victories, launching a failed pre-emptive siege of Damascus. On the other side of the Mediterranean, however, the Second Crusade met with great success as a group of Northern European Crusaders stopped in Portugal, allied with the Portuguese King, Afonso I of Portugal, and retook Lisbon from the Muslims in 1147. In the Holy Land by 1150, both the kings of France and Germany had returned to their countries without any result.


Cook Islands 2010 $5 History of the Crusades Richard the Lionheart Silver BU

The Third Crusade: 1187-1192...In 1187, Saladin, Sultan of Egypt, conquered Jerusalem after nearly a century under Christian rule. Pope Gregory VIII called for a crusade, which was led by several of Europe's most important leaders: Philip II of France, Richard I of England (aka Richard the Lionheart), and Frederick I, Holy Roman Emperor. Frederick drowned in Cilicia in 1190, leaving an unstable alliance between the English and the French. After a long siege, Richard the Lionheart recaptured the city of Acre and took the entire Muslim soldier garrison under captivity, which was executed after a series of failed negotiations. The Crusader army headed south along the coast of the Mediterranean Sea. They defeated the Muslims near Arsuf, recaptured the port city of Jaffa, and were in sight of Jerusalem. However, Richard did not believe he would be able to hold Jerusalem once it was captured, as the majority of Crusaders would then return to Europe, and the crusade ended without the taking of Jerusalem.


Cook Islands 2010 $5 History of the Crusades Henricus Dandulus Silver BU

The Fourth Crusade: 1202-1204...The Fourth Crusade was initiated in 1202 by Pope Innocent III, with the intention of invading the Holy Land through Egypt. Because the Crusaders lacked the funds to pay for the fleet and provisions that they had contracted from the Venetians, Doge Henricus Dandulus enlisted the crusaders to restore the Christian city of Zara (Zadar) to obedience. Because they subsequently lacked provisions and time on their vessel lease, the leaders decided to go to Constantinople, where they attempted to place a Byzantine exile on the throne. After a series of misunderstandings and outbreaks of violence, the Crusaders sacked the city in 1204, and established the so-called Latin Empire and a series of other Crusader states throughout the territories of the Greek Byzantine Empire. This is often seen as the final breaking point of the Great Schism between the Eastern Orthodox Church and (Western) Roman Catholic Church.

Each of the four antiqued silver coins released in the History of the Crusades series are struck from 25 grams of sterling silver on a crown-sized flan to brilliant uncirculated quality. The coins are then treated with a special oxidation process that gives them the appearance of being antique, fitting for a set of coins focused on historical times. Each coin is encapsulated and supplied with a Certificate of Authenticity confirming the exclusive world-wide mintage of just 1000 coins struck for each Crusade.

Official COLT® Authorised Commemorative Silver Coin Honours The M-16 Rifle

Created by the New Zealand Mint with the express authorisation of Colt®, this eye-catching commemorative celebrates the iconic M-16 rifle used by the US military for nearly 50 years.


USA 2010 $5 Colt M16 1oz Silver Proof

The M16 is the United States military designation for the AR-15 rifle. Colt purchased the rights to the AR-15 from ArmaLite and currently uses that designation only for semi-automatic versions of the rifle. The M16 is a lightweight, 5.56 mm, air-cooled, gas-operated, magazine-fed assault rifle, with a rotating bolt, actuated by direct impingement gas operation. The rifle is made of steel, 7075 aluminum alloy, composite plastics and polymer materials. The U.S. Air Force's rifle, the M16, and the United States Marine Corps and Army rifle, the XM16E1, were the first versions of the M16 rifle fielded, back in 1961. Soon, the U.S. Army standardized the XM16E1 as the M16A1 rifle, an M16 with a forward assist feature requested by the Army. All of the early versions were chambered to fire the M193/M196 cartridge in the semi-automatic and the automatic firing modes. This occurred in the early 1960s, with the Army issuing it in late 1964.

Struck to a limited mintage of just 20,000 silver coins worldwide, the Colt® M-16 Commemorative features a composite design on the reverse, showing the United States flag, which have been enhanced with colour using the New Zealand Mint's pad printing technology. Below is the image of the M-16 Caliber 5.56 mm rifle, along with the official Colt® logo. To the right are a set of stars and the Rampant Colt® design taken from the Colt family crest. On the obverse is the iconic American Eagle, together with the year of issue and face value.

Each silver coin is struck from 31.10 grams (1 ounce) of 99.99% fine silver on a 40.00mm flan to high quality Proof standards. Adding value and appeal to an already stunning release, the coin is supplied in a unique, "magazine clip" presentation case, with full-colour outer box, and accompanied by a Certificate of Authenticity.

New Silver Coin Released In "How Man Conquered The Skies" Proof Series

The Mint of Poland (Mennica Polska) has just released the second silver coin in the captivating series known as "How Man Conquered The Skies". Coming after the innaugural release, which was dedicated to the Ancient Greek tragedy of Icarus, this latest issue pays tribute to those innovative French engineers of flight, the Montgolfier Brothers, and the first manned, untethered balloon voyage.


Niue 2010 $1 Balloon Silver Proof

The hot air balloon is the oldest successful human-carrying flight technology and it was on Nov 21, 1783, in Paris, France, that the first untethered manned flight was made by Jean-François Pilâtre de Rozier and François Laurent d'Arlandes. The balloon they rode that day was created by Joseph-Michel Montgolfier and Jacques-Étienne Montgolfier. For their acheivement their father Pierre was elevated to the nobility and the hereditary appellation of de Montgolfier by King Louis XVI of France.

From Wikipedia:

Unmanned hot air balloons are popular in Chinese history. Zhuge Liang of the Shu Han kingdom, in the Three Kingdoms era (220–80 AD) used airborne lanterns for military signaling. These lanterns are known as Kongming lanterns. There is also some speculation, from a demonstration led by British modern hot air balloonist Julian Nott in the late 1970s and again in 2003, that hot air balloons could have been used by people of the Nazca culture of Peru some 1500 to 2000 years ago, as a tool for designing the famous Nazca ground figures and lines. The first documented balloon flight in Europe was demonstrated by Bartolomeu de Gusmão. On August 8, 1709, in Lisbon, he managed to lift a balloon full of hot air about 4.5 meters in front of King John V and the Portuguese court.

The first clearly recorded instance of a balloon carrying passengers used hot air to generate buoyancy and was built by the brothers Joseph-Michel and Jacques-Etienne Montgolfier in Annonay, France. After experimenting with unmanned balloons and flights with animals, the first tethered balloon flight with humans on board took place on October 15, 1783. It is fitting that Etienne Montgolfier was the first human to lift off the earth, making at least one tethered flight from the yard of the Reveillon workshop in the Faubourg Saint-Antoine. It was most likely on October 15, 1783. A little while later on that same day, Pilatre de Rozier became the second to ascend into the air, to an altitude of 80 feet, which was the length of the tether. The first free flight with human passengers took place on November 21, 1783. King Louis XVI had originally decreed that condemned criminals would be the first pilots, but de Rozier, along with Marquis François d'Arlandes, successfully petitioned for the honor. The first military use of a hot air balloon happened during the battle of Fleurus where the French used the balloon l'Entreprenant as an observation post.

Featured on the reverse of this unique, rectangular-shapped silver coin, is a depiction of the first ever manned, untethered flight in a hot air balloon, over the fields of Paris. In the foreground are the portraits of the Montgolfier Brothers, with their name inscribed between them. The obverse carries the common design for the "How Man Conquered The Skies" silver coin series; a collection of various modes of flight together with the effigy of Queen Elizabeth II. Inscribed on this side is the name of the series, the country and year of issue and coin denomination. Each coin is struck from 28.28 grams of 92.5% sterling silver on a rectangular, 28mm x 40mm flan to the Mint of Poland strict Proof quality standards.

Each coin is accompanied by an official Certificate of Authenticity confirming the exclusive world-wide mintage of just 6000 silver coins struck.

The Mint of Poland Release New "Oddities of Nature" Silver Coin Depicting Venus Flytrap

Mennica Polska (The Mint of Poland) have recently issued a second silver coin as part of their "Oddities of Nature" proof coin series. This latest issue pays tribute to the carnivorous Venus Flytrap.


Niue 2010 $1 Oddities Of Nature Venus Flytrap Silver Proof

This is the second coin released in the already popular "Oddities of Nature" silver coin series, coming after the release earlier in the year of the 2010 $1 Oddities Of Nature Pronghorn Silver Proof. This latest release, struck to the same 40mm x 40mm dimensions from 28 grams of 92.5% sterling silver as the Pronghorn coin, is dedicated to the curious Venus Flytrap. One of only a handful of carnivorous plants on Earth, the Venus Flytrap (Dionaea muscipula) usually feeds on insects and spiders, but has been known to devour small frogs who make the mistake of venturing through the Flytrap's open jaws. The Venus Flytrap has a trapping structure that is formed by each of the plant's jaw-like leaves, and is triggered by tiny hairs on their inner surfaces. If an insect or spider crawling along the leaves makes contact with two of the hairs within a 20 second period the trap will close. The reason for this "two hair" method is to safeguard against a waste of energy in trapping objects with no nutritional value. The plant's common name refers to Venus, the Roman goddess of love, whereas the genus name refers to Dione. Dionaea is a monotypic genus closely related to the waterwheel plant and sundews.

Featured on the reverse of this square silver coin is the Venus Flytrap, with several of it's jaws shown open and waiting for food. Enhancing the design is the inclusion of selective colouring for one of the leaves, while the botanical name, Dionaea muscipula, is inscribed at the bottom. On the obverse is the effigy of Queen Elizabeth II. Framing this central image are various types of foliage as well as the country and year of issue, and coin denomination.

"Out Of This World" HAH 280 Meteorite Antiqued Silver Coin Released

Issued by Coin Invest Trust, who has brought us such innovative and highly sought-after collector coins as the Tiffany Art Glass 2oz Silver Coin Series, the 2010 $5 Barack Obama & Martin Luther King Silver Coin Pair and 2009 $1 Lucky Star Gold Coin, this uniquely eye-catching antiqued silver coin has been struck in honour of the HAH 280 Meteorite - thought to be one of the sources of life on Earth.


Cook Islands 2010 $5 HAH 280 Meteorite Antique Silver Coin

Discovered by a meteorite hunter in 2000 in Jabal al Gharb in the Hammadah al Hamra region in Libya, Hammadah al Hamra 280 (HAH 280 - the 280 stands for the number of catalogued meteorites found in this area) is a carbonaceous chondrite and is classified in the very rare CK4 group. Meteorites in the CK group are named for Karoonda, a meteorite that fell in Australia in 1930. There are only about 20 different CK members known to have fallen to earth, in places such as Africa and Antarctica. Up to 220 amino acids (the basis on which proteins are formed) exist in these amazing minerals and it is from this that the key to life on this earth is believed to originate.

Adding value to this already superb release is the inclusion of an actual original fragment taken from the HAH 280 meteorite, embedded in the reverse side of the coin! The coin celebrates the 10th anniversary of this historic find, and while it is unknown exactly when it fell to Earth, dating suggests that the HAH 280 meteorite is around 700 million years older than our already 4.5 billion year old solar system. Forming a truly unique collector item, there is only known to be 30 kilograms of HAH 280 meteorite in existence, making this a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity!

Featured on the reverse is a design depicting a primordial solar nebula, a stunning phenomenon similar to that of where the HAH 280 Meteorite is believed to have originated. Enhanced with dazzling, electric colours, this central design is framed by a silver struck depiction of meteorites in space and the meteorite fragment embedded in the top left. Around the rim of the coin is inscribed "THE HAH 280 METEORITE" at top, and "CHALLENGE OF TIME - 2010 MINUS 5,200,000,000 YEARS" AT BOTTOM. The obverse carries the effigy of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, with country of issue and face value inscribed around the rim.

Each 2010 $5 HAH 280 Meteorite Antique Silver Coin has been issued by the authority of the Cook Islands and consists of 25 grams of 92.5% sterling silver across a 38.61mm flan. Only 2,500 of these coins, struck in Brilliant Uncirculated quality, have been released world-wide, and following on from swift mint sell-outs of both the 2009 $5 Mars Copper Plated Antiqued Silver Coin and 2009 $5 Fly Me To The Moon Silver Coin, it was no surprise that this coin also sold out at Coin Invest Trust at rapid speed.



The 2010 $5 HAH 280 Meteorite Antique Silver Coin is encapsulated and presented in a beautifully designed tin.

Austrian Mint Set To Issue Third Gold Coin In "Crowns Of The Habsburg Empire" Series

November 10, 2010: The Austrian Mint are set to release the third coin in their impressive five-coin series of Gold Proof issues dedicated to the Crowns of the Habsburg Empire. The series, started in 2008 and concluding in 2012, has already seen coins issued for Crown of the Holy Roman Empire, and Archducal Crown of Austria. This year sees the famous St Stephen's Crown of the Kingdom of Hungary immortalised in the world's favorite precious metal.


Austria 2010 50€ The Crown Of St Stephen Gold Proof

Stephen (969/975 – 1038) was the first Christian King of Hungary. He was responsible for converting the kingdom to Christianity, sometimes even through force. Around the year 1000 his ambassadors approached Pope Sylvester II in Rome for the papal blessing and a crown for Stephen’s pending coronation on January 1, 1001. The pope acquiesced, sending Stephen a crown and the title of “apostolic majesty” since his kingship had been confirmed by the Apostolic See.

It is fairly certain that nothing remains of this original papal crown. The present well-known crown has been put together from two parts. The lower circular crown (the “Greek crown”) was a gift from the Byzantine emperor, Michael Ducas VII (1071-1078), to King Geza I of Hungary (1074-1077). Both monarchs are depicted in the enamel panels that decorate the coronet. The so-called “Latin crown” is formed by the two intersecting arches of the present crown. They too are decorated with enamel panels depicting Christ and the apostles. The fact that four of the twelve apostles are missing is a clear indication that the arches were shortened to fit the crown. They may have been part of a book of the gospels given to St. Stephen, perhaps by the western emperor, Otto III.

For Hungary the crown is a mystical relic, a source of legitimacy. Possession of the crown confers an aura of legality on the government. The king could not be crowned with any other crown. (In 1741 Maria Theresa was crowned with St. Stephen’s crown as “King” despite her sex.) During the revolution of 1848/49 the crown was buried to prevent it falling into the hands of the Austrian emperor. It was later recovered and Franz Joseph was crowned with it in 1867 in Budapest. The last Hungarian coronation was that of the Emperor Karl in December 1916.

At the end of World War II the Hungarian crown was carefully carried westward and hidden in Austria to prevent it falling into the hands of the communists. For sometime thereafter it was held in Wiesbaden Germany, in the American sector and later transferred to the vaults of Fort Knox. It was not taken as a spoil of war but rather for safekeeping. America always intended to return the crown to Hungary. President Jimmy Carter decided to return it to the people of Hungary in 1978. Today it is displayed in state in the parliament building in Budapest, with its own guard of honour.

The reverse shows Empress Maria Theresa on horseback following her coronation as “King” in 1741 in Bratislava. The king (or in this case the Empress) was required to ride up the Royal Hill in full coronation regalia and at the top swing the sword to all four points of the compass, pledging to defend the borders of the Kingdom of St. Stephen. In the background is the castle of Bratislava located on the banks of the Danube River.

The new gold coin with a face value of 100 Euro portrays the Holy Crown of St. Stephen on the obverse side. The crown detail displays some of the nineteen enamelled panels, which decorate the crown along with some semi precious stones and pearls. Also noted in the left half of the coin design are the four pendants that hang from the crown. The coin depicts the crown resting on a piece of silk fabric draped over an ornate stand. Also located on this side of the coin is the country of issue “Republik Oesterreich” Republic of Austria, and the face value of 100 euros. Inside the lower right portion of the rim is the word “Stephanskrone”, St. Stephan’s crown.

The new 100 Euro gold coin designed by the Mint’s chief engraver Thomas Pesendorfer is struck in proof quality (reverse frosting) with a maximum mintage of 30,000 pieces. The coin has a diameter of 30 mm., contains 16 grams of gold and is .986 fine. Each coin is encapsulated and comes in a box with a numbered certificate of authenticity. A unique lapel pin plated with gold and bearing a miniature version of the Crown of St. Stephen’s also accompanies the gold coin.

The Crowns Of The Habsburg Empire Collection Case is also available separately.

Innovative Silver Coins Celebrate 2011 Chinese Lunar Year of the Rabbit

Struck at The Mint of Finland and released by the authority of the Fijian government as legal tender, these eye-catching silver coins have been struck in uniquely innovative ways to celebrate 2011 as the Chinese Lunar Year of the Rabbit. They are part of a series of coins issued for the Chinese Zodiac, which started in 2010 with the Year of the Tiger coins.


Fiji 2011 $1 Filigree Lunar Rabbit Silver Proof

Due for release in late November 2010 is the world's first Silver Coin created using the fine jewellers art known as filigree. Entitled "Cabbage Garden Rabbit", the crown-sized coin is struck from 20.5 grams of 99.9% fine silver. It features at its centre a stylised Rabbit design created with the filigree technique using twisted threads of silver. This technique, used in a wide variety of cultures since Ancient times to create objects of beauty, gives a lacey appearance to the Rabbit motif. Framing the central design on the reverse are cabbage leaves and the inscription for the Year of the Rabbit, while on the obverse is the effigy of Queen Elizabeth, the country and year of issue and the nominal face value.

The Cabbage Garden Rabbit coin was designed by Hannu Veijalainen of The Mint of Finland and has been struck to the highest quality Proof standards. Each Fiji 2011 $1 Filigree Lunar Rabbit Silver Proof is presented in an official jewel case with Certificate of Authenticity confirming the exclusive worldwide mintage of just 6000 silver coins!

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Released at the same time as the Cabbage Garden Rabbit above is another highly innovative silver coin issue to celebrate the Year of the Rabbit. Incorporating a well-known aspect of Taoism, a part of Chinese Philosophy, The Mint of Finland have produced this eye-catching "Yin and Yang" silver coin enhanced with colour.


Fiji 2011 $1 Yin & Yang Lunar Rabbit Silver Proof Pair

Taking the fundamentals of Yin and Yang; how seemingly polar or contrary forces are interconnected in the natural world, this beautiful pair of coins celebrate the opposing Summer and Winter seasons of the Year of the Rabbit. Each coin is struck from 1 ounce (31.10 grams) of 99.9% fine silver measuring 29.11mm x 46.73mm and each shaped into half of the Yin and Yang symbol, so that when placed together the pair of coins make a circle resembling one single coin.

On the reverse of the Summer coin is a full-colour image of a Rabbit in warm tones, leaping through a field with a backdrop of flowers. The Winter Rabbit can be seen running through the snow, a variety of different-shaped snowflakes behind it. The obverses of each coin also reflect the Summer and Winter themes respectively, and carry the effigy of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, along with the country and year of issue, coin weight, purity and composition, and legal tender denomination.

This beautiful pair of silver coins was designed by Mint of Finland sculptor Erkki Vainio, and have been struck to the exact standard of proof quality by the Mint. The Fiji 2011 $1 Yin & Yang Lunar Rabbit Silver Proof Pair are encased in a single circular capsule and presented in an official jewel case, accompanied by a Certificate of Authenticity which confirms the mintage of just 10,000 sets issued worldwide.

Austrian Mint Release Charlemagne Silver Coin As Part Of Tales & Legends Series

October 13, 2010: The Austrian Mint have announced the next silver coin to be issued in their popular series, "Tales and Legends of Austria", will be devoted to Charlemagne in the Untersberg.


Austria 2010 10€ Charlemagne In The Untersberg Silver Proof

This is the fourth issue in the silver series that has captivated collectors across the globe. As with previous releases in the series, this latest coin will be available in both high quality Proof as well as Brilliant Uncirculated quality. This stunning precious metal issue recalls the legends from the Middle Ages of Charlemagne and his army, sleeping deep beneath a mountain near Salzburg and awaiting the need to be called back into active life.

This tale is a common one from the Middle Ages and familiar in some form or other in most cultural circles. A strong king or hero does not die, but merely sleeps in secret until his people need him. Similar tales were woven around the figure of the British King Arthur, who is supposed to slumber on the Isle of Avalon until he is once again needed to save Britain.

Struck as a 10 euro commemorative from 16 grams of 92.5% sterling silver on a 32mm flan, the Charlemagne coin has a total worldwide mintage of 40,000 for the proof and 30,000 for the BU.

The obverse of the coin depicts a young shepherd sitting in a lush mountain meadow with his flute being spoken to by a magical gnome. In the background one can see several ravens soaring in the sky above the meadow. This side of the coin also has the country of issue “Republik Oesterreich” Republic of Austria as well as the face value. In the top center design field depicted on a scroll is the name “Untersberg” which is the name of the mountain in which this tale occurred.

The reverse of the coin depicts Charlemagne sleeping inside the mountain, along with one of his foot soldiers, depicted in the background, standing asleep in full armour. Beside them are the gnome, or dwarf, and the young shepherd boy. Also in the background of the design are stalactites made of silver and covered with jewels, just above the swooping grand staircase.


Sure to continue the success of the "Tales and Legends" series, which has proved to be very popular on ECI, this latest release is presented in an official case for the proof, or a specifically designed coin card for the brilliant uncirculated edition. Also available is a stunning Tales and Legends Collection Album that has been designed to hold all 6 individual releases within an antique book-style case.

Euro Collections International will begin offering the Charlemagne coin in Proof and BU from it's release date on October 13. Be sure to follow us on Twitter, Facebook, or sign up for our weekly newsletter to receive notification of when this exciting new silver coin is available.

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Berlin Mint Issues Silver Coins Celebrating 20th Anniversary of German Unity

September 2, 2010: The Berlin Mint, one of Germany's 5 working mints, has released their special commemorative 10 euro silver coins for 2010 - marking the 20th anniversary of the final stages of Germany's Reunification process, known as German Unity.


Germany 2010 10€ 20th Anniversary of German Unity Silver Proof

German reunification was the process in which the German Democratic Republic (East Germany) and Berlin, reunited into a single city, joined the Federal Republic of Germany (West Germany). The start of this process is commonly referred by Germans as die Wende (The Turning Point), while the end of the unification process is officially referred to as the German unity (German: Deutsche Einheit), celebrated on 3 October (German Unity Day).

The East German regime started to falter in May 1989, when removal of Hungary's border fence opened a hole in the Iron Curtain. It caused an exodus of thousands of East Germans fleeing to West Germany and Austria via Hungary. The Peaceful Revolution, a series of protests by East Germans, led to the GDR's first free elections on 18 March 1990, and to the negotiations between the GDR and FRG that culminated in a Unification Treaty, whilst negotiations between the GDR and FRG and the four occupying powers produced the so-called "Two Plus Four Treaty" (Treaty on the Final Settlement with Respect to Germany) granting full sovereignty to a unified German state, whose two halves had previously still been bound by a number of limitations stemming from their post-WWII status as occupied regions. The united Germany remained a member of the European Community (later the European Union) and of NATO.

This is the fourth silver commemorative released from Germany in 2010, coming after the Composer Robert Schumann (Hamburg), Computer pioneer Konrad Kuse (Karlsruhe) and 300th Anniversary of German Porcelain (Stuttgart) silver coins, and was struck at the Berlin Mint (A). As with the other earlier releases, and in fact all German silver 10 euro commemoratives, each coin is struck from 18.00 grams of 92.5% sterling silver on a 32.50mm flan, either in high proof (200,000 mintage) or brilliant uncirculated (2,300,000 mintage) quality.


Germany 2010 10€ 20th Anniversary of German Unity Silver BU

On the reverse is shown a map of the unified German state with the inscription "WIN SIND EIN VOLK" (We Are The People). Around the rim is the anniversary inscription of "20 Years Germany Unity". The obverse carries the familiar Eagle State Emblem, and as with previous issues it has been stylied to match the reverse design. Around the rim on this side is the year and country of issue, the nominal face value and "A" mintmark denoting the coin was struck at Berlin.

The silver proof coin is encapsulated while the brilliant uncirculated version is supplied in a protective plastic flip.

Polish Mint Issues 90th Anniversary of Battle of Warsaw Silver Coin

August 12, 2010: The Mint of Poland (Mennica Polska) in conjunction with the National Bank of Poland, has issued this eye-catching and poignant commemorative 20 zloty silver coin to mark the 90th anniversary of the famous Battle of Warsaw.


Poland 2010 20Zl Battle Of Warsaw Silver Proof

One of few full colour coins produced by the Mint of Poland, featuring a blazing interpretation of the 1920 Battle of Warsaw, this sensational new 38.61mm 28.28g sterling silver Proof is expected to be one of the hottest European issues of 2010.

Whilst headlined by the gripping "3-dimensional" full-colour design, this coin is just as notable for the superb portrait of Polish Commander-in-Chief and Head of State, Józef Pilsudski, younger brother of leading anthropologist Bronislaw Pilsudski. The mastermind behind Poland’s stunning victory in the Battle of Warsaw during the Polish-Soviet War, Pilsudski’s triumph sparked a revival that saved Polish independence – and arguably saved Western Europe from the Bolsheviks.

Sure to be highly sought after worldwide, with the mintage set at 50,000 to accommodate widespread demand, this vivid 90th anniversary tribute to the Battle of Warsaw is a military commemorative of great poignancy and great quality.

Each silver coin is encapsulated and accompanied by a Certificate of Authenticity.

Perth Mint September Releases!

September 7, 2010: The Perth Mint has released their September treasure trove of numismatic goodies to an eager collector community. Issued today are a selection of stunning new release silver coins continuing popular series', a sure-to-be highly sought after proof collection and the hotly anticipated 2011 bullion coins in gold and silver.


Tuvalu 2010 Great Warriors Knight 1oz Silver Proof

First cab of the rank is the latest Perth Mint struck issue in the impressive "Great Warriors" silver coin series. Released as a four coin series throughout the year, the "Knight" coin is the 3rd in the series and features a strong image of a Middle Ages Knight decked out in full gear and weaponry. A well-crafted and eye-catching piece that follows the high proof standards of the previous two issues, the Legionary and Viking silver coins. Each coin is struck from 31.10 grams (1 ounce) of 99.9% fine silver on a 40.60mm flan - and is presented in an official Perth Mint jewel case with series-themed outer box, accompanied by a numbered Certificate of Authenticity confirming the tiny worldwide mintage of just 5000 coins!

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Tuvalu 2010 $1 Great Composers Gustav Mahler 1oz Silver Proof

Also released this month as part of a popular series is the Gustav Mahler silver proof. This coin will be music to the ears of those already enjoying the stylish "Great Composers" precious metal program, with the Perth Mint issuing this 4th coin in the series. Released to mark the 150th anniversary of the death of Mahler, the creator of a number of brilliant compositions, the design of this coin follows that of the previous Felix Mendelssohn, Robert Schumann and Frederic Chopin issues, with a detailed portraiture set against of backdrop of each composer's respective works. Sure to mirror the popularity of it's predecessors, the Gustav Mahler coin is struck from 31.10 grams (1 ounce) of 99.9% fine silver on a 40.60mm flan - and is presented in an official Perth Mint jewel case and outer box, accompanied by a numbered Certificate of Authenticity. A stunning tribute to a renowned composer.

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Sure to get tongues wagging from coin collector and war aficionado alike, the Perth Mint have released this stunning 5-coin set of silver proof issues dedicated to tanks of World War II.


Tuvalu 2010 $1 Tanks of WWII 1oz Silver Proof Collection

Introduced in rudimentary form in World War I, and famously dismissed as having ‘very limited military value’ by Britain’s Lord Kitchener, the role of the tank was crucial to the course of World War II. Hitler’s blitzkrieg of Western Europe at the start of the war awakened the world to the awesome potential of this menacing metallic monolith, and, considered essential for tactical and strategic success, the tank was utilised by many nations during WWII. This collection of silver coins, struck to the highest proof quality by the Perth Mint, is dedicated to the 'Big Guns' of World War II and features the USA's M4 Sherman, Germany's PzKpfw Vi Tiger 1, Russia's T-34, Britain's A22 Churchill and Japan's Type 97 Chi-Ha. Each coin has it's respective tank superbly struck in 99.9% silver on a 40.60mm flan, with a backdrop enhancing the country's symbolic emblem in striking colour.

The entire set of 5 coins is presented in an imaginative, iron-grey presentation case within an army-green camoflag outer box, accompanied by a numbered Certificate of Authenticity confirming the worldwide mintage of a poultry 1500 sets!

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Lastly, and certainly not least, the Perth Mint has issued their bullion coinage for 2011! Very exciting for investment collectors and those intrigued by the popular Kookaburra, Kangaroo and Koala series', as well as the Lunar Year precious metal issues. As prices are determined by the daily silver rate we recommend giving ECI a call on our toll-free number (1-877-897-7696) to get the price for the day. Available right now are:

2011 $30 Kookaburra Kilo Silver Specimen
2011 $10 Kookaburra 10oz Silver Specimen
2011 $1 Kookaburra 1oz Silver Specimen

2011 $100 Kangaroo 1oz Gold Specimen
2011 $50 Kangaroo 1/2oz Gold Specimen
2011 $25 Kangaroo 1/4oz Gold Specimen
2011 $15 Kangaroo 1/10oz Gold Specimen

2011 $2 Lunar Rabbit 2oz Silver Specimen
2011 $1 Lunar Rabbit 1oz Silver Specimen
2011 50c Lunar Rabbit 1/2oz Silver Specimen

2011 $100 Lunar Rabbit 1oz Silver Specimen
2011 $25 Lunar Rabbit 1/4oz Gold Specimen
2011 $15 Lunar Rabbit 1/10oz Gold Specimen

The Lunar Rabbit silver coins are also available in high quality proof condition and will be available on the Euro Collections website in a couple of weeks when stocks arrive. Keep an eye out on our newsletter, Twitter or Facebook for announcements of these new releases.

Tasmanian Tiger Kicks Off New "Extinct And Endangered" Series of Silver Coins

The perfect subject for a full-colour coin, this outstanding new Perth Mint-struck precious metal Proof forms a dramatic tribute to one of Australia’s most distinctive, most mysterious, and most famous creatures – the extinct Tasmanian Tiger.


Tuvalu 2011 $1 Tasmanian Tiger 1oz Silver Proof

With a large, wolf-like head, tiger-like striped coat and wombat like backwards-facing pouch, the Thylacinus cynocephalus (Tasmanian Tiger) is among the most intriguing of Australia’s great variety of exotic native fauna. Rivalling in reputation such wonders of nature as the platypus, kangaroo and koala, this unusual creature virtually disappeared from the Australian mainland around 2,000 to 3,000 years ago. At the time of European Settlement, it was found in significant numbers only in Tasmania. Hunting, disease and habitat destruction all had a major impact on the Tassie Tiger population, and the last known thylacine died in the Hobart Zoo in 1936.

The source of constant fascination in the 75 years since the demise of the last known thylacine’ – with a large number of unconfirmed sightings of this legendary Aussie creature ensuring ongoing publicity – the highly distinctive appearance of the Tasmanian Tiger has been perfectly captured by The Perth Mint upon this stunning legal tender coin. Crafted to the height of Proof quality from .999 silver and measuring 40.60mm, and then superbly enhanced with full-colour, there is no doubt that the 2011 $1 Tasmanian Tiger 1oz Silver Proof will provoke massive interest across the globe. Indeed, with demand for full-colour Aussie animal coins from The Perth Mint at truly explosive levels, there is every reason to believe that a swift sell-out of the limited mintage of just 5,000 is inevitable.

Set within a stunning birds-eye maple inset lacquered case within a colourful thematic outer box and accompanied by a numbered Certificate of Authenticity. Sure to be as hard-to-find in the future as the Tassie Tiger itself, don’t miss the chance to capture this unique precious metal Proof at the affordable Official Issue Price!

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A unique, instantly recognisable nocturnal marsupial, the thylacine (Thylacinus cynocephalus; Greek for ‘dog-headed pouched one’) is one of Australia’s most remarkable native creatures – and one of the most famous.

Native to Tasmania, the Australian mainland and Papua New Guinea, the modern thylacine emerged around 4 million years ago. Distinguished by a strong striped pattern across its back, hence the name, the Tasmanian Tiger was well known to the indigenous peoples of Australia. Hunted for food, and forced to compete with the dingo, the Tassie Tiger is believed to have been virtually extinct on continental Australia approximately 2,000 years ago. By the time of European Settlement, this distinctive dog-like creature was found almost exclusively in what was then known as Van Diemen’s Land.

The impact of humans was key to the devastation of the Tasmanian Tiger population, with disease, hunting and incursion into natural habitat all having an impact, and, as early as the early 1900s, efforts were being made to save the Tiger from extinction. Alas, it was too little, too late, and the last known Tasmanian Tiger in the wild was killed by a farmer in 1933. Never surviving very long in captivity, and only ever breeding in captivity on one occasion, the last known surviving Tassie Tiger died exactly 75 years ago in the Hobart Zoo in 1936 on September the 7th – the date upon which National Threatened Species Day is celebrated.

Although there have been a huge number of sightings of the Tasmanian Tiger in the three-quarters of a century since, and massive rewards posted for either confirmation of the species’ continued existence or the capture of a live specimen, no satisfactory proof has been provided. The continued speculation, however, combined with the Tiger’s unique beauty and status as a Tasmanian and Australian cultural icon, will ensure that, extinct or not, the Tassie Tiger will never die.

Mint of Poland Issue Romeo And Juliet Silver Coin To Start New Series

Kicking off a series of stunning silver coins struck at the Mint of Poland (Mennica Polska) entitled "Famous Love Stories", this captivating new release is dedicated to the tragic tale of Romeo and Juliet.


2010 $1 Romeo And Juliet Silver Proof

Romeo and Juliet is a Shakespearean drama presenting the tragic love of two young people whose story has become a model for romantic lovers. The play was written between 1591 and 1595 and was inspired heavily from the Italian romantic story "The Tragical History of Romeus and Juliet" (1562) by Arthur Brooke, which had already been retold as "Paradise of Pleasure" (1582) by William Painter.

The play tells the story of Romeo, a member of the Montague family of Verona, and Juliet, the daughter of the rival Capulet family. The Capulets and Montagues are warring families opposed on every front, the patriarchs of each family stubborn in their respective prides. Upon a first look Romeo and Juliet fall in love and are secretly wed by a sympathetic priest, motivated by the ideal that these two young lovers might bring peace to the war between the families. However when Romeo is banished from Verona for a revenge killing, Juliet is forced into an arranged marriage - one she tries to get out of by taking a drug that puts her in a "death-like state" for several hours. Juliet's family, believing her to be dead, lay her to rest in the family crypt. Romeo's servant, Balthazar, sees Juliet within the crypt and tells Romeo that his beloved has died. Overcome with grief, Romeo obtains a vial of poison with the intention of joining his love in the afterlife. He returns to Verona and seals himself in the crypt where Juliet lays, drinking the poison and dying beside her. At that moment Juliet awakes to see Romeo's lifeless body, and succumbing to her own grief takes her life using Romeo's dagger. Both families discover the bodies of their children and swear to overlook their differences from then on.

This beautifully crafted silver proof coin is the first in a series which will also feature tributes to Samson and Delilah and Paris and Helen of Troy, amongst others. The reverse design of this coin features an image of the star cross'd lovers staring lovingly into each others eyes. Around them are traditional renaissance patterns. The obverse, which is common to to the "Famous Love Stories" series, shows a figure of Anteros, Greek God of requited love. The design is inspired by the statue located at Piccadilly Circus in London, which is known as the Angel of Christian Charity. Above is an effigy of Queen Elizabeth II, while inscribed around the bottom rim is the country and year of issue along with the nominal face value of the coin.

Each superb collector coin is struck by the Mint of Poland from 28.28 grams of 92.5% sterling silver on a 38.61mm flan by the authority of the island nation of Niue to exacting proof quality. The coin is encapsulted with a mintage of just 9,000 issues released worldwide.

Perth Mint Struck Silver Coin Celebrates 200th Anniversary of First Australian Horse Race

A pulsating sport, a vibrant industry and an obsession for millions of people across the country, Australian horse racing was founded exactly 200 years ago, when the first official race meeting took place in Sydney. Struck by Australia’s own Perth Mint, this spectacular precious metal Proof forms an exclusive, eye catching tribute to the bicentenary of this major landmark in Australian history.


Tuvalu 2010 $1 First Official Australian Horse Race 1oz Silver Proof

One of many major advances made during the time of Australia’s fifth Governor, Lachlan Macquarie (1810-21), in part aimed at integrating a divided colonial population, Australia’s first official race meeting took place at Hyde Park in October 1810. A significant moment in the life of the infant colony, the meeting drew huge crowds, with the vitality and colour of this gala event captured perfectly upon the 40.60mm frame of the 2010 $1 First Official Australian Horse Race Bicentenary 1oz Silver Proof.

An outstanding addition to any collection, and a brilliant tribute to an event that would have a major impact on the course of Australian history, this unique .999 fine silver coin is extremely exclusive. A release of immensely broad appeal – certain to catch the eye of racing devotees as much as collectors – the mintage of 5,000 is sure to be placed under huge pressure.

The brainchild of Australia’s fifth Governor, Lachlan Macquarie (1810-21), Australia’s first official horse race meeting took place in October 1810 at the new Sydney Racecourse in Hyde Park.

Ever the visionary, Macquarie believed a racecourse would serve to integrate what was then a divided society, with official horse race meetings providing an atmosphere where colonists of all classes – military, convict, emancipist and immigrant – might be encouraged to mix freely. Soon after Hyde Park had been gazetted as a ‘common’ by the Governor, who had dedicated ‘recreation and amusement’, it became the venue for Australia’s first official horse race meeting.

The racecourse was funded by public subscription, and established by the 73rd Regiment – Macquarie’s regiment. Macquarie’s men not only built the track, but the officers of the regiment devised the rules and organised the event, with many of them owning competing horses. Held over three days on the 15th, 17th and 19th of October, 1810, the meeting comprised of a main race on each day – a best-of-three contest over a distance of 2 miles – as well as several minor races. Captain Ritchie won the main race on the first day of Australia’s first official horse race meeting, with a 6-year-old gelding named Chase. Part of what was described as ‘by far the most numerous assemblage of persons ever before collected in the colony’, Governor Macquarie attended all three days of the meet, and the event was dubbed a grand success.

The foundation stone of Australia’s rich history of horse racing – an activity embedded in our national culture – the bicentenary of this landmark event has been rightly recognised with the release of the 2010 $1 First Official Horse Race 1oz Silver Proof.

Extinct?

This teaser confirms what ECI has been hoping for some time - a new coin release, featuring a particular extinct Australian marsupial. We hope to be able to provide more information in the coming days but this is an exciting discovery indeed, one that keen buyers should be on the watch for.

Stay tuned and follow ECI on Twitter or join our Facebook page to be notified the minute this exciting new release makes it's appearance on September 1. High demand is expected.

Austrian Mint Issues Next "Rome On The Danube" Silver Coin

September 8, 2010: The Austrian Mint will be releasing the 2nd in their fresh new series dedicated to various Roman cities along the Danube River. This latest issue, coming after the Virunium coin that started the series, is dedicated to Vindobona - the Roman military camp that grew to become Austria's capital city, Vienna!


Austria 2010 20€ Rome On The Danube Vindobona Silver Proof

The name Vindobona comes from the Celtic words for "blessed" and "base/bottom", and was presumably named for the geological position of the original Celtic settlement. Apart from growing to become the city we now know as Vienna, Vindobona is also noted for being the location of emperor Marcus Aurelius' death in March 180A.D. Remains of the Roman military camp have been found at many sites in the centre of Vienna, with over 3000 stamped bricks, several stone monuments and written sources proving that several legions, cavalry units and marines were stationed in Vindobona.

The obverse of the coin shows Marcus Aurelius on horseback in the legionary fortress of Vindobona. An officer of his imperial guard stands beside him, while another hands the emperor a scroll bearing an important message. In the background one of the double gates of the fort with its twin defensive towers can be seen; perhaps the porta decumana that opened up on the defensive ditch to the south, today’s Graben. The scene is based on an ancient marble relief depicting the Marcomanni Wars. The ragged edge at the top symbolises the border along the River Danube.

The reverse side shows a centurion proudly inspecting the soldiers of his centuria (nominally 100, but in reality 60-80 men) drawn up on the via principalis, the main road of the fortress crossing from east to west. In the background is the porta principalis dextra (the principal right-hand gate). The centurion wears a transverse crest on his helmet, a sign of his rank. The legionaries stand with their rectangular body shields holding the Roman spear or pilum.

This 20 euro coin, with it's intricately detailed designs, is struck to the Austrian Mint's stringent proof specifications, from 18 grams of 90% fine silver. Each silver coin is encapsulated and presented within an official Austrian Mint box, accompanied by an individually numbered Certificate of Authenticity confirming the mintage of only 50,000 coins struck.

The Rome On The Danube Collection Case, with room to house the entire series of coins may be purchased separately.

Perth Mint August Releases!

August 3, 2010 - The Perth Mint have released their new release products for August, containing some exciting issues sure to get the collector palate salivating! The first of these, and sure to generate the biggest demand, is the second in the already hugely popular silver series entitled "Bush Babies".




Australia 2010 50c Bush Baby Sugar Glider 1/2oz Silver Proof

Devoted to the native Sugar Glider, the coin features an adorable depiction of this gliding marsupial as a youngster. The coin is struck from 1 ounce (31.10 grams) of 99.9% fine silver on a 36.60mm flan. A truly wondrous release, designed to inspire a new generation of collectors, the Sugar Glider 50 cent silver coin comes on the hot heels of the Baby Kangaroo (Joey) coin released two months ago and selling out within days. Expectations are therefore high with this one, and with future releases featuring the Dingo pup, baby Bilby and Koala cub, the entire series looks set to be hot property amongst collectors. Each coin is encapsulated and presented in an official Perth Mint jewel case with full-colour outer box, accompanied by an individually numbered Certificate of Authenticity.

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Also part of a hot pursued silver series comes this latest issue in the Famous Naval Battles series! Released as the third coin in the 5-coin series, this latest issue is dedicated to the Battle of Hampton Roads of 1862 - also known as the very first battle between ironclad warships!


Cook Islands 2010 $1 Great Naval Battles Hampton Roads 1oz Silver Proof

The Battle of Hampton Roads occurred as part of the American Civil War (1861-1865), and this stunning coin recalls the encounter between the Confederate ironclad ram, Virginia, and the North's ironclad Union Monitor in 1862. Fighting for several hours, neither ship could land a decisive blow - their armour-plating proving extremely effective - and the course of naval battles was changed forever! Coming after the already sold out "Salamis" battle coin, and the popular "Trafalgar" issue, the Hampton Roads $1 battle coin is similarly struck from 31.10 grams (1 ounce) of 99.9% fine silver on a 40.60mm flan. The design shows an awesome warship struck in silver against a backdrop of iron cladding, with a full-colour design showing the fierce battle in progress enhancing the coin using the Perth Mint's expert colour printing technology. Each coin is also supplied in an official case and outer box, with numbered Certificate attesting to the exclusive mintage of just 5000 coins worldwide.

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Celebrating the tiny world of backyard bugs is the next in the mint's young collectors $1 collection series. After the success of the 2008 Wildlife and 2009 Space collections, this eye-catching series designed to introduce young people to the joys of collecting, sees focus placed on our insect friends, an arena overlooked by many but beautifully captivating on legal tender one dollar issues!


Australia 2010 $1 Young Collectors Backyard Bugs Collection

Featuring 9 separate coins, each featuring a different backyard bug (Redback Spider, Praying Mantis, Ladybird, Grasshopper, Dragonfly, Cicada, Birdwing Butterfly, Bull Ant, Blowfly), the 2010 collection continues the tradition of excellent value-for-money by including an array of high quality extras. These include a comprehensive information booklet, incorporating a Certificate of Authenticity, a range of bug stickers, a ladybird poster and a magnifying glass - perfect for examining these glorious, brilliant uncirculated coins or actual bugs you find in your own backyard! The entire collection is beautifully bound in a brilliantly illustrated presentation album depicting a bugs-eye view of an Australian backyard! A perfect gift for children or grandchildren aspiring to collecting as a hobby!

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Lastly, but certainly not least, comes a truly lasting tribute to Australia's most famous exploring duo, Burke and Wills, and their fateful expedition to cross the outback. Not just content to issue a stunning $1 brilliant uncirculated coin to honour these great pioneers, the Perth Mint has released a philatelic/numismatic cover, known as a PNC, containing the coin as well as a specially designed postage stamp!


Australia 2010 $1 Burke & Wills PNC

Commemorating the 150th anniversary of the duo's ill-fated expedition, this beautifully designed cover - featuring a depiction of the 15,000 strong Melbourne crowd who saw Burke and Wills off in August 1860 - is a symbolic tribute to the pioneering spirit upon which the Australian nation was built. Officially released from Australian Post, this new PNC represents the most affordable was to honour their successful, if ultimately tragic, attempt to cross the Continent. Graced with an official Australia Post 60c stamp and headlined by the unique $1 Australian legal tender coin - not to be issued into general circulation - this historic and eye-catching PNC is well within the reach of all collectors at the mint's Official Issue Price!

New Silver Coin Commemorating Australian Aviator Sir Charles Kingsford Smith

Commemorating the 75th anniversary of the untimely demise of Australia’s greatest aviation pioneer – Sir Charles Kingsford Smith (1897-1935) – this brilliantly designed precious metal Proof has inspired predictably strong demand.


2010 $1 Charles Kingsford Smith 1oz Silver Proof

Whilst interest in this official legal tender issue can be attributed to the iconic status of ‘Smithy’ – a national hero as big as Don Bradman and Phar Lap – the demand is largely due to the outstanding quality of the coin. Uniting one of the most famous portraits of Smithy with a depiction of his plane, the Southern Cross, contrasting beautifully with a fully ‘struck-up’ depiction of the globe, this exclusive release represents a dramatic combination of stunning full-colour and glorious Proof quality.

Commanding the attention of modern coin collectors, as well as aviation buffs, initial demand for the Perth Mint-struck 2010 $1 Kingsford Smith 1oz Silver Proof has soared sky-high. With the mintage restricted to 5,000, now is the time to guarantee supply of this memorable Silver Proof – whilst still available at Official Issue Price.

Mint Of Poland Kick Off Exciting New "Skies" Silver Coin Series

Mennica Polska (Mint of Poland) have begun an exciting new silver series entitled "How Man Conquered the Skies". The unique, rectangular-shaped coins, stuck in the highest quality proof condition, have been released to celebrate the dream of man taking to the skies - and how that dream became a reality! The series kicks off with the tragic tale of Icarus, taken from ancient Greek Mythology.


Niue 2010 $1 Icarus Silver Proof

The myth tells the doomed story of Icarus, who is imprisoned with his father Daedalus on the island of Crete by Kind Minos. Daedalus was a skilled craftsman from Athens who had built the Labyrinth for the King to hold the mighty Minotaur. He and Icarus were exiled to Crete for giving the ball of yarn to Ariadne, the King's daughter, to help Theseus, who was an enemy of Minos, survive the Labyrinth and defeat the Minotaur.

To escape their imprisonment, Daedalus fashion two pairs of wings from wax and feathers, and told his son before they took off not to fly too close to the sun or too close to the sea. In his wanton curiosity and excitement of taking flight, Icarus forgot his father's words and flew towards the sun, where the waxed part of the wings melted and the feathers dropped away. Icarus fell to his death in the sea that now bears his name (Icarian Sea).

Creating a superb design that beautifully captures the mythological tale of Icarus and his wings, the master craftspeople at Mennica Polska have outdone themselves. Honouring this timeless story with a reverse image that features Icarus and his wings, with the nearby sun set as a stylised icon, the Mint has created a truly eye-catching work of art to kick off what is sure to be a popular series of silver coins. Featured on the obverse are various modes of flight along with the title of the series, the effigy of Queen Elizabeth II, and the nominal face value.

Each coin is struck in a 40.00mm x 28.00mm rectangular format, from 28 grams of 92.5% sterling silver, and is supplied in a specially designed capsule, accompanied by a Certificate of Authenticity confirming the exclusive worldwide mintage of just 6000 coins!

Coming Soon! New Silver Coin In Perth Mint "Bush Babies" Series

August 3, 2010: The Perth Mint will be issuing the latest in their already hugely popular "Bush Babies" series next Tuesday! This is only the second issue to be released in the 5-coin silver series but already a stampede of demand is brewing!



The first coin, dedicated to the Joey (Baby Kangaroo) sold out at record speed, with collectors all over the world agreeing that the adorable, well-defined imagery on the reverse, enhanced with vibrant colour using the Perth Mint's expert minting techniques, was a winner!

With the 50c Bush Babies Sugar Glider Silver Proof sure to follow this amazingly successful suit, we are looking forward to presenting this coin to collectors from August 3rd - Next Tuesday! (Australian Time).

To be notified the very minute this coin is released, thereby ensuring you don't miss out, follow our up-to-the-minute product release announcements on Facebook or Twitter

Austrian Mint Issue Glossglockner High Alpine Road 5 Euro Silver Commemorative!

June 16, 2010: The Austrian Mint continues it's high standard series of distinctive commemorative 5 euro coinage with the release of the Grossglockner-High Alpine Road Brilliant Uncirculated Silver anniversary issue.


Austria 2010 5€ 75th Anniversary Grossglockner-Alpine Road Silver BU

The Grossglockner High Alpine road was constructed between 1930 and 1935 as a way of crossing from the province of Salzburg to Carinthia in the south by motorcar, bus, motorbike or even bicycle. Originally thought of as a pipe dream, the road was built over a period of 26 months, with 870,000 cubic meters of earth and rock being moved, 115,750 cubic meters of retaining wall constructed and 67 bridges erected. A total of 3,200 men laboured with the simple tools of the day, completing it all in record time. The road itself was and still remains an engineering marvel, rising to a height of 7,770 feet. It is 30 miles long, has 36 hairpin turns and many more curves, and has 2 tunnels.

On the reverse of the coin is an image of 2 switch-back curves winding up the Grossglockner pass. The car on the left is an Audi Roadster from 1935 while the second car; on the right going up the road is a modern convertible car. The two cars represent the 75 years of motoring on this mountain pass. The roadbed also reflects this span of time as the Mint’s Chief Engraver, Thomas Pesendorfer, chose to include some of the original cobblestones as well as reflect the modern paved sections on this side of the coin. Along the outer edge of the road is a wall made of thousands of bricks and topped with a guardrail. Soaring above the car is an eagle gliding on the updrafts. In the top right quadrant are the words "Grossglockner Hochalpenstrasse" or Grossglockner High Alpine Road, as well as the dates 1935-2010.

The obverse of the distinctive nine-sided coin is the standard 5 euro design, with the denomination encircled by the shields of the nine federal provinces of Austria. In the center is the face value of 5 euros. Mint engraver Helmut Andexlinger designed the reverse. Each 5 euro coin is struck from 8 grams of 80% fine silver on a 28.50mm flan in brilliant uncirculated quality. The coin is presented in an official vacuum-sealed informative (English and German) coin pack.

Introducing The World's First Cannabis Commemorative Coin!

Issued with the authority of the Republic of Benin, the first release in the "Famous Plants and Herbs of the World" series of silver-plated commemorative coins is dedicated to Cannabis Sativa, otherwise known as Marijuana.


Benin 2010 100 Francs Cannabis Sativa Coloured Silver-Plated Proof

Already creating quite a "buzz" across the internet amongst collectors and non-collectors alike, the Cannabis Sativa silver-plated coin is the world's first coin honouring this controversial herb. Cannabis Sativa belongs to the Cannabaceae family of flowering plants, which contains around 170 species grouped in nine to fifteen genera. Of those there are three well-known genera; the aforementioned Cannabis (hemp), Humulus (hops) and Celtis (hackberries).

Cannabis is considered a herb and can be cultivated as hemp, having a wide variety of uses such as paper, textiles, biodegradable plastics, construction, health food, fuel and clothing. Along with these practical applications Cannabis is also cultivated as a recreational or medicinal drug, of which the plant has gained most of it's notoriety.

Featured on the reverse side of this commemorative coin is a design featuring a number of Cannabis leaves, with one prominent leaf at the forefront, enhanced with vibrant green. This central coloured leaf also contains the innovative "rub and smell" feature, giving off the synthesized fragrance of Marijuana when the area is rubbed. This feature is a rarity amongst collector coins, with only a few world coin issues featuring this unique technology available worldwide. The use of "rub and smell" usually lasts for around 40 times before the smell is no longer noticeable.

On the obverse is the coat of arms of the Republic of Benin, the country in West Africa where the coin's legal tender status has been authorised. Benin borders Togo to the west, Nigeria to the east and Burkina Faso and Niger to the north. It currently has a population of around 8,500,000 people within a space of 110,000km2 (Roughly the size of Louisiana which has a population about half that of Benin).

Each coin is made from copper-nickel (cupro-nickel) and then plated with 92.5% sterling silver. It is supplied within a protective plastic capsule and accompanied with a Certificate of Authenticity which confirms the exclusive mintage of just 2,500 coins released worldwide. The coin is currently available to order through Euro Collections International.

Austrian Mint Issues Final Coin In "Celebrated Physicians" Gold Series

May 26, 2010 - The Austrian Mint releases the last in the quality 50 euro gold series entitled "Celebrated Physicians of Austria". The 4-coin series which began in 2007 saw a new issue released each year, with this final coin honouring Baron Clemens von Pirquet.


Austria 2010 50€ Clemens von Pirquet Gold Proof

About Celemens von Pirquet:

Clemens von Pirquet was born in 1874 in Vienna to a family of Austrian nobles with the title of Baron. He contemplated studying theology as well as philosophy before finally becoming a doctor of medicine, specializing in pediatrics. He is best known for his study of bacteriology and immunology. Pirquet introduced a number of progressive reforms in the hospital and nursing procedures. Among other things he established an open-air ward on the roof of the Children's Hospital, for children suffering from tuberculosis, and he required trainee doctors in his clinic to undergo a practical course in nursing.

Dr. Pirquet noted that some patients had more severe reactions to the smallpox vaccination than others. Along with fellow physician Bela Schick they developed the word 'allergy' to describe this hypersensitivity, by using the Greek word “allos” meaning other and “ergon” meaning reaction.

Pirquet was very active in the socio-political arena for the children and was accordingly so respected that he was even considered as a possible candidate for the Austrian presidency in 1928. However, after a life full of service and great medical achievements, Pirquet tragically ended his own life together with that of his beloved but incurably sick wife on February, 28, 1929. Austria and the world had lost a great physician and a wonderfully humane man.

The obverse of the coin, designed by Mint engraver Helmut Andexlinger, shows a head and shoulder portrait of Von Pirquet facing to the left, as well as the Aesculapius, symbol of the profession of medicine. Also included on this side of the coin is the face value of 50 euros, the year of issue 2010 and the country of issue “Republic Oesterreich”(Republic of Austria). On the upper right rim is his name "Clemens von Pirquet", as well as the years of his life 1874-1929.

The reverse of the coin depicts the façade of the Children’s Clinic of the university in Vienna as it was in 1920. In the left foreground is a nurse standing behind a child lying in a hospital bed. In the right cameo Dr. Pirquet is seen making notes while working at his microscope. The words “begruender der Allergielehre”(founder of the study of allergies), are inscribed to the lower left.

The 50-Euro commemorative coin is struck in 986 fine gold, with a maximum worldwide mintage of 50,000 pieces. Each coin contains 10 grams of fine gold and has a diameter of 22 mm. The coin is struck in proof quality so that the background provides a distinctive frosted contrast to the shiny relief. Each coin is encapsulated and comes in a case with an individually numbered certificate of authenticity.

Other issues in the "Celebrated Physicians of Austria" Gold Proof series include:

Theodor Billroth (2009)	Ignaz Semmelweis (2008)
Gerard Van Swieten (2007)