Numismatters - The Official Euro Collections International Blog

The Austrian Mint Issues First in New Gustav Klimt Gold Coin Series

2012-02-02T17:43:00.000-08:00

January 25, 2012 - The Austrian Mint will issue today the first gold coin of a new 5 part gold coin series celebrating one of the leading luminaries of the art nouveau movement, Gustav Klimt, and his primary subject, women. The series commencing this year also marks the 150th anniversary of Klimt’s birth.

Austria 2012 50€ Adele Bloch-Bauer Gold Proof

The obverse of the coin bears a portrait of Klimt based on a photograph by Moriz Naehr from about 1917/1918, framed in a square, that brings to mind the canvas of a painting. The use of the square is also to highlight one of the most common shapes repeatedly used by Klimt in his paintings. In the bottom right corner of the square is Gustav Klimt’s signature based on his signature that he used on his many paintings. To the right of the square is a spiral, much like Klimt used, to ornament the coin. Also on this side appears the country of issue, “Republik Oesterreich” or Republic of Austria, and the face value of 50 euros and year of issue, 2012. The Mint’s chief engraver, Thomas Pesendorfer, engraved the obverse.

The reverse shows a portion of the famous painting of Adele Bloch-Bauer I. The many complex mosaic-like details surround her somewhat sad but serene face. Her beautiful long neck is highlighted with the lovely elaborate choker encircling it. In the bottom left of the design field is the letter “K", the first letter of Klimt’s last name. Mint engraver Herbert Waehner completed the engraving of the reverse. Mr. Waehner found the engraving of this side both easy and difficult at the same time. “One of the key elements of painting is color, and of course this is not present in this coin. Therefore, the very detailed engraving of the miniscule differences in relief heights of the complex mosaic-like ornamentation in the plaster model was very challenging.”

Klimt was born in Austria in 1862 and very early on his artistic gift became evident. He was classically trained, and began his career by painting murals and ceilings in large public buildings. His great love and primary subject, however, was the female form.

Gustav Klimt was one of the founding members of the Vienna Secession, “Ver Sacrum”, art movement that officially existed from 1897 - 1905 – a movement funded by the government that presented young non-conventional artists. Many very well known artists were also members of this group such as Otto Wagner, Koloman Moser, Josef Hoffmann and Egon Schiele, to name but a few.

The last public commission completed by Klimt was for three murals for the University of Vienna, featuring Philosophy, Medicine and Jurisprudence. Done in very much his radical style of thought-provoking eroticism, these paintings, when revealed to the public, generated an outcry that was exceptionally strong. With many people having labelled them “pornographic”, these paintings were never used for their original intent in the Great Hall of the University. Sadly, they were destroyed at the end of the Second World War.

Klimt tended to work from his home, enjoying a relaxed lifestyle wearing robes and sandals, devoted to his art and life style. His life companion was Emilie Floege whom he met in 1890. Klimt’s love of the female form was not exclusive to his art but to the many relationships he enjoyed. He is known to have fathered 14 children. He died in 1918, at the age of 56, from a heart attack.

From about 1885 onward Klimt enjoyed his “Golden Phase”, reflecting his critical success and acclaim, as well as his regular use of gold leaf in his paintings. His fame brought many patrons to him and he was able to be selective about the commissions he accepted. Klimt received the Golden Order of Merit from Emperor Francis Josef I in 1888, for the murals he painted in the Palace Theatre. Klimt’s painting entitled “Philosophy” won gold at the Paris Exhibitions of 1900, and “Death and Life” received first prize at the world exhibition in Rome in 1915. Several of Klimt’s paintings have brought some of the highest prices ever paid for art in the world.

The first coin of the series features one of the paintings from this very successful period. It features a painting of Adele Bloch-Bauer. Adele’s husband, Ferdinand Bloch- Bauer, a wealthy industrialist and great supporter of Klimt, commissioned the painting. Ferdinand’s wife was the only woman Klimt painted twice. Thus, this painting is known as Adele Bloch-Bauer I. Adele married Ferdinand at a young age. The couple remained childless; sadly three pregnancies resulted in either stillbirths or the death of the child soon after birth. Adele was a strong and independent lady who was also a somewhat quiet and dark person who socialized in intellectual circles and eventually met Klimt. She was only 26 the first time that Klimt painted her. The many rumours about their relationship and whether or not it was romantic have never been confirmed or denied. Adele died at the age of 43, and her niece Maria Altmann claims she never saw her laugh but rather that she was always very serious.

The painting of Adele is less risqué than many of his others. Klimt painted the first portrait of Adele in a regal pose with a sad look and luscious red lips. The oil painting also features some of his other trade marks using a lot of gold and silver leaf and the multitude of complex painted mosaics that when viewed together become the body of Adele and her lovely flowing robe. The painting took four years to complete.

The ownership of Adele Bloch-Bauer I was for some time hotly disputed and much wrangling occurred to establish clear title to it. The sole surviving heir, Maria Altmann of Los Angeles, claimed it for many years and finally won ownership of this painting as well as four others by Klimt that were once owned by Bloch-Bauer. Once the courts awarded ownership of the paintings to her – she simply sold all of them for huge sums of money. The painting of Adele Bloch-Bauer I was bought by Ronald Lauder, owner of the Neue Galerie in New York, for a reported $135 million in 2006. This painting is a key cornerstone of the Galerie’s collection. The wish of the childless Bloch-Bauer’s that these paintings should be available to all in public galleries was sadly therefore not possible.

The other coins of the series will continue to illustrate the important women in this art nouveau artist's life. The coins will present his work in a manner similar to an exhibition. As well, each of the coins will have another letter of his name K-L-I-M-T worked into the design – so that once the series is complete his last name will become part of the signature of the 5 coin series.

The new coin is struck in 986 fine gold to a maximum mintage of 30,000 pieces in proof quality only. The diameter of the coin is 22mm and it contains 10 grams of fine gold. Each coin is packed in an attractive box with a numbered certificate of authenticity, which is six pages in length and provides detailed background and technical information about the quality and design of the coin.

A beautiful wooden collection case for the whole series, “Klimt and his Women”, may be purchased separately. It contains a booklet explaining the whole series.

eci The next four coins of the series are: 2013: Expectation from Stoclet Frieze; 2014: Judith II; 2015: Hygieia from the faculty painting Medicine; 2016: The Kiss.

New Silver Coin Marks 50th Anniversary of Australian Involvement in Vietnam

2012-01-19T16:18:00.000-08:00

Representing the nation with great pride, tremendous determination and redoubtable courage, Australian armed forces served in the Vietnam War for more than a decade – from 1962 until 1972.

Niue 2012 $5 Vietnam 5oz Silver Proof

The conflict began in the late 1950s as a civil war in the south between the communist-backed National Liberation Front and US-backed South Vietnam. The war intensified in the early 60s resulting in Australia responding to a request from South Vietnam and dispatching Army training advisers in August of 1962 to assist local forces. With the situation worsening in the mid 60s, Australia's role in the conflict expanded following America's proposal to increase its military presence. The 1RAR was deployed in May of 1965, and when it was relieved, some 12 months later, Australia's contribution to the war increased once more.

Over the next few years, Australian personnel served with distinction in an extensive variety of roles from jungle patrolling to village search operations, and were involved in several major operations to win back key bases from the determined forces of the communist North. The peak of Australian involvement arrived in 1969, with over 7,000 Army personnel in Vietnam, but by this stage, the USA and Australia were already preparing for withdrawal. From late 1970, Australian forces were progressively withdrawn, before the Australian Governor-General announced the cessation of hostilities on 11 January 1973.

Operating under extremely difficult conditions, and helping to both preserve and pass on the Anzac Spirit of courage, mateship, determination and sacrifice, over 50,000 members of the Australian Army, Air Force and Navy served in Vietnam, suffering over 3,500 casualties, with more than 400 personnel killed in action.

MINTAGE A MERE 400 COINS!

Struck from a massive FIVE TROY OUNCES of .999 fine silver, and spanning an expansive 65mm in diameter, this imposing, official legal tender coin forms a commanding tribute to the 50th anniversary of the beginning of Australian involvement in the Vietnam War.

Contrasting beautifully against the silver Proof backdrop, the depiction of an Australian Special Forces soldier with an Australian soldier and Iroquois helicopter in the background looks superb rendered in colour.

An ideal opportunity for collectors to honour the often unheralded efforts of Aussie diggers who did the country proud during the nation's long, controversial engagement in the Vietnam War – but you will have to be quick.

With the worldwide mintage restricted to an incredibly low 400 coins, and demand for Australian military commemoratives always so strong, a rapidfire sell-out of this poignant precious metal Proof is all but assured. Secure your coin now at the Official Issue Price!

Tasmanian Wedge-Tailed Eagle Flies In As The Second In The Endangered And Extinct Silver Coin Series

2011-09-22T17:07:00.000-07:00

A spectacular legal tender tribute to the majestic, endangered Tasmanian Wedge- Tailed Eagle, this outstanding new Perth Mint-struck coin has put the market in a flap. With soaring demand ensuring that a sell-out of the mintage is imminent, this may well be your last chance to swoop down on the 2012 $1 Tasmanian Wedgetailed Eagle Silver Proof.

Tuvalu 2012 $1 Tasmanian Wedge-Tailed Eagle 1oz Silver Proof

One of the largest birds of prey in the world, instantly recognised by the shape of the tail and its sheer size, the Tasmanian Wedgetailed Eagle is a truly magnificent creature. Critically endangered, with a population believed to be less than 1,500 birds, the noble beauty and fierce independence of Australia’s biggest raptor is captured perfectly in full-colour upon the imposing frame of this sparkling 40mm precious metal Proof. Indeed, the eyecatching beauty of the design alone would have ensured the success of this new release – even without the ready-made audience created by the first coin in the Extinct & Endangered Series.

One of the hottest releases of the year, the 5,000-coin mintage of the 2011 $1 Tasmanian Tiger 1oz Silver Proof was wiped out in record time. With the 2012 $1 Tasmanian Wedge-tailed Eagle Silver Proof a coin of such obvious, innate quality, and its predecessor so popular, it was always likely that the mintage of 5,000 would be inadequate to meet demand – and so it has proved. With a sell-out close at hand – just weeks after release! – you must not miss this final opportunity to secure this unique precious metal Proof at the Official Issue Price!

Euro Collections International New Releases Week in Review

2011-09-15T23:21:00.000-07:00

Here at ECI our aim is to provide the largest range of world coins to meet demands of collectors around the globe. In an effort to increase the exposure of our latest arrivals we've decided to start a weekly blog post that showcases what's new on ECI for the previous week. We hope that this will give collectors easier access to information about new release world coins and banknotes at Euro Collections International.

Week #1 - September 12-16

USA 2011 September 11 Silver Proof Medal
To commemorate the 10th anniversary of the tragedy of "9/11", the US Mint has struck this official commemorative medallion from 1oz (31.1grams) of 99.9% silver on a 40mm flan. More Information

USA 2011 State Quarter 9-11 Colour Tribute Set
Not an official release, but just as poignant, comes this three-coin United States quarters set, also marking the 10th anniversary of 9/11. Using the relevant issues of New York, Virginia and Pennsylvania from the State Quarters series, the 3-coins have been enhanced with full-colour designs showing the Twin Towers, Pentagon building and the Flight 93 National Memorial respectively. The coins are presented in a special tribute folder. More Information

USA 2011 $1 Presidential BU Set
Also arriving on ECI shelves on Monday was another US coin release, the 2011 issues from the celebrated "United States Presidents" series. This four coin set features the president Andrew Johnson (1865-69), Ulysses S. Grant (1869-77), Rutherford B. Hayes (1877-81), James Garfield (1881). More Information

Germany 2011 10€ 500th Anniversary of Till Eulenspiegel Silver Proof
Tuesday saw the arrival of the latest two silver coins from Germany's ongoing yearly commemorative coin program. The coins, being the 4th and 5th releases for 2011, mark the anniversaries of mischievous literary character Til Eulenspiegel and the discovery of the Archaeopteryx fossil oldest known example showing the link between dinosaurs and birds. More Information on Til Eulenspiegel

Germany 2011 10€ 150th Anniversary Discovery of Archaeopteryx Silver Proof
Both silver coins are struck to exact Proof quality and will be the only examples of these coins issued in this ever-increasing precious metal, being struck from 16 grams of 62.5% silver. Germany decided earlier in the year, with the rapidly growing precious metal costs, to cease production of their Uncirculated commemorative coins in the silver, instead offering a cupro-nickel version. No doubt that will only add to demand for this already sought-after program. More Information on Archaeopteryx

Slovakia 2011 10€ 150th Anniversary of Slovak Nation Silver Proof
Also on Tuesday saw new releases from Slovakia, one of the countries benefiting from a growing demand for silver coins from Eastern Europe in general and new EU members in particular. The first of these has been struck in 18 grams of 90% silver on a 34mm flan and marks the anniversary of the signing of the "Memorandum of the Slovak Nation". Sure to start a fire of demand, the coin has an exclusive mintage of just 9,100 coins worldwide. More Information

Slovakia 2011 10€ Jan Cikker Silver Proof
2011 is the 100th anniversary of the birth of one of Slovakia's most famous and revered composers, Jan Cikker. It is only fitting then that the Central Bank of Slovakia issue a commemorative coin, struck in beautiful Proof quality from 18 grams of 90% silver on a 34mm flan, to pay tribute to this man's life and work. More Information

Japan 2011 1000¥ Toyama Silver Proof
ECI is pleased to announce the arrival of the latest silver coins from the voluminous "47 Prefectures" series from the Japan Mint. The series, as the title suggests, will see 47 coins released over several years, with each coin honouring a particular prefecture (district) on the island of Japan. These latest releases mark the 13th coin in the series, and are dedicated to the Toyama prefecture. As with previous releases, the silver coin - struck from 1oz (31.1grams) of 99.9% silver on a 40mm flan are available as a Standard Edition presented in an official display unit, or as a Deluxe Edition that is accompanied by a set of 5 80 yen stamps also honouring Toyama, and presented within an elegant fold-out coin pack. The mintage for each release is 100,000, however it should be noted that only 10% of that mintage (10,000) will be made available outside of Japan.

Italy 2011 5€ 150th Anniversary of Italian Unification Silver Coin
Arriving from the Italian Mint comes this Brilliant Uncirculated Silver coin released to mark the anniversary of the unification of the various Italian states into one single state. The 5 euro coin has been struck from 18g of 92.5% sterling silver on a 32mm flan, with a total worldwide mintage of just 10,000. More Information

Netherlands 2011 5€ 100th Anniversary of Mint Building Silver-Plated Coin
Last but by no means least this week we have this innovative 5 euro coin from the Royal Dutch Mint. To celebrate the 100th anniversary of the completion of the Mint building at Muntkade in Utrecht, Netherlands, the mint has created a truly captivating piece of numismatic work to rival many of their previous, uniquely designed commemorative coins. Within the reverse design featuring a floor plan of the Mint building is an embedded QR code - used with smart phones as a convenient way of viewing a website, image or other type of data. With the code on this coin users will be taken to the Royal Dutch Mint where they will get a special "surprise" within the corridors of the building itself. Try it out! More Information

See you next week!

Perth Mint 2012 Bullion Gold and Silver Coin Releases

2011-08-23T21:00:00.000-07:00

Due for release on September 1, 2011 comes the first round of gold and silver bullion issues struck by the Perth Mint. Always an exciting time on the numismatic calendar, 2012 will have added significance with the release of the hotly anticipated Year of the Dragon bullion coinage, together with the continuation of traditional series favorites, the Kookaburra. The 2012 Koala Silver Bullion coins will be officially released on November 1st, 2011.

Australia 2012 $1 Year of the Dragon Silver Coin

Sure to set the bullion coin collecting world on fire over the next couple of months, with excited anticipation rumbling across various internet coin collecting forums, comes the "Big 3" from Perth Mint - The Kookaburra, Koala and Lunar Dragon.

Celebrating the auspicious Year of the Dragon, the fifth animal in the 12-year cycle of the Chinese zodiac, comes the series of Silver Bullion coins ranging from the 1/2oz all the way up to the massive 10 kilogram silver coin. As well as appealing to collectors, these superb releases are perfect for people born in the Year of the Dragon – 1916, 1928, 1940, 1952, 1964, 1976, 1988, 2000 and 2012. Those born under the influence of this sign are said to be confident, enterprising, independent, self-assured, brave and passionate.

With regards to the silver issues, no mintage limit applies to 1 kilo, 10oz, 5oz, 2oz and 1/2oz coins. Except for the 1 kilo release, production of these coins will close at the end of 2012 and The Perth Mint will declare each coin's official mintage. A maximum of 500 10 kilo coins will be produced on a mint-to-order basis. However, production will close at the end of 2012, when the coin's actual mintage will be declared. The Perth Mint will produce up to 300,000 1oz coins. Production will cease when the mintage is fully sold or at the end of the series, whichever comes first. Be warned, the 1oz Year of the Dragon Silver Coin is sure to sell-out very fast, being the most hotly pursued weight of the most hotly pursued lunar series.

Australia 2012 Year of the Dragon Gold Coin

The Year of the Dragon is also available as a gold bullion issue, with sizes ranging from 1/20oz up to a thoroughly impressive 10 Kilogram release. Similarly to the silver issues, there are no mintage limit applied to the 1kg, 10oz, 2oz, 1/2oz, 1/4oz, 1/10oz, and 1/20oz gold coins. However, production will close at the end of 2012, when The Perth Mint will declare each coin's official mintage. A maximum of 100 10kg coins will be produced on a mint-to-order basis. However, production will close at the end of 2012, when the coin's actual mintage will be declared. The Perth Mint will produce no more than 30,000 1oz coins. Production will cease when the mintage is fully sold or at the end of the series, whichever comes first.

Each gold or silver coin’s reverse depicts a dragon with a representation of a pearl. The Chinese character for ‘dragon’ and the inscription ‘Year of the Dragon’ also appear in the design with The Perth Mint’s traditional ‘P’ mintmark. The Ian Rank-Broadley effigy of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, the 2012 year-date and the monetary denomination are shown on the obverse of each coin.

Euro Collections International would like collectors to know that Downies/ECI has started an official 2012 Year of the Dragon release blog at www.yearofthedragon.net.au, where you will find upcoming releases on a range of Year of the Dragon lunar coinage from around the world throughout 2011 & 2012.

Australia 2012 Kookaburra Silver Coin

Synonymous with all things Australian, the Kookaburra, with it's distinctive "laughing" call, has come to symbolise the Australian spirit of good nature amongst a sometimes harsh backdrop of conditions. The Kookaburra silver coins have come to be an important addition to world silver bullion releases, and the 2012 issue will be no exception. In 2012, The Perth Mint is releasing three silver bullion coins meticulously struck from 99.9% of silver in 1 kilo, 10oz and 1oz sizes. Only 500,000 1oz coins will be released. No mintage limit applies to 1kg and 10oz coins.

The coin’s reverse depicts a kookaburra sitting on a tree branch amid eucalyptus leaves. The Perth Mint’s ‘P’ mintmark and year-date are included in the design. Issued as Australian legal tender, the coin’s obverse bears the Ian Rank-Broadley effigy of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II on its obverse.

Australia 2012 Koala Silver Coin

Lastly, but certainly not least of all, we welcome the 2012 Koala bullion silver coin, to be released on November 1, 2011. Needing no introduction, the Koala silver coins have become a well-favoured inclusion in the Australian Silver Bullion Coin Program for several years now. Each year sees the designers at the Perth Mint come up with a new, eye-catching motif to feature on their coins. Released in a range of sizes, the 2012 Koala silver coins present a great range of choice for the investor or collector.

The koala is one of Australia's most popular animals, accounting for the exceptional success of the Australian Koala series. In 2012, The Perth Mint is releasing four silver bullion coins portraying an adult koala asleep on the branch of a tree. The reverse design also includes The Perth Mint’s ‘P’ mintmark and monetary denomination. The coin’s obverse bears the Ian Rank-Broadley effigy of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II on and is issued as legal tender under the Australian Currency Act 1965.

No mintage limit applies to these coins for 12 months. However, production will close at the end of 2012 and The Perth Mint will declare each coin’s official mintage.

So stay tuned to Euro Collections International - either through our Facebook or Twitter pages, our weekly informative newsletter or just here on the official ECI blog - as our range of 2012 Australia silver and gold bullion coins goes on sale from September 1, 2011.

Introducing the Leonardo da Vinci Codex 24-Piece Silver Coin Collection

2011-08-14T18:50:00.000-07:00

A truly magnificent example of numismatic design, this stunning 24-piece silver coin collection has been issued by the authority of Niue Island to celebrate the inventive mind and skill of Leonardo da Vinci.

Niue 2011 $24 The da Vinci Codex Silver Proof Collection

Honouring the extraordinary foresight and technical brilliance of the ultimate Renaissance Man, Leonardo da Vinci (1452-1519), this unique legal tender set is among the most prestigious, most breathtaking numismatic issues ever offered by ECI. An awe-inspiring presentation, the complete 24-coin collection measures a massive 166.80mm x 240mm, and comprises well over a KILO of .999 fine silver!

A gargantuan work of numismatic art, celebrating da Vinci’s Codex, this imposing collection features an incredible TWENTY-FOUR interlinked legal tender coins – each crafted to flawless Proof quality from 42.5g .999 fine silver. Exquisite examples of full-colour minting, each of those coins represents a part of the Codex – an astonishing collection of drawings and prose fusing art, engineering, anatomy and science, highlighted by da Vinci’s iconic Vitruvian Man. Individually superb, the 24 edgeless full-colour coins unite to form a seamless, absolutely perfect recreation of da Vinci’s work. Undoubtedly one of the most thrilling legal tender commemoratives ECI has had the privilege to offer our clients, this collection is also one of the finest presentations we have seen.

Protecting the spellbinding quality of this lavish, unparalleled commemorative issue, this majestic 24 coin .999 fine silver Proof collection is set between two sheets of thick Perspex, and then housed within a top quality timber box. Complete with an elegant stand, so you can display your new acquisition in style, as well as a detailed information booklet incorporating a Certificate of Authenticity confirming the mintage of just 500, every element of this extensive presentation is housed within a beautifully engraved timber case.

The Niue 2011 $24 Leonardo da Vinci Codex Silver Proof Collection is now available to order from our website.

Introducing The World's First Triptych Silver Coin!

2011-08-05T19:59:00.000-07:00

By the issuing authority of the Cook Islands, ECI is pleased to present a first in world numismatics with this stunning triptych silver coin, dedicated to the famous Dutch painter Hieronymus Bosch and his world renowned work of art entitled "The Garden of Earthly Delights"

Cook Islands 2011 $9 Garden of Earthly Delights Silver Proof Triptych

Hieronymus Bosch was born Hieronymus van Aken. He signed a number of his paintings as "Bosch". The name derives from his birthplace, 's-Hertogenbosch, which is commonly called "Den Bosch". Little is known of Bosch’s life or training. He left behind no letters or diaries so nothing is known of his personality or his thoughts on the meaning of his art. It is generally assumed that either Bosch’s father or one of his uncles (as four out of the five brothers were painters) taught the artist to paint, but none of their works survive. He became a popular painter in his lifetime and often received commissions from abroad. In 1488 he joined the highly respected Brotherhood of Our Lady, an arch-conservative religious group of some 40 influential citizens of 's-Hertogenbosch, and 7,000 'outer-members' from around Europe.

Bosch produced several triptychs. Among his most famous is The Garden of Earthly Delights. This painting, for which the original title has not survived, depicts paradise with Adam and Eve and many wondrous animals on the left panel, the earthly delights with numerous nude figures and tremendous fruit and birds on the middle panel, and hell with depictions of fantastic punishments of the various types of sinners on the right panel. When the exterior panels are closed the viewer can see, painted in grisaille, God creating the Earth. These paintings—especially the Hell panel—are painted in a comparatively sketchy manner which contrasts with the traditional Flemish style of paintings. In this painting Bosch draws with his brush. Not surprisingly, Bosch is also one of the most revolutionary draftsmen in the history of art, producing some of the first autonomous sketches in Northern Europe.

Each panel of the triptych silver coin shows a different panel of the original painting, with the left panel showing the Garden of Eden and the moment that God presented Eve to Adam. The larger middle panel shows the expansive garden landscape from which the painting takes its name. It is neither paradise nor the terrestrial plain, as fantastic creatures are seen mingling with real, all amongst a bevvy of nude males and females engaging in a wide variety of activities. The right panel, perhaps the most famous of the triptych, symbolises Hell, where humans have succumb to the temptations of the Devil and reap eternal damnation.

The three individual coins are all struck from 92.5% sterling silver with the following specification:

Right Panel:
Diameter - 17.50mm x 35.00mm
Weight - 15.56 grams
Denomination - 2 Dollars

Middle Panel:
Diameter - 35.00mm x 35.00mm
Weight - 31.10 grams
Denomination - 5 Dollars

Left Panel:
Diameter - 17.50mm x 35.00mm
Weight - 15.56 grams
Denomination - 2 Dollars

Each panel of the triptych silver coin is individually encapsulated for ultimate protection, and presented in a high quality fold-out timber display unit that beautifully showcases this exquisite numismatic creation. Accompanying this impressive presentation is an information booklet detailing the history of Bosch and further details of the Garden of Earthly Delights painting. Also supplied is a Certificate of Authenticity attesting to the exclusive worldwide mintage of just 500 coins.

The Cook Islands 2011 $9 Garden of Earthly Delights Silver Proof Triptych is currently available through the Euro Collections International website.

Royal Canadian Mint Release Their First Silver & Niobium Coin!

2011-07-21T19:15:00.000-07:00

June 16, 2011: The Royal Canadian Mint has unveiled the first in a new series dedicated to the Full Moons of the Algonquins - which also happens to be the first coin produced by the RCM to contain the rare metal known as Niobium.

Canada 2011 $5 Full Buck Moon Silver Niobium Proof

Discovered by the English chemist Charles Hatchett in 1801 but not used commercially until the early 20th century, Niobium is employed mostly in alloys, the largest part in special steel such as that used in gas pipelines, as even a tiny percentage of Niobium adds strength to the steel. The metal is also used in electronics, welding, nuclear industries and optics. In numismatics Niobium is used purely as a decorative enhancement to coins, most notably the Silver & Niobium series produced by the Austrian Mint, although other countries such as Latvia and Luxembourg have also had coins struck with Niobium cores (these coins were, however, produced at the Austrian Mint). The ability to colour the Niobium using anodization has made it increasingly popular in the production of jewellery and numismatic products.

As shown in the image above, the inclusion of Niobium adds a quality to the coin that is unobtainable through other methods of colouring coins, such as pad printing. As it is a metal it seamlessly integrates with the silver portion of the coin, creating a marvelous, eye-catching piece of work.

This is the first coin to be released as part of the Royal Canadian Mint's Full Moons of the Algonquin series, with future releases to cover the Full Hunter’s Moon, Full Wolf Moon and Full Pink Moon.

From the Royal Canadian Mint:

In North America, the First Nations tribes that comprise the Algonquin people utilized the lunar cycle as a celestial calendar to track time. They assigned a name to every full moon to reflect the seasonal activities that accompanied its specific cycle. The Algonquin people lived across a vast territory from Lake Superior to the Atlantic—and the geographical differences between them produced a variety of names for each full moon.

July is the quintessential month of summer. Its full moon is known as Thunder Moon or Summer Moon, but its most common name is Buck Moon to reflect the fact that bucks in the North American wilderness are beginning to grow new antlers—a vision of elegance and strength inspired by the ever-changing cycle of life.

Each coin is struck from 8.5 grams of 92.5% sterling silver on a 28mm flan to rigorous Proof standards. The reverse design of this coin, in keeping with it's dedication, features a buck standing in a field, the image struck into the niobium core. Adding further innovation and contrast is the silver moon within the Niobium, possibly the first time this has been done in numismatics.

Each silver and niobium coin is presented in an official wooden flip case, lined with flock and protected by an outer sleeve. These coins are available now from Euro Collections International.

Just When You Thought It Was Safe To Go Back In The Water - Along Comes The New 2011 Deadly & Dangerous Silver Coin!

2011-06-14T19:50:00.000-07:00

June 7, 2011: The Perth Mint has released the latest in the hugely popular Deadly and Dangerous series - with 2011 being the year of the Box Jelly Fish! Struck on commission, this series has seen such nasty creatures as the Red Back Spider, Great White Shark, Blue-Ringed Octopus, Saltwater Crocodile and Brown Snake immortalised on 99.9% fine silver coinage!

Tuvalu 2011 $1 Deadly and Dangerous Box Jellyfish 1oz Silver Proof

Carrying on the tradition of high quality Proof silver coins enhanced with stunning full-colour struck using the Perth Mint's state-of-the-art minting and printing technologies, the D&D Box Jelly Fish 1oz silver release is sure to follow the incredible demand of it's predecessors by selling out rapidly.

Box jellyfish (class Cubozoa) are cnidarian invertebrates distinguished by their cube-shaped medusae. Box jellyfish are known for the extremely potent venom produced by some species. Chironex fleckeri, Carukia barnesi and Malo kingi are among the most venomous creatures in the world. Stings from these and a few other species in the class are extremely painful and sometimes fatal to humans.

Each 2011 Deadly and Dangerous Box Jelly Fish 1oz Silver coin is struck from 31.10 grams of 99.9% pure silver on a 40.60mm flan. The coin features a design of the Box Jelly Fish in it's natural habitat of the ocean, with a small cluster of coral to the left. The coin has been struck as legal tender for the island nation of Tuvalu and comes presented in a stunning, official Perth Mint timber display case with colourful outer shipper box and accompanied by an individually numbered Certificate of Authenticity.

This is a must-have release for collectors of the Deadly and Dangerous series, but also an incredible one-off release for anyone keep to own a piece of this popular annual collection. With no word on whether there will ever be another Deadly and Dangerous coin released, this possibly final entry in the series becomes all the more significant.

Perth Mint June Releases!

2011-06-08T19:32:00.000-07:00

June 7, 2011: The Perth Mint has released their June products and ECI is pleased to be able to offer the following items to collectors!

Australia 2011 $1 Australian Rugby Union Men of Gold 1oz Silver Proof

To pay tribute to one of Australia’s greatest sporting institutions, the Perth Mint has released this stunning 99.9% silver coin, enhanced with the Aussie green & gold, for the Australian Rugby Union side, the Wallabies. An iconic piece of memorabilia leading up to the 2011 Rugby World Cup to be held in New Zealand later this year, this impressive 40.60mm precious metal issue, fashioned from 1 troy ounce (31.10 grams) of pure silver, is a must-have keepsake for any sporting enthusiast worth their salt. Struck in impeccable Proof quality and featuring the image of a Wallabies player in action, each silver coin is presented in official, high quality Perth Mint packaging, accompanied by a numbered Certificate of Authenticity.

Australia 2011 $15 Koala 1/10oz Gold Proof

As part of the 2011 Gold Koala series, ECI has been given an allocation of the 1/10oz Gold Proof, one of the more accessible coins in the series. Struck from 99.99% pure gold on a 16.10mm flan, this exciting gold issue mirrors the same design as on the popular 2011 silver Koala coin. With a worldwide mintage of just 5000, and a price set under $280, the affordability and exclusivity of this eye-catching Koala is sure to generate a great deal of demand. Set within an official Perth Mint case and colourful outer box with Certificate of Authenticity.

Australia 2011 50c Sealife II Hawksbill Turtle 1/2oz Silver Proof

Perhaps the most exciting release for June is this one - the first release in a new series following on from the immensely popular Sea Life series of 2010/2011. Sure to generate as much demand as it's predecessors - all of whom have sold out at the mint with a few even scarce on the secondary market - this Sea Life II series sees a new set of 5 ocean creature-themed coins released over coming months. The first of these is dedicated to the Hawksbill Turtle, and features a fantastic image of the endangered Turtle, brilliantly displayed using the state-of-the-art pad printing techniques of the Perth Mint. Struck from one half troy ounce (15.55 grams) of 99.9% silver on a 36.60mm flan to the highest Proof quality, the limited mintage of just 10,000 coins released worldwide is sure to sell-out fast. With other colourful sea creatures such as the starfish, octopus and manta ray being immortalised in silver as part of this series over the coming months, expectations are high that this sequel series will be as popular as it's predecessor. Each high quality silver coin is supplied in a Perth Mint jewel case with full-colour outer shipper, accompanied by a Certificate of Authenticity confirming the limited worldwide mintage.

New Series of Silver Coins Released For Transformers: Dark of the Moon Movie

2011-05-31T20:17:00.000-07:00

May 30, 2011: The Perth Mint, in conjunction with Hasbro, has released a second series of full-colour Transformers silver coins. The coins have been issued to celebrate the third film in the Transformers blockbuster franchise, Transformers: Dark of the Moon - due for release in cinemas on June 30. This second series, coming after the two coins released in 2009 to celebrate the second Transformers movie, Transformers: Revenge of the Fallen, sees three silver coins issued, each featuring a different character from the Transformers universe.

Tuvalu 2011 $1 Transformers Optimus Prime 1oz Silver Proof

The first coin features Optimus Prime, leader of the heroic Autobots. An Optimus Prime silver coin was also issued as part of the 2009 series, however this 2011 coin features an all new design coupled with the expert full-colour printing technique that the Perth Mint has become famous for.

Tuvalu 2011 $1 Transformers Megatron 1oz Silver Proof

A Megatron coin was also issued in the 2009 series, and as with the 2011 Optimus Prime silver coin, this 2011 release also features a brand new design, taken from the Transformers: Dark of the Moon film. Megatron, for those who don't know, is the leader of the ruthless Decepticons.

Tuvalu 2011 $1 Transformers Bumblebee 1oz Silver Proof

What is sure to excite collectors of the series and fans of the movie franchise alike is the inclusion this year of an official Bumblebee silver coin. After the 2009 release there were a lot of people hoping that a new series would see a coin fashioned with the likeness of the loveable "little brother" of the Autobots, and they're prayers have been answered.

As the final battle looms between the shape-shifting alien Autobots and Decepticons, official movie coins celebrating Transformers: Dark of the Moon have been released by The Perth Mint.

Designed for addicts of Michael Bay's latest sci-fi epic, each coin is a magnificent, legal tender collectable superbly struck from pure silver.

The coloured coin designs portray fan-favourites Optimus Prime, Megatron and Bumblebee. Each coin comes in an exclusive presentation box which adds to its attraction as a commemorative.

Opportunities to secure the three coins are, however, strictly limited. Just 5,000 of each design will be released worldwide accompanied by a numbered Certificate of Authenticity confirming its rarity. Order now to avoid disappointment!

Also available is the Tuvalu 2011 $1 Transformers Silver Proof Complete Collection - get all three silver coins together and save almost $50 off the individual retail price! The coins are available by clicking the links above or visiting Euro Collections International

Israel Commemorates 63rd Year of Statehood With Dead Sea Coins

2011-05-22T21:11:00.000-07:00

To mark the 63rd anniversary of Israeli Statehood, the Israel Mint has released three precious metal coins, each featuring the famous Dead Sea. The coins, available as 1 New Sheqel Silver Prooflike, 2 New Sheqel Silver Proof and 10 New Sheqel Gold Proof, are offered as a set of three coins, with the two silver coins also being offered individually.

Israel 2011 Dead Sea 3-Coin Set

Each year the Israel Mint releases it's precious metal commemorative coins to the expectant demand of worldwide collectors. The themes contained on each years releases have included many different facets of Israeli life as well as biblical stories.

About the Dead Sea:

The Dead Sea, also called the Salt Sea, is a salt lake bordering Jordan to the east and Israel and the West Bank to the west. Its surface and shores are 423 metres (1,388 ft) below sea level,[2] the lowest elevation on the Earth's surface on dry land. The Dead Sea is 377 m (1,237 ft) deep, the deepest hypersaline lake in the world. With 33.7% salinity, it is also one of the world's saltiest bodies of water, though Lake Assal (Djibouti), Garabogazköl and some hypersaline lakes of the McMurdo Dry Valleys in Antarctica (such as Don Juan Pond) have reported higher salinities. It is 8.6 times saltier than the ocean. This salinity makes for a harsh environment in which animals cannot flourish, hence its name. The Dead Sea is 67 kilometres (42 mi) long and 18 kilometres (11 mi) wide at its widest point. It lies in the Jordan Rift Valley, and its main tributary is the Jordan River.

The Dead Sea has attracted visitors from around the Mediterranean basin for thousands of years. Biblically, it was a place of refuge for King David. It was one of the world's first health resorts (for Herod the Great), and it has been the supplier of a wide variety of products, from balms for Egyptian mummification to potash for fertilizers. People also use the salt and the minerals from the Dead Sea to create cosmetics and herbal sachets. In 2009, 1.2 million foreign tourists visited on the Israeli side.

The sea has a density of 1.24 kg/L, making swimming difficult but providing a relaxing floating experience.

Israel 2011 1 New Sheqel Silver Prooflike

Each of the three coins features the same design on the reverse side: An aerial image of the Dead Sea and the land surrounding it - together with the image of a wild goat, one of the many example of wildlife in the area. To the left is the inscription for "Dead Sea" in Arabic, English and Hebrew.

The Obverse of each coin has it's respective denomination, as well as country and year of issue and the commemoration of Israel's independence day for 2011.

Israel 2011 2 New Sheqel Silver Proof

The 1 New Sheqel silver coin is struck from 14.4 grams of 92.5% sterling silver on a 30mm flan with a worldwide mintage of 1,800, to proof-like quality. The 2 New Sheqel is struck from 28.8 grams of 92.5% sterling silver on a 38.61mm flan with a worldwide mintage of 5,000, to proof quality. The 10 New Sheqel gold coin is struck from 16.96 grams of 22-carat gold on a 30mm flan. The 3 coin set has a release mintage of 555 sets issued worldwide, to proof quality.

Adding to the value of both the individual coins and the 3-coin set, each coin/set is presented in official Israel Mint packaging, which includes a smaple of actual salt from the Dead Sea. The coins/set are accompanied by a Certificate of Authenticity.

Bank of Canada Announces Details on New Series of Polymer Bank Notes

2011-05-09T17:03:00.000-07:00

OTTAWA (March 2011) – The Bank of Canada announced that it will begin circulating a new $100 polymer bank note in November 2011, with a polymer $50 note to follow in March 2012. The Bank also provided further technical and background information about the new bank notes. More details on the security features, themes and designs of these denominations will be unveiled in the spring of 2011. The remaining denominations—the $20 note, followed by the $10 and $5 notes—will be unveiled and issued by the end of 2013.

With the introduction of the polymer bank note series, the Bank’s main focus continues to be security. “Canada’s new bank notes will have innovative security features that are easy to verify,” said Mark Carney, Governor of the Bank of Canada. “The leading-edge technology in these notes will expand the frontiers of bank note security.”

In addition to enhancing security, the new bank note series will be easier to verify, more economical and have a reduced environmental impact. The Bank of Canada evaluated a number of options before deciding on a new suite of security features and on the use of polymer material—which is expected to last at least 2.5 times longer than the current cotton-paper bills.

To prepare for the new notes, the Bank is working closely with financial institutions and manufacturers of bank note equipment to ensure a smooth transition to polymer. Law enforcement agencies and retailers will also be important partners as the Bank introduces the polymer series. “With these new notes, the Bank of Canada will provide Canadians with a durable, high-quality, secure form of payment that they can use with confidence,” added Governor Carney.

Massive Five Kilogram Silver Coin Released in Honour of Famous Explorer

2011-04-21T19:07:00.000-07:00

A gigantic celebration of one of the key characters of the history of exploration, ECI is proud to present the limited edition 2011 $500 Vitus Bering Five Kilo Silver Proof!

Measuring an incredible 150mm in diameter, this majestic commemoration of Vitus Bering (1681-1741) is, however, defined by more than its awe-inspiring dimensions. A coin of superb Proof quality, immense beauty, spellbinding presentation and strictly limited availability, there is no doubt that the tiny mintage of this collectable colossus will be heavily over-subscribed.

British Virgin Islands 2011 $500 Vitus Bering 5Kg Silver Proof

A coin of immense stature...
A commemorative in keeping with the fame of Bering – who was one of the first known explorers to pass between Asia and North America, thus proving they were separate continents – the size and weight of this startling silver Proof will leave you mesmerized. Struck to the pinnacle of Proof quality, each official British Virgin Islands $500 is crafted from a mind-boggling FIVE KILOS of .999 fine silver. That's over 160 troy ounces of pure precious metal! One of very issues to have been struck to this size (it spans 150mm in diameter) this new release is one of the largest, most impressive numismatic tributes that ECI has had the privilege to present to our clients.

A powerful theme...
Whilst sought after for the inherent quality and wealth of features of the actual coin, this masterpiece of collector coinage will also be in hot demand for the strong theme. Certain to be pursued by maritime collectors, the huge frame of this precious metal masterpiece is distinguished by a superb design of one of the vessels Bering used in his voyages of exploration – voyages which saw him become the first European to discover Alaska and the Aleutian Islands.

Official legal tender...
A unique piece of numismatic artistry, no effort has been spared in the creation of the 2011 $500 Bering Five Kilo Silver Proof. An official legal tender issue of the British Virgin Islands, bearing the Ian Rank-Broadley portrait of Queen Elizabeth II on the obverse, this exclusive release not only features a beautifully sculpted design – it also features genuine miniature nautical instruments set within the massive 150mm diameter flan!

Presentation without equal...
Providing a most appropriate environment for a coin of this size and prestige, the 2011 $500 Bering Five Kilo Silver Proof is housed in a luxurious timber presentation case. Heavy and imposing, and complete with a numbered Certificate of Authenticity confirming the tiny mintage, the exquisite quality of this lavish case is the perfect finishing touch to a presentation that will dazzle the most discriminating collector.

A once-in-a-lifetime opportunity...
The only thing tiny about this gargantuan collector coin is the mintage. Underestimating the demand from the ever-growing body of collectors interested in oversized coinage – and inadvertently enhancing the collector value of the coin – the British Virgin Islands has restricted the limited edition of the Bering Five Kilo Silver Proof to just 350. Given the increase in interest in large precious metal Proofs resulting from the dramatic recent rise soaring metal prices, there is no doubt that this mammoth Five Kilo Silver Proof will be available for a short time only.

We must urge immediate action, as, once this giant of numismatics is gone, it will be gone forever.

A supreme acquisition, this colossus of collector coinage is...

* comprised of a massive FIVE KILOGRAMS of .999 fine silver – more than 160 troy ounces!
* taken from a tiny worldwide mintage of just 350 – sell-out certain
* enriched with full-colour miniature nautical tools on the enormous, individually edge-numbered 150mm diameter flan
* an official legal tender issue of the British Virgin Islands, bearing the Rank-Broadley portrait of Queen Elizabeth II
* housed in a luxurious timber case with an official serial-numbered Certificate of Authenticity

Mint of Finland Ltd buys German coin-blank manufacturer Saxonia EuroCoin GmbH

2011-04-21T18:49:00.000-07:00

More flexible and innovative solutions for circulation and commemorative coins to Mint of Finland´s customers

Mint of Finland Ltd, which produces metallic circulation and collector coins, has bought the entire share capital of the German coin-blank manufacturer Saxonia EuroCoin GmbH from DNick Holding plc, which is the manufacturer of nickel and nickel alloys listed on the unofficial registered market in Germany. The deal has established the strongest coin manufacturer in the Eurozone. Since the deal took place, the budgeted turnover for Mint of Finland Group in 2011 is EUR over 120 million.

With these new business operations, Mint of Finland Group can offer increasingly flexible and innovative solutions for circulation and commemorative coins to its customers in central banks, mints and collector coin specialists from all around the world. The deal will bring the benefits of synergy in sales, marketing and product development. The deal does not affect the location of production plants in Vantaa, Finland or Halsbrücke, Germany.

Saxonia EuroCoin GmbH was founded in 1993. Saxonia EuroCoin is the biggest coin-blank manufacturer in the Eurozone whose products include coated steel coin blanks, non-ferrous metal blanks and precious metal blanks. In 2010, the company's turnover was EUR 80.7 million and it had 95 employees.

Thanks to this deal, Finnish coin manufacture is strengthening its position in the world market. In 2010, the company produced 1.1 billion coins, for which the Mint of Finland is one of the world's biggest coin exporters.

Austrian Mint Issue "Monstrous" Silver Coin for Tales & Legends Program

2011-04-21T18:24:00.000-07:00

May 4, 2011: The Austrian Mint has issued the penultimate silver coin in their popular series entitled "Tales and Legends of Austria". The six-coin program, issued between 2009 and 2011, sees Brilliant Uncirculated and Proof quality silver coins released to celebrate various tales of folklore throughout Austria's rich history. Previous issues have been dedicated to The Basilisk, Charlemagne In The Untersburg, King Richard I Lionheart and Discovery Of Erzberg. This latest silver coin in the series tells of the legend of The Lindwurm in Klagenfurt!

Austria 2011 10€ The Lindwurm in Klagenfurt Silver Proof

Legend has it that the town of Klagenfurt was founded after a couple of brave men had slain the abominable "Lindwurm", a winged dragon in the moors adjoining the lake, the staple diet of which is said to have been virgins, but which did not spurn the fat bull on a chain that the men had mounted on a strong tower. The feat is commemorated by a grandiose 9-ton Renaissance monument in the city centre.

The coin shows the Lindwurm fountain on Neuer Platz in Klagenfurt and the statue of Hercules in front of it. The other side of the coin depicts the fight with the monster. On the left-hand side is the tower built as a defense against the Lindwurm. Behind its gate, two labourers barricade themselves in, while through the window a chain is stretched and the barb is entangled in the mouth of the raging monster.

The "Lindwurm" is only issued in "brilliant uncirculated" (max. 30,000 pieces) and "proof" (max. 40,000 pieces) quality since, due to the high price of silver, circulation pieces will not be issued at face value. The coins in "brilliant uncirculated" quality come in an informative blister pack, while those in "proof" quality are packed in an attractive box with a numbered certificate of authenticity, which provides technical information about the quality and design of the coin.

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During the middle ages, in a scruffy dark wooded and somewhat swampy area in the region of Carinthia, lived a Lindworm (a small dragon with tiny wings.) The dragon used to terrorize the region as it searched for food. Cattle and sheep would mysteriously disappear. A curious young herder went looking for his missing cow in the woods and was never seen again. The fear of the villagers grew to such a level that trade was seriously hindered, as the story of the sinister Lindworm spread throughout the land.

This frustrated and angered the Duke of the region and so he offered a handsome reward to anyone who could capture the Lindworm. On the edge of the swampy area he had a large round tower built of stone. To whoever killed the Lindworm the Duke offered that they would receive the tower, all the surrounding land, and become a free person, regardless of their station in life (even a serf was eligible).

A courageous group of men came forward and decided they would try this daring feat. They brought with them an enormous steer and a heavy chain. They tied the steer to a chain. They then suspended the steer with the chain to the tower. From this chain there also huge a huge barbed hook that the village blacksmith had made for them. When the steer was suspended its angry mooing and grunts were heard far and wide. Meanwhile the clever chaps stayed inside the tower and could watch in all directions looking for the Lindworm to appear from the swamp. Soon the Lindworm appeared from the steamy foggy swampy area. The friends in the tower were almost overcome with fear, as the terrifying Lindworm got closer. The sight of the Lindworm was unbelievable, covered with scales and a long tail, with protruding dark glazed eyes and flaring nostrils that blew black steam. The Lindworm attacked the steer with its massive jaws and bit away a part of its hind end. It swung around with lightening speed and opened its huge mouth and bit down hard on the head area of the steer. A horrifying howl emanated from its jaws because the barbed hook sank deep into the tender jaw and head of the Lindworm. Its tail swished back and forth slinging the drooling slime from its jaw up into the sky. The group of friends barely recovered from their fright and knew that they had to react fast before the Lindworm could free itself from the hook. So they climbed out over the top edge of the tower and clubbed the Lindworm to death with their iron clubs.

The Duke was relieved and very happy and in celebration he even had a fortress built for the courageous men on their new property. It was not long until trade was restored. The new proud landowners saw a small village blossom on the ground where the Lindworm made its last stand. The happy villagers helped to drain the land and rid the area of the scruffy bush and soon farmers were tilling the fruitful area. The village flourished and continued to grow because of the successful trade and the bounty of the land, and so the village of Klagenfurt came to be. The memory of the Lindworm lives on today with the fountain in the center of the city, in the “Neuer Platz” and in the city’s coat of arms that has the Lindworm integrated into it.

Royal Australian Mint to Issue International Women's Day Commemorative Coin

2011-04-06T20:48:00.000-07:00

March 8, 2011: The Assistant Treasurer Bill Shorten and the Minister for the Status of Women Kate Ellis today announced that a commemorative 20 cent coin, celebrating the centenary of International Women’s Day, will be released into public circulation.

The coin will be issued by the Royal Australian Mint, which is responsible for producing all of Australia's circulating coins.

The Assistant Treasurer remarked that the coin honoured the past and future contributions of women to the development of Australia’s prosperity.

“Over one hundred years the development of women’s equality has been celebrated and the recognition of which has grown around the world,” the Assistant Treasurer said.

“This coin follows a great Australian tradition of recognising strong, historically significant women, including Mary Reibey ($20 note), who started life as a convict but rose to become a successful businesswoman, and Dame Mary Gilmore ($10 note), a noted writer and poet, on our currency.”

“To mark these one hundred years on a coin and have this celebration recognised will help create even more awareness and recognition as the public see this coin in years to come.”

Minister Ellis said that the centenary of International Women’s Day on Tuesday 8 March 2011 was a chance for celebration and reflection.

"International Women’s Day is a time for us to recognise the many and diverse achievements of Australian women, both today and throughout our history," Minister Ellis said.

“It is fitting for this to be acknowledged on a coin, which will be a constant reminder of how far we have come and how far we still have to go when it comes to gender equality in Australia."

The coin design is being developed in consultation with Mint designers, the Australian Government Office for Women and UN Women Australia and will be seen in public circulation in the coming months.

International Women’s Day (IWD) is celebrated on 8 March across the world.

Source

National Bank of Poland Issue Commemorative Silver Coin for First Anniversary of Smolensk Plane Crash

2011-04-05T22:09:00.000-07:00

The Mint of Poland (Mennica Polska), in conjunction with the National Bank of Poland, has issued a series of commemorative coins to mark the first anniversary of the Smolensk plane crash and the souls lost that day.

Poland 2011 20Zl Victims of the Smolensk Plane Crash Silver Proof

On April 10, 2010, while on route to commemorate the 70th anniversary of the Katyn Massacre - a mass murder of Polish intellectuals, politicians, and military officers carried out by Soviet secret police - Polish Air Force aircraft Tupolev Tu-154M crashed near the city of Smolensk, Russia, killing all 96 people on board. These included the Polish president Lech Kaczyński and his wife, the chief of the Polish General Staff and other senior Polish military officers, the president of the National Bank of Poland, Poland's deputy foreign minister, Polish government officials, 12 members of the Polish parliament, senior members of the Polish clergy, and relatives of victims of the Katyn massacre.

The Katyn massacre, also known as the Katyn Forest massacre, was a mass execution of Polish nationals carried out by the Soviet secret police NKVD in April–May 1940. It was based on Lavrentiy Beria's proposal to execute all members of the Polish Officer Corps, dated 5 March 1940. This official document was then approved and signed by the Soviet Politburo, including its leader, Joseph Stalin. The number of victims is estimated at about 22,000, the most commonly cited number being 21,768.

In Poland, the public reacted with shock and grief to the Smolensk Plane Crash on April 10, 2010. Almost immediately after the news broke, tens of thousands of Poles assembled at the Presidential Palace to lay tributes, including flowers, wreaths, and candles. A week of national mourning was declared in Poland. Poles around the world mourned Kaczyński and set up shrines in the week that followed. Flags flew at half mast in Poland. Sports fixtures, including women's U-17 UEFA Championship elite qualifying phase game Poland versus Republic of Ireland in Ukraine, were postponed.

One year later the National Bank of Poland has issued a series of commemorative coins to mark the anniversary of this tragic event. These include a 100 Zloty Gold coin featuring images of the Polish President, Lech Kaczyński, and his wife, a 20 Zloty Silver coin showing the portrait of National Bank of Poland President Sławomir Skrzypek, another 20 Zloty Silver coin with an image of the Polish Air Force jet, and a 2 Zloty Nordic Gold coin showing tree boughs.

Euro Collections International is able to offer collectors the 20 Zloty Silver coin featuring an image of the Air Force jet that crashed in the woods near Smolensk. Struck from 28.28 grams of 92.5% sterling silver on a 38.61mm flan, the coin shows the solemn image of the plane with a damaged wing against a background of tree boughs. On the obverse is the image of a broken tree truck and tree fragments. Each silver coin is encapsulated and accompanied by a Certificate of Authenticity confirming the world-wide mintage of 50,000.

Introducing the World's Largest Commemorative Silver Coin!

2011-03-24T17:55:00.000-07:00

Euro Collections International is proud to introduce collectors to this most majestic and innovative of numismatic items. The 2011 Sistine Chapel Silver Proof Collection has been issued to commemorate the 500th anniversary of the original, gloriously breathtaking work of art created by master painter Michelangelo between 1508 and 1512.

Niue 2011 $33 Sistine Chapel Silver Proof Collection

As a complete item measuring an astonishing 326 x 120 millimeters and weighing an impressive 1 kilogram, this numismatic reproduction of one of the most treasured works of art in history is made up of 33 separate pieces (in 5 different sizes), each featuring expertly crafted, vibrant edgeless colour printing to form a seamless recreation of Michelangelo's world famous artistic structure.

The Sistine Chapel is the best-known Chapel in Christianity. It was built by Giovanni de’ Dolci as Papal Chapel for Pope Sixtus IV between 1477 and 1482. It is famous for its architecture, evocative of Solomon´s Temple of the Old Testament and its decoration. Pope SixtusIV consecrated the first mass in honor of “Our Lady of the Assumption” in 1483. Since then the chapel has served as a place of both religious and functionary papal activity. Today it is the site of the Papal Conclave, the process by which a new Pope is selected.

Michelangelo Buonarroti was commissioned by Pope Julius II in 1508 to repaint the ceiling of the Chapel. It was originally painted as golden stars on a blue sky. The work was completed between 1508 and 1512. Michelangelo painted 12,000sq feet (1,100m2) of the chapel ceiling with themes from the Book of Genesis. He was originally commissioned to paint only 12 figures, the Apostles. After the work was finished, there were more than 300. Today the ceiling is widely believed to be Michelangelo's crowning achievement in painting.

To suitably complete this superb product, each massive 33 piece silver coin is presented in the highest quality packaging - with the completed work of art set between two sheets of thick, protective perspex. Also supplied is an elegant display stand and a pair of gloves for proper handling - all set within a top quality, transparent top red timber box that comes within a final black leatherette outer case for ultimate protection. To cap off this magnificent offer, each Sistine Chapel Silver Proof Collection is supplied with a Certificate of Authenticity and an official, highly descriptive information booklet with details surrounding the creation of the Sistine Chapel Ceiling masterpiece.

Only 500 Sistine Chapel Silver Proof Collections have been released world-wide, and through our network or distributors ECI has managed to acquire a tiny allocation to offer discerning collectors of the most original, elegant and intriguingly innovative numismatic items. With our special layaway program making owning this imposing coin an option for an even wider range of collectors, an immediate order is recommended to avoid missing out on a truly rare and unique spectacle of minting excellence.

Information about Michelangelo's Sistine Chapel work was taken from Wikipedia. Source

New $100 Tasmanian Tiger One Ounce Gold Coin Released!

2011-03-17T21:11:00.000-07:00

March 16, 2011: One of the most desirable, most exclusive gold issues to be released in Australia, this exquisite legal tender coin forms the ultimate tribute to one of Australia’s most intriguing, most well-known native creatures – the Tasmanian Tiger. To be offered on a subscription basis, with orders taken only until the 15th of April, 2011, no more than 150 examples of this MASSIVE ONE TROY OUNCE .9999 FINE GOLD PROOF WILL EVER BE STRUCK!

Niue 2011 $100 Tasmanian Tiger 1oz Gold Proof

Produced by Swiss precious metal specialists Produits Artistiques Métaux Précieux (PAMP), this new release is a masterwork of numismatic craftsmanship. Struck to the most rigorous Proof standards from a full troy ounce of pure, lustrous .9999 gold, every collector will be impressed by the glorious full-colour motif, the sharply frosted background designs and the stunning mirrored field. Unquestionably one of the finest colour coins we have ever offered, capturing perfectly the distinctive appearance of the Tasmanian Tiger, the full-colour design has been created in fully struck-up high relief!

Sure to command the attention of those enchanted by the unparalleled beauty, rarity and prestige of the world’s favourite precious metal – and the many people seeking coins defined by extremely exclusive limited availability – there is no doubt that the tiny maximum mintage of 150 will be achieved at super speed. Indicative of demand for all large gold coins, the 100-coin mintage of the 2010 $100 Ned Kelly 1oz Gold Proof was over-subscribed in just SEVEN days!

With only one hundred and fifty people ACROSS THE WORLD able to enjoy this prestigious, edge-numbered 38.61mm 1oz Gold Proof, the need for an immediate order is obvious.

• Incredibly exclusive, the ‘strike-to-order’ mintage has been set at just 150!
• Crafted to the highest Proof quality from a troy ounce of .9999 fine gold
• Stunning full-colour design – created in fully struck-up high relief!
• Measuring 38.61mm in diameter, the 1oz gold flan features edge numbering
• Beautifully presented within a superb timber presentation case
• Complete with an individually numbered Certificate of Authenticity

Austrian Mint Release New Niobium and Silver Coin Dedicated to Robotics

2011-03-11T16:01:00.000-08:00

March 16, 2011: The Austrian mint will issue today the 2011 edition of its highly sought after niobium and silver bimetallic coin, this year featuring robotics.
Robotics is no longer science fiction but an integral part of our daily lives. Almost every aspect of our modern lives has been touched by robotics from simple tasks such as vacuuming, or pool cleaning to precision manufacturing or voice controls in cars, protecting soldiers in the field and exploration of outer space, to name but a few.

Austria 2011 25€ Robotics Silver Niobium BU

The obverse of the new bimetallic coin features a robot in a humanoid form, reflecting the Vitruvian man of Leonardo Da Vinci, recognizing the advanced thinking of this great man, and reminding us all that we are a product of centuries of thinking. The perfectly proportioned Vitruvian man is easy to replicate in the man-made world of robotics. The "robot's" arms in the two positions are exactly proportioned to fit right to the edge of the niobium core. The Vitruvian-like robot is standing on lines of zeros that run from the outer silver ring across the niobium core and onto the other side of the silver ring, representing the thousands of lines of binary code that are required to program a robot. The binary code and the cogwheels, represent the electronic and mechanical worlds that are required for development in robots.

Also on the obverse of the coin and located in the silver ring is the country of issue, Republic of Austria, and the year of issue. The face value of the coin, 25 euros, is located in the left quadrant of the pure niobium design field.

The reverse of the coin depicts a robotic lander on the surface of Mars - hence the deep reddish-pink colour of the 2011 niobium coin. The mars lander is based on a design by the European Space Agency. The six-wheeled lander operates on solar power collected by large panels and shown in the middle third of the coin design. The lander is also equipped with a camera seen in the middle of the silver ring at the top of the coin. In the background is a mountainous Martian landscape covered with boulders. At the top and the left of the silver ring stars are depicted. Earth is noted in the lower part of the silver ring.

The niobium core of the 2011 edition has been oxidised prior to the striking. When the niobium core and the silver ring are placed into a coin press and then struck twice the metals fuse together and the oxidised surface of the reddish-pink core takes on a shimmer that creates a rainbow effect on the surface of the coin's core, One can see a shimmer of bronze, blue, purple, pink and copper on the niobium surface of the core. The flow of the metal during the striking process determines how the shimmer effect will finally appear and therefore each coin has a unique colour.

The word 'robot' has been around since 1921 when Czech playwright Karl Capek coined the word in his play "Rossum's Universal Robots, R.U.R". The word comes from the Czech word 'robota' meaning forced labour, and repetitive work. Robots early on were found in manufacturing facilities completing simple repetitive work. Now robots are used for much more complex and intricate work completing several tasks in one smooth and efficient motion. The sophistication of robots is ever increasing, such that today cognitive computing is used more and more to program them. The fields of psychology, neuroscience, computer science and mathematics are all coming together with the science of electronics and mechanics. Robots have "learned" to "play" sports such as soccer and ping-pong, and are very dexterous at conducting complex operations on humans in hospitals. We can hardly imagine how robots will continue to evolve and how robots will bring the world to us in the future.

The new 25-euro coin is issued with a maximum mintage of 65,000 pieces and is struck in brilliant uncirculated quality only. It has a diametre of 34mm and contains 9 grams of 90% fine silver in the outer ring. The core consists of 7.15 grams of 99.8% pure niobium. Each coin is encapsulated, boxed and accompanied by a numbered Certificate of Authenticity.

The Royal Mint Announce Collector Coins To Celebrate Royal Wedding of Prince William and Kate Middleton

2011-03-02T15:20:00.000-08:00

February 21, 2011 - The Royal Mint has released information on the soon-to-be-issued commemorative £5 platinum, gold and silver coins, struck to high quality standards, to celebrate the royal wedding of Prince William and Catherine Middleton, to be held on April 29, 2011.

Great Britain 2011 £5 Royal Wedding BU

From The Royal Mint press release:

As excitement builds across the UK and internationally ahead of the April wedding of Prince William and Catherine Middleton, Buckingham Palace have confirmed the issue of an official UK £5 coin to celebrate this historic event. It is our great privilege to announce that the Royal Mint will be producing this coin, the only official UK coin that will be launched to commemorate the Royal Wedding. The proposed coin design is currently with The Royal Household for approval. Once the design is approved, it will be revealed. It will then be presented at a meeting of the UK Privy Council on 16th March, at which point it will pass into law to become official UK tender, and be confirmed as the only official UK coin to commemorate this Great British event.

Great Britain 2011 £5 Royal Wedding Silver Proof

Sure to be the most popular of the coins released for this special event will be the easily affordable £5 Brilliant Uncirculated crown, struck in cupro-nickel and housed in an official informative presentation folder, with a mintage of 250,000.

Great Britain 2011 £5 Royal Wedding Gold Proof

Other coins to be issued are the £5 Silver Proof Crown with a mintage of 50,000, £5 Fine Gold-Plated Silver Crown with a mintage of 7500, £5 Silver Piedfort Crown with a mintage of 3000, £5 Gold Proof Crown with a mintage of 3000 and the £5 Platinum Piedfort Crown with a tiny worldwide mintage of just 200 issues - so there is a Royal Wedding commemorative release to suit any budget. All coins are the official release of Great Britain.

The official release of these memorable commemorative coins will be in late March.

Germany Issue First Silver Coin for 2011 - Dedicated to Composer Franz Liszt

2011-02-27T17:13:00.000-08:00

February 3, 2011 - The German Mint at Karlsruhe (G) has issued the first in the country's 10 euro commemorative silver coin programme for 2011, with it's dedication to Hungarian composer and virtuoso pianist Franz Liszt and the 200th anniversary of his birth.

Germany 2011 10€ Franz Liszt Silver Proof

Franz Liszt (1811 - 1886) was a 19th century Hungarian composer, virtuoso pianist and teacher. Liszt became renowned throughout Europe during the 19th century for his great skill as a performer. He was said by his contemporaries to have been the most technically advanced pianist of his age and perhaps the greatest pianist of all time. He was also an important and influential composer, a notable piano teacher, a conductor who contributed significantly to the modern development of the art, and a benefactor to other composers and performers, notably Richard Wagner, Hector Berlioz, Camille Saint-Saëns, Edvard Grieg and Alexander Borodin.

As a composer, Liszt was one of the most prominent representatives of the "Neudeutsche Schule" ("New German School"). He left behind an extensive and diverse body of work, in which he influenced his forward-looking contemporaries and anticipated some 20th-century ideas and trends. Some of his most notable contributions were the invention of the symphonic poem, developing the concept of thematic transformation as part of his experiments in musical form and making radical departures in harmony.

In February 1847, Liszt played in Kiev. There he met the Princess Carolyne zu Sayn-Wittgenstein, who dominated most of the rest of his life. The following year, Liszt took up a long-standing invitation of Grand Duchess Maria Pavlovna of Russia to settle at Weimar, where he had been appointed Kapellmeister Extraordinaire in 1842, remaining there until 1861. During this period he acted as conductor at court concerts and on special occasions at the theatre. He gave lessons to a number of pianists, including the great virtuoso Hans von Bülow, who married Liszt's daughter Cosima in 1857 (years later, she would marry Richard Wagner). He also wrote articles championing Berlioz and Wagner. Finally, Liszt had ample time to compose and during the next 12 years revised or produced those orchestral and choral pieces upon which his reputation as a composer mainly rests. His efforts on behalf of Wagner, who was then an exile in Switzerland, culminated in the first performance of Lohengrin in 1850.

The reverse design features a stylised portrait of Franz Liszt with his signature below and the silhouette of a piano in the background. Around the top of the coin is the inscription for the commemoration, with the years of Liszt's life at the bottom.

The obverse carries the Eagle motif, State Emblem of the German Republic, fashioned in a style complimentary to the obverse design. Inscriptions for the denomination, country and year of issue, as well as the "G" mintmark signifying the coin being struck at the Karlsruhe Mint in Germany, are also found on this side.

Each silver coin is struck in .625 silver (as are all the 2011 German silver commemoratives due to the global increase in silver prices) and is available in both proof and Brilliant Uncirculated quality. As of writing this article Euro Collections International currently stocks the Proof version only.

Austrian Mint Release Imperial Botanist Nikolaus Jacquin Silver Coin

2011-02-25T03:15:00.000-08:00

February 23, 2011 - The Austrian Mint has issued a 20-euro silver coin celebrating the life of explorer and Imperial Botanist Nicholas von Jacquin. This coin is part of the European series, which includes eight countries that are issuing a coin this year as part of the Europa Star program.

Austria 2011 20€ Nicholas von Jacquin Silver Proof

Jacquin was born in Leiden, in the Netherlands, in 1727. On the recommendation of his personal physician Gerard van Sweiten, also a Dutchman, he was invited by Emperor Franz I, husband of Empress Maria Theresa, to come to the Habsburg Empire and work as a botanist.

One of the earliest expeditions overseas of the Imperial Navy took place during 1755 to 1759, and carried Jacquin to the Caribbean, the Antilles, Venezuela and Columbia on the instructions of Emperor Franz. Jacquin brought back animals and plants for the zoo and botanic gardens at the Imperial palace of Schönbrunn.

In 1768 Jacquin was appointed professor of botany and chemistry and became director of the botanical gardens at the University of Vienna. Under the generous patronage of Francis I and the direction of Jacquin, the gardens of Schönbrunn grew to be the most celebrated in all of Europe during this era. In 1774 he was knighted for his comprehensive contributions.

The obverse of the coin depicts a three-quarter portrait of Jacquin in the upper left half of the design field, along with a detailed depiction of the plant, iris variegata, one of his many discoveries, to the right. Beneath the name of the botanist “Jacquin,” is the privy mark of the Europa Star program. This side of the coin also depicts the country of issue “Republik Oesterreich,” Republic of Austria, the face value of 20 euros, as well as the year of issue “2011.” The obverse was designed by mint engraver Helmut Andexlinger.

The reverse of the coin shows Jacquin on a tropical island in the Caribbean. Large banana leaves and a parrot are seen on the left side of the design. A tall-masted sailing ship can be seen at anchor in the background. Jacquin is depicted writing his notes on some of the many plant species he identified, some of which no longer exist today. Chief mint engraver Thomas Pesendorfer designed the reverse of the coin.

Each silver coin is encapsulated and presented in official Austrian Mint box packaging with a numbered Certificate of Authenticity.

Samson & Delilah Silver Coin Issued As Part Of "Famous Love Stories" Series

2011-02-10T16:20:00.000-08:00

Mennica Polska have released the second in their endearing silver coin series dedicated to Famous Love Stories. The series, which kicked off with the most classic love story of all, that of Romeo and Juliet, moves to the Bible, and a tale of love and betrayal in the tragic coupling of Samson and Delilah.

Niue 2010 $1 Samson And Delilah Silver Proof

The story of Samson and Delilah comes from the Old Testament, Book of Judges, and tells the story of Samson, a Herculean figure granted tremendous strength by God to combat his enemies and perform heroic feats unachievable by ordinary humans. Naturally this brought him many enemies, who would stop at nothing to get the secret to his power. As the story tells it, Samson meets Delilah and falls in love with her, but Samson's enemies entice Delilah with a horde of silver coins to discover the secret of his great strength. Delilah quizzes Samson, who at first gives playful, confounding answers, but his trust of Delilah gets the better of him and eventually he tells her that it is his hair that holds the key to his power. Delilah then gets a servant to cut all Samson's hair while he sleeps, which takes away his strength, allowing him to be captured.

This beautifully struck silver proof features a stylised design of Samson with head shaved, and Delilah beside him. The obverse carries the common design for the series.

Available now from Euro Collections International, the Samson & Delilah silver coin is supplied in a capsule with Certificate of Authenticity.

2011 Berlin World Money Fair - January 28-30 - Update

2011-01-30T15:14:00.000-08:00

January 30, 2011: The 2011 World Money Fair in Berlin is wrapping up but it's been an exciting time for manufactures, distributors and collectors alike. As with previous shows, the world of numismatics converges on Berlin for a few days each year to either show their wares and snap up early orders for some exciting new (and old) coins. Every collecting niche has their own big convention, and for numismatics it doesn't get any bigger than Berlin.

2011 marks the 40th anniversary of the World Money Fair being held in Berlin, widely regarded as the centre of international numismatics. Each year a different country is chosen to be Guest of Honor at the event, with this years recipient being Poland and the Mennica Polska. The Mint of Poland has produced many splendid collector gold and silver coins throughout the years, as well as their affordable nordic gold selection. They have been successful in winning a number of awards for their designs, a testament to the fine work of the Warsaw sculptors - so it was an exciting prospect to have Poland as Guest of Honor, with a wide array of upcoming numismatic releases on display.

The Berlin World Money Fair is a must-visit event for any serious numismatist, whether it is something to do every year or just once in a lifetime, it is a truly captivating spectacle that any conscientious collector would revel in. With thousands of people from around the world converging on Berlin over the weekend, year after year the Berlin World Money Fair has grown to become the largest event of its type in the world - and specially so, as it brings together the Mints who produce the coins, distributors who for a number of mints are their only connection to selling coins to the public, and the regular collector themselves, who have come to see what the world of numismatics looks like for the new year.

Euro Collections International has a presence at each Berlin World Money Fair through being the official distributor of the Austrian Mint, although the show is generally used as a meeting point for other world mints and distributors, to see new numismatic items and to place orders. Below are some exciting up coming releases, images provided by the Krause Publications Numismatics Facebook page. We had an excellent and productive time at this years show, with plenty of new orders placed. If you were there we hope you did too and if you couldn't make it, well there's always next year. We look forward to presenting some exciting new release world coins to our collector friends in 2011.

The Berlin World Money Fair is also used to officially celebrate the winners of the Krause Publications Coin of the Year awards. The awards, honouring numismatic achievements for coins released in 2009, are a special highlight on the World Money Fair calendar, attended by many of the world's mints. The winners were announced late last year but Berlin provides the perfect location for a special ceremony to hand out awards and congratulate recipients. The winners of this years awards are as follows:

Most Historically Significant Coin
100 Tenge Silver Attila the Hun
Kazakhstan Mint

Best Contemporary Event Coin
10 Euro Silver Fall of the Berlin Wall
Monnaie de Paris

Best Gold Coin
100 Rand White Rhino
South African Mint

Best Silver Coin
20 Dollars Crystal Snowflake
Royal Canadian Mint

Best Crown Coin
20 Euro Silver Peace and Security Coin
Mint of Finland

Best Trade Coin
2 Euro Bi-metallic First Year of Euro Issuance
National Bank of Slovakia

Most Popular Coin
10 Euro Silver Basilisk of Vienna
Austrian Mint

Most Artistic Coin
300 Dollars Gold Native American Summer Moon Mask
Royal Canadian Mint

Most Innovative Coin
2 Pounds Silver-Crystal Life of the Sea Turtle
Pobjoy Mint

Most Inspirational Coin
10 Zlotych Silver World War II Polish Underground
Mint of Poland

We hope to see you there next year!

Innovative "Scent of Australia - Eucalyptus" Silver Coin Released

2011-01-04T17:53:00.000-08:00

January 4, 2010: Released today by issuing authority of the Cook Islands, this exciting new silver coin is the first of it's kind to capture the "bush scent" of Australia. Synonymous with the imagery of the rugged Australian outback, the Eucalyptus, or Gum tree, is as iconic with the land down under as Kangaroos and Crocodile Dundee - and now the intrinsic scent of the bush has been captured on a beautifully designed silver coin!

Cook Islands 2011 $5 Scent of Australia Eucalyptus Silver Coin

This eye-catching silver coin has been created using state-of-the-art minting technology, to not only enhance the coin with vibrant colour, but also with the added innovation of a "rub and sniff" feature, producing the glorious aroma of the Australian bush.

The design on the reverse of the coin shows the iconic Koala, native to the Australian bush, struck into stunning sterling silver in Brilliant Uncirculated quality. In the background, captivating in realistic colour pad printing, is a section of Eucalyptus tree, with leaves and red nut flowers showing. The obverse carried the effigy of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, together with the country and year of issue and nominal face value.

Each Scent of Australia Eucalyptus silver coin is presented in a high quality jewel case and full-colour outer box, accompanied by a numbered Certificate of Authenticity.

Israel Releases Tower of David First Gold Bullion Coin

2010-12-27T19:21:00.000-08:00

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!

2010-12-08T14:18:00.000-08:00

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

2010-11-29T14:12:00.000-08:00

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

2010-11-08T17:09:00.000-08:00

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

2010-10-28T18:58:00.000-07:00

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

2010-10-27T19:09:00.000-07:00

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

2010-10-27T17:14:00.000-07:00

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

2010-10-21T18:37:00.000-07:00

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

2010-10-14T18:54:00.000-07:00

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!

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

2010-09-26T23:25:00.000-07:00

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.

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

2010-09-21T22:44:00.000-07:00

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

2010-09-13T23:00:00.000-07:00

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!

2010-09-06T19:14:00.000-07:00

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!

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.

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!

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

2010-08-25T20:30:00.000-07:00

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!

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

2010-08-24T16:12:00.000-07:00

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

2010-08-16T16:31:00.000-07:00

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?

2010-08-15T21:59:00.000-07:00

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

2010-08-10T18:16:00.000-07:00

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!

2010-08-03T17:11:00.000-07:00

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

2010-07-28T16:01:00.000-07:00

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

2010-07-27T22:59:00.001-07:00

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

2010-07-27T22:17:00.000-07:00

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!

2010-06-15T18:49:00.000-07:00

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!

2010-06-08T21:51:00.000-07:00

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

2010-05-12T13:16:00.000-07:00

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)

Perth Mint Release 5th Coin In Highly Popular Deadly And Dangerous Series!

2010-04-20T07:39:00.000-07:00

A spectacular addition to one of Australia’s hottest series, the latest issue in the Australian Deadly & Dangerous Series has just been unveiled! A typically superb illustration of The Perth Mint’s unrivalled full colour minting techniques, this vivid new legal tender collector coin pays homage to one of the world’s most lethal creatures – the Eastern Brown Snake.

Tuvalu 2010 $1 Easter Brown Snake 1oz Silver Proof

Fast and aggressive, the Eastern Brown Snake is also extremely poisonous. Indeed, the venom of the Eastern Brown Snake is said to be the second most toxic of all land snakes worldwide! Exceptionally dangerous, the bite of this species of snake can cause death in minutes, with even a young Eastern Brown Snake potentially able to deliver enough venom in a single bite to kill 20 adults. Growing to an average length of 1.4m, but known to grow up to 2.4m, the aggression of this lethal reptile has been captured perfectly upon the broad, 40.6mm flan of this unique, exclusive 1oz .999 fi ne Silver Proof.

Sure to catch the eye of full-colour coin collectors worldwide, the 2010 $1 Eastern Brown Snake Colour 1oz Silver Proof is essential for those who own any of the coins in the Deadly & Dangerous Series – all of which have sold out. Rarely offered, the soaring market values of the 2006 Redback Spider $1 (now A$1,000+), 2007 Great White Shark $1 (A$170+), 2008 Blue-Ringed Octopus $1 (A$200+) and 2009 Saltwater Crocodile $1 (A$165+) provides a very strong incentive for our clients to strike now – and secure the 2010 Deadly & Dangerous $1 at Official Issue Price!

Distinguished by a dramatic full-colour design of Australia’s lethal Eastern Brown Snake
Tiny worldwide mintage just 5,000 – sell-out assured
Crafted to Proof quality from 1oz of pure .999 silver
Struck by The Perth Mint as official Tuvalu legal tender of One Dollar
Beautifully presented within a high-gloss timber case with a numbered Certificate of Authenticity

Remarkable Antiqued Silver Coin Pair Paying Tribute To Barack Obama And Martin Luther King Jr.

2010-04-12T11:51:00.000-07:00

Issued under the authority of the Cook Islands, this unique pair of antiqued silver coins pays tribute to two men who have come to stand for change in the United States - focusing on their most important speeches for social cooperation.

Cook Islands 2010 $5 Barack Obama & Martin Luther King Silver BU Pair

Under the banner of "Freedom - Equality - Unity" the coins pay respectful tribute to the current President of the United States, Barack Obama, and the iconic leader of the African American civil rights movement, Martin Luther King Jr. Each man, in his own way, has become an important figure for change in the United States, coming to symbolise the unity of a nation proud of it's dedication to work towards freedom and equality of all people regardless of race or religion.

This unique pair of coins each feature an iconic portrait of the men, designed in such a way as to almost mirror one another, much as their progress toward change has been a reflection of one another. Adding to the innovation, the design of Barack Obama is created in standard relief while Martin Luther King's portrait has been struck incuse, so as to be below the surface of the coin. Known famously for his "I have a dream" speech on August 28, 1963, as well his unswerving dedication to the emancipation of African Americans under an oppressive society, Martin Luther King Jr would surely have seen the election of President Obama in 2008 (45 years later) as a great step forward in equal rights. It is with that focus on unity that this pair of coins were produced. Above each portrait is the name and a quote from their most iconic speeches.

The coins have undergone a special minting process, giving them an "antiqued" appearance that adds quality and dignity to the pair of coins, each struck from 25 grams of 92.5% sterling silver.

The pair are presented in a special timber lift-top box and accompanied by a Certificate of Authenticity, confirming the strictly limited worldwide mintage of just 2500 pairs.

Royal Spanish Mint Honour 2010 EU Presidency With Commemorative Silver Coin

2010-04-08T17:09:00.000-07:00

The celebrate the country of Spain being appoined as joint president of the EU in 2010, the Royal Spanish Mint have produced this lasting tribute coin struck in high quality silver proof.

Spain 2010 10€ EU Presidency Silver Proof

The presidency is in some regards executed in a shared manner in order to cope with the rather short six month term of the presidency. Three successive presidents forming a "triple-shared presidency" work together over a 1.5 year period to accomplish a common agenda by the current president simply continuing the work of the previous "lead-president" after the end of his/her term. This process also allows new member states to hold the presidency sooner, and at the same time the triplets are arranged so that, in each of them, there are both new and old member states, with the assumption that the old member states will pass their experience to the co-presidency new-members. Spain will share EU presidential duties with both Belgium and Hungary over the 18 month period from January 2010 until June 2011.

The reverse bears a central depiction of a column with interlaced lines symbolizing a coming together of flags. The area above this features the logotype created for the Spain/Belgium/Hungary team presidency, shaped with the lower-case letters "eu". Around the rim of the coin to the left is the commemoration inscription, while to the right is the nominal face value of 10 Euro and the 12 stars of the EU in a spiral pattern. The obverse carries the familiar effigy of His Majesty King Juan Carlos, together with his name and title and the year of issue.

This historic silver coin release is presented in the official blue Royal Spanish Mint jewel case and is accompanied with an individually numbered Certificate of Authenticity attesting to the limited mintage of just 10,000 coins issued worldwide.

Perth Mint Issues Prestigious Gold Coin Tribute To Iconic Australian Bushranger

2010-04-08T03:01:00.000-07:00

The ultimate tribute to Australia’s world famous bushranger, this flawless new legal tender $25 coin unites the latest in minting technology with the beauty, purity and luxury of the world’s favourite precious metal. As exclusive as it is eye-catching, the Ned Kelly $25 1/4oz Gold Proof is destined to be one of the ‘Coins of 2010’.

Tuvalu 2010 $25 Ned Kelly 1/4oz Gold Proof

A unique blend of history, quality and innovation, the Ned Kelly $25 1/4oz Gold Proof represents a glowing tribute to the expertise of the precious metal specialists at the Perth Mint. Demonstrating the Mint’s mastery of full-colour technology, the 22.6mm flan of this unique legal tender type is graced with a superb design. Contrasting against the pure, lustrous .9999 gold, the striking portrayal of Ned is complemented perfectly by a design of the helmet from the armour suit Ned wore at the final showdown at Glenrowan.

With the Mint striking just 1,000 examples for worldwide distribution, it will be a race against time to own one. Certain to be pursued by gold collectors, as well as those seeking a prestigious tribute to Ned in the 130th anniversary year of his death, the only question is when – not if – this Australian made Gold Proof will sell out.

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In 2010, we mark the 130th Anniversary of the death of Ned Kelly. Although opinion will always be divided – to some a working class hero, to others a criminal – no one has captured the public imagination quite like Australia’s most notorious bushranger.

Involved in cattle rustling in the 1870s, Ned’s transition from minor criminal to fully-fledged bushranger was triggered when he and brother Dan were accused of the attempted murder of a trooper in 1878. With a price on their heads, Ned and Dan took to the bush, where Joe Byrne and Steve Hart soon joined them.

The reward for each Kelly Gang member was raised to £1,000 after the outlaws confronted a search party at Stringybark Creek, shooting Sergeant Kennedy and Constables Lonigan and Scanlon dead. That reward rose to an incredible £2,000 per man following the bank robberies in Euroa, Victoria and Jerilderie, NSW.

The gang then disappeared from view for over a year, until June 1880. Killing former friend Aaron Sherritt in revenge for a perceived betrayal, the gang set out for Glenrowan, taking 70 people hostage in the hotel. It would be here that the Kellys’ last stand was to take place, and where the gang’s famous suits of armour would make their one and only appearance in battle.

With Joe Byrne killed by police, and Steve Hart and Dan Kelly committing suicide, Ned was the sole survivor of the gun battle, and was sent to Melbourne to stand trial. Sentenced to death for the murder of Lonigan at Stringybark Creek, and with pleas to have the sentence commuted ignored, Ned was led to the gallows at Melbourne Gaol on 11 November 1880 – exactly 130 years ago.

New Zealand Issues Impressive Maori Heitiki One Ounce Gold Coin

2010-04-05T02:01:00.000-07:00

New Zealand is known around the globe to be home to some of the world’s most spectacular and picturesque natural treasures, and now to add to this, they have created one of the most awe-inspiring numismatic treasures of today – the 2010 $10 Maori Art Heitiki 1oz Gold Proof!

New Zealand 2010 $10 Maori Art Heitiki 1oz Gold Proof

Forged from 1oz of .9999 pure gold and produced to the highest standard of craftsmanship, the $10 Heitiki Gold coin is the very definition of New Zealand ‘taonga’ (treasure). Flawlessly struck to proof quality, the massive 40.6mm diameter gold reverse depicts an incredibly detailed Heitiki symbol, framed by two elegant Huia bird feathers, with the obverse containing the traditional
portrait of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II.

What truly sets this wondrous coin apart from all others is its one-of-a-kind packaging. Each 1oz Maori Art Heitiki Gold Proof is offered in a specially crafted ‘waka huia’ (treasure box) that has been uniquely designed by Warren McGrath, master carver to the Maori King! The waka huia case features a carved handle at each end in the shape of a ‘kooruru’ (owl face) and the lid is beautifully adorned with a special ‘rau-tawa’ engraved design which symbolises the bounty that is gathered from ‘Te wao nui a Tane’ (New Zealand native forest). Made from 45,000-year-old New Zealand swamp kauri, each case is unique in its appearance and perfectly reflects the premium status of this precious gold coin. The overall presentation is completed by the accompaniment of an innovative and individually numbered Authentication Booklet, detailing the intriguing stories surrounding the Heitiki and exclusive waka huia packaging.

A natural successor and partner to the New Zealand 2004 Pukaki Gold Proof – sold out in a matter of weeks and now close to impossible to find – this truly special coin has a strictly limited mintage of just 500 coins worldwide! With a sell-out all but assured, Downies has offered only its top customers the opportunity to secure what is sure to be one of this year's most memorable releases.

Austrian Mint Release New "Tales and Legends" Silver Coin

2010-03-29T08:38:00.000-07:00

April 14, 2010. Continuing one of their newest and already most popular series', the Austrian Mint has released the 3rd "Tales and Legends" silver coin, being dedicated to the story of the Discovery of the Erzberg (Iron Mountain). The new coin recounts the folktale surrounding the discovery of one of the most important iron ore sources in Europe still in use today, the "Erzberg".

Austria 2010 10€ Discovery Of Erzberg Silver Coin

In the southeast of Austria (near Graz) there once was a very deep dark grotto filled with cold water in which a merman lived. During the day the merman would slip out of the water and warm himself in the sun. The people of the area knew about the merman but were afraid of him because he was enormous and so unusual that most stayed away.

However, legend has it that if you caught a merman, in order to gain his freedom he had to grant you a wish. A few did try but most were afraid of this strange looking merman, which seemed to be too heavy and slippery to catch.

One day, two rather entrepreneurial chaps placed food and drink along the grotto and hoped the sun would appear, all to entice the merman to come to the surface. After several days and nights of waiting, the sun did appear from behind the dark rain clouds and so eventually did the merman. The merman enjoyed the treats he found and in the warmth of the sun he fell asleep. He was suddenly jolted out of his sleep, as a massive dark cloak was thrown over him. He could not free himself from the cloak because it was covered with sticky tar.

The men then secured a leash around his neck and tried to drag him to a cave. The merman struggled and howled so eerily loudly that he was heard all over the land, but the men would not release him. The merman begged for his freedom but to no avail.

Finally, the merman offered the men a deal – “Please release me and I will reward you.” This pleased the men very much and they stopped dragging the merman over the rough trail and asked what he was offering.

Thinking for a moment the merman gave the men a choice: “I will give you gold for a year, silver for ten years, or iron forever.”

The men reflected carefully and decided to benefit from iron forever. The merman told them the location of the Erzberg Mountain that was filled with iron and so they then released him. He slipped back into his grotto and was never seen again. The mountain and its riches continue to be mined to today.

The reverse of the coin depicts two intense-looking men creeping up on a merman armed with a tar-covered cloak held between their hands. The sleeping merman is loosely holding a trident spear in its webbed right hand. The tail of the merman is seen in the scaly body form ending in its partially exposed fin depicted as a sideways “V” shape in lower right of the design along the rocky shoreline. The words “Entdeckung des Erzeberges”, the discovery of the Erzberg, are located along the top edge of the coin.

The obverse of the coin shows a scene of iron ore mining in the Middle Ages. On the left side of the design a miner pushes a cartload of ore out of the mineshaft, while on the right side another miner breaks the up the ore with a pick and hammer. In the background can be seen the distinctive shape (step- like) of the iron mountain, Erzberg. This side of the coin also depicts the country of issue, “Republik Oesterreich”, as well as the 2010 year-of-issue and the face value of 10 Euros.

The 10 euro silver coin is struck in 925 fine silver, and is available in either proof with a maximum mintage of 40,000 pieces, or in brilliant uncirculated finish, with a maximum mintage of 30,000 coins. The proof version comes in an official Austrian Mint box with a numbered certificate of authenticity. The brilliant uncirculated coin is sold in a colorful and informative bilingual (German and English) blister pack.

A collector album resembling a "classic" book of tales is also available for separate purchase. It is designed to accommodate the complete “Legends and Tales of Austria” series. The interior of the album will hold all six proof coins in capsules on the right side and the certificates of authenticity as well as the promotional brochure on the left.

The series, "Tales and Legends in Austria", will continue in October of this year with a coin marking the capture of Charlemagne in Salzburg, who according to legend slept for several centuries under a mountain near Salzburg.

Austrian Mint Unveils 2010 Issue In Popular Niobium Silver Coin Series

2010-03-01T02:13:00.000-08:00

March 10, 2010: The Austrian Mint releases the latest in their series of eye-catching commemorative 25 euro coins, blending the elegance of fine silver with the beauty of coloured niobium. This is the 8th coin in what is undoubtedly the Austrian ints moist successful series, with dedicated collector to part-time numismatic enthusiast all clammering to get their hands on this stunning series.

Austria 2010 25€ Renewable Energy Silver Niobium BU

The reason for such demand would have to be the sheer unparalleled quality of the coins themselves, with the intricate designs we have come to expect from the talented craftsmen at the Mint, coupled with the extraordinary detail in the strike of each coin. The finest example of numismatic quality on the market today, there is no doubt!

The theme of the 2010 silver/niobium coin is renewable energy, a subject perhaps more topical than any other on the planet today. From the Austrian Mint:

Every aspect of our modern world is powered by some form of energy. The global goal for renewable and cleaner energy grows, as world’s natural energy resources are limited and rapidly dwindling. Continuing research and development as well as growing support by legislative and financial entities are all working together to advance the use of renewable clean energy for generations to come.

More and more individuals, corporations and governments are aware of the earth’s limited resources and our collective futures. Clean renewable energy is the way of today and the future. Trillions will be spent on further developing and harnessing renewable resources known today as well as continuing research into additional sources.

As President Obama proclaimed during his inauguration speech, “We will harness the sun, the winds and the soil to fuel our cars and run our factories.” (January 20, 2009)

On the obverse of the coin, set with the vibrant blue niobium, is the image of a tree, used to represent all the vegetation in the world. Coming out of the tree is a spiral design reflecting the continuous cycle of the world's four elements: Earth, Wind, Water and Fire. These are represented along the spiral as follows: Fire (the sun in the backgroud providing photosynthesis), Wind (the leaves blowing to the ground), Earth (giving the tree nourishment as well as recycling the fallen leaves) and Water (stylised at the bottom of the outer silver ring, allowing the tree to absord nutrients). The design was created by Helmut Andexlinger and inspired by the theme to "represent the living, breathing system of plants". Also on this side, at the top of the outer silver ring, is the inscription for the country of issue and the nominal face value.

The reverse design features a number of the many types of renewable energy that are in use today. In the centre of it all is the Earth, depicted here in the stylised globe towards the background of the image. Each of the renewable energy sources shown here also follow the pattern of the four elements. Here fire is represented by the sun's rays being captured by solar panels and converted into energy, water driving the hydroelectric water turbine, geothermal heat sources of the Earth are recovered as steam (noted in the two arrows on the left side of the design) in which water is pumped into the depths of the earth (the down arrows with the droplets) and then heat and energy return as steam (the up arrow with the wavy line), and wind is converted to energy by the large wind turbine in the upper left of the coin. Inscribed at the bottom of the coin are the words "Erneuerbare Energie” (Renewable
Energy).

Each 25 euro 2010 silver niobium brilliant uncirculated coin is struck on a 34mm flan comprised of an outer ring made from 9 grams of 90% fine silver and a core consisting of 7.15 grams of 99.8% pure niobium. The coin is encapsulated and housed in an official Austrian Mint jewel case and outer box, accompanied by a Certificate of Authenticity confirming the maximum mintage of just 65,000 coins.

Niue Island and Mint of Poland Present Faberge Coronation Egg Silver Coin!

2010-02-26T09:07:00.000-08:00

An inspiring new coin from the Mint of Poland, recognised as among the most innovative, most insightful issuing authorities in Europe, this massive 56.56g Silver Proof pays homage to one of the most famous pieces of jewellery in history – the Faberge Coronation Egg of the last Russian Tsar, Nicholas II.

Niue Island 2010 $2 Faberge Coronation Egg Silver Proof

Symbolising the luxury and extravagance associated with the heyday of European Royalty, the Faberge Coronation Egg was made in 1897 to honour the official investiture of Nicholas II as Tsar of Russia in 1896. A breathtaking combination of gold, diamonds and intricate enamelling, it is considered a masterpiece of the jeweller’s art. One of a range of Eggs created for the Romanov Dynasty by Peter Carl Faberge, the Egg opened to reveal a superb miniature of the ‘Gold Coach’ – built in 1793 for Catherine the Great and used in the 1896 Coronation procession.

Portraying the Faberge Coronation Egg upon it’s broad 41.6mm x 55.6mm elliptical flan, united with a depiction of the Gold Coach, this majestic $2 coin will make a fascinating, unique addition to any collection. Crafted to the most rigorous standards, we have been granted an allocation of the 2010 $2 Faberge Coronation Egg Silver Proof as official distributor for the Mint of Poland – but our stocks won’t last for long!

Ukraine Issues "International Year of Astronomy" Commemorative Coin

2010-01-11T23:46:00.000-08:00

October 14, 2009: Approaching the end of 2009 comes this cupro-nickel brilliant uncirculated coin issued by the National Bank of Ukraine to commemorate the International Year of Astronomy. The International Year of Astronomy in 2009 coincides with the 400th anniversary of the first recorded astronomical observations with a telescope by Galileo Galilei, as well as the publication of Johannes Kepler's Astronomia nova in the 17th century which details his laws on planetary motion.

Ukraine 2009 5 Hryvnia International Year Of Astronomy BU

Following on from a series of commemorative coins issued throughout the world celebrating the topical theme of space and astronomy, with 2009 also being the 40th anniversary of the first moon walk, the National Bank of Ukraine struck two coins to celebrate this import scientific year. The 100 Hryvnia IYA coin was struck in an impressive 1 kilograms of 99.9% fine silver, on a 100mm flan. The more affordable 5 Hryvnia was struck from the familiar composite of cupro-nickel, also known by some as German silver, at a weight of 16.54 grams on a 35mm surface area, with an equally stunning design.

On the reverse is a mixed design featuring elements important to the International Year of Astronomy. In the upper left quarter is the official IYA 2009 logo, featuring two figures looking up into a stylised cosmos. To the right is a portrait of noted Russian philosopher, astrologist, writer and doctor, Yuriy Drohobych, with the years of his life below. In the bottom portion are various objects used in astronomical research. To the left is the inscription "МІЖНАРОДНИЙ РІК АСТРОНОМІЇ" (International year of astronomy). The obverse has, at the top, the inscription "НАЦІОНАЛЬНИЙ БАНК УКРАЇНИ" (National Bank of Ukraine), with the coat of arms in the centre. Below is a composite image symbolizing the Cosmos, with the image of Urania, the patroness of astronomy, one of the nine Muses in the Greek mythology, to the left, with a fragment of a scheme showing the motion of solar system planets to the right. Near the bottom is the year of issue (2009) and the denomination inscribed within a stylised ribbon. The coin is supplied in a protective plastic flip.

The International Year of Astronomy commemorative coins have generated plenty of interest throughout the world, mostly due to the popular theme of space and the stunningly detailed designs. Euro Collections International has a special section dedicated to displaying all the coins issued to mark 2009 as the International Year of Astronomy, and you can see our showcase by clicking here.

Fiji Issues Commemorative Silver Bullion Coin Honouring The Hawksbill Turtle (Taku)

2010-01-05T14:10:00.000-08:00

Authorised by the Fijian government, this silver bullion coin commemorating the Hawksbill sea turtle, or Taku as it is known locally, has been released for 2010 and has captured the interest of collectors of world bullion and striking silver issues with an ocean-theme.

Fiji 2010 $2 Hawksbill Turtle Taku 1oz Silver BU

While Taku is one of four sea turtle species that are in abundance amongst the islands of Fiji, it is listed as critically endangered throughout the rest of the world. The Hawksbill turtle, belonging to the family Cheloniidae, is the only species in the Eretmochelys genus, while there is an Atlantic and an Indo-Pacific subspecies. The Hawksbill's appearance is similar to that of other marine turtles; a generally flattened body shape, protective carapace, and flipper-like arms that are adapted for swimming in the open ocean. Where Taku differs from other sea turtles is by its sharp, curving beak and the saw-like appearance of its shell margins.

Because of human fishing practices, Hawksbill populations around the world are threatened with extinction and the turtle has been classified as critically endangered by the World Conservation Union. Several countries, such as China and Japan, have valued hunting Hawksbill turtles for their flesh, which is considered a delicacy. Hawksbill turtle shells are the primary source of tortoise shell material, used for decorative purposes. By the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species, it is illegal to capture and to trade in Hawksbill turtles and products derived from them in many nations.

Featured on the reverse of this bullion issue is an eye-catching, stylised depiction of Taku swimming in its natural habitat. Its name is inscribed towards the top of the coin, while the coin specifications are noted near the bottom. The obverse carries an effigy of Queen Elizabeth II together with the country and year of issue, and the nominal face value.

Each 2010 $2 Fiji Taku bullion coin is struck to brilliant uncirculated quality from 31.10 grams of 99.9% pure silver, with the turtle design perfectly detailed on the 40.70mm flan. The coin is supplied within a sealed plastic flip in a small folder that doubles as a Certificate of Authenticity.

Introducing The Somalia 2009 Tutankhamun Treasures Gold-Plated Proof Collection

2009-12-17T16:55:00.000-08:00

Celebrating the timeless iconography of Ancient Egypt, the Commonwealth Mint in conjunction with the government of the Federal Republic of Somalia, has released the 2009 "Treasures of Tutankhamun" 5-coin, gold-plated collection. This commemorative proof quality coin set, enhanced with dazzling colour, is a stunning tribute to the young Pharaoh and the artifacts found within his tomb. It is actually the third time the collection has been released in as many years, however the 2009 issue steps up the value and quality with an eye-catching display case and inclusion of a statue of the Egyptian God, Anubis.

Somalia 2009 250 Shillings Tutankhamun Treasures Gold-Plated Proof Collection

Inspired by the treasures found in the tomb of Tutankhamun, which were famously exhibited around the world between 1972 and 1979, each of the 5 coins in the collection features a design of one of the artifacts found amongst the young Pharaoh's possessions. In 2007 the treasures were once again put on tour and to coincide with that the first set of Tutankhamun Treasures coins were released. For 3 years now the collection has been offered, each time the same stunning designs are put on show in high quality proof condition, enhanced with vibrant colour and layered in the world's most favorite precious metal.

The five reverse designs are:

1. The magnificent Gold Mask of Tutankhamun
2. The golden statue of the god Ptah
3. The golden statue of the falcon-headed god Horus
4. The large Scarab Necklace for Tutankhamun to wear across his chest
5. The protective powers of the Udjat Eye

The common obverse features the cartouche of Tutankhamun surrounded by the inscription "THE TREASURES OF TUTANKHAMUN", with the denomination and year of issue below, and in the side panels a representation of the young king seated.

Somalia 2009 250 Shillings Tutankhamun Treasures Gold-Plated Proof Collection

What separates this set from the collections of previous years is the eye-catching way in which it is presented. the five 38mm proof coins are housed in a high-quality "tomb-style" presentation box, complete with hieroglyphs molded into the outer surface. Lifting the lid shows the elegant interior, with the coins nestled in satin-like fabric lining. Completing the collection for 2009 is the addition of a beautifully crafted replica statue of the famed jackal-headed Egyptian God, Anubis. The statue itself measures an impressive 190mm, and is shown holding a staff. The collections is topped off by a Certificate of Authenticity.

Belarus Release Latest In Fairy Tales Series Of "Antiqued" Silver Coins

2009-11-26T20:55:00.000-08:00

September, 2009: Struck at the Poland Mint (Mennica Polska) and released through the National Bank of Belarus is the latest in the superb series of silver coins dedicated to famous fairy tales from around the world. This coin, the first and perhaps only to be released in 2009, is the 10th coin in the series and pays tribute to the story of The Nutcracker.

Belarus 2009 20R Nutcracker Fairy Tale Silver UNC

Written in 1816 by Ernst Theodor Wilhelm Hoffmann (Better known as his pen name E.T.A. Hoffmann (Ernst Theodor Amadeus Hoffmann)) and originally entitled "The Nutcracker and the Mouse King", this classic fairy tale from Germany tells the story of Marie, a twelve year old girl who is given a Nutcracker doll on Christmas. In the night the Nutcracker doll comes to life and does battle with the evil Mouse King. Little does Marie know that the Nutcracker doll is in fact a handsome young man who was cursed. Her godfather, Drosselmeyer, tells her the story of the Mouse Queen, who set a curse upon the King's daughter after the king arranged for mouse traps to be made which killed her children. It took many years to find a cure for the curse but eventually they did, with the help of Drosselmeyer's nephew, who broke the curse on the Princess but accidentally had it fall upon him, turning him into a Nutcracker doll.

Later, the Nutcracker asks Marie for a sword with which he defeats the Mouse King and takes Marie off to a magical doll land. Eventhough her parents don't believe her, she pledges her love to the Nutcracker doll and the curse is broken, with Drosselmeyer's nephew appearing as a handsome young man once again.

Famously, beautiful fable was turned into a ballet by Russian composer Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky and choreographers Marius Petipa and Lev Ivanov, in 1892. It has become one of Tchaikovsky's most famous compositions, and one of the most popular ballets in the world.

The reverse design shows imagery from the story of The Nutcracker, with the doll itself charging towards the mouse army with sword raised. Seem below in mirroed form is the handsome young nephew. Marie is to the right in front of a stylised Christmas tree with her eyes closed. Set within the hat of the Nutcracker is a glittering green zircon crystal. The inscription for "Nutcracker" is in the bottom left. The obverse, common to all coins in the Fairy Tales series, shows a young boy and girl sitting upon a crescent moon and reading from an open book. Around them is the night sky filled with stars. Around the top of the coin is the inscription for "Republic of Belarus" with the State Emblem in the middle. Below is the inscription for "Twenty Roubles" and the year of issue, 2009.

The coin is struck from 26.15 grams of 92.5% silver (total weight 28.28 grams) on a 38.61mm flan. To give the coin an "antiqued" appearance a special technique of oxidizing has been employed and the coin is supplied in a capsule for protection. Only 25,000 of these coins have been struck for worldwide distribution.

Also available in the Belarus Fairy Tale Series:

2008 Turandot	2007 Alice Through The Looking Glass
2007 Alice In Wonderland	2006 One Thousand And One Nights
2006 Twelve Months	2005 The Little Prince
2005 The Stone Flower	2005 Symon The Musician

Royal Spanish Mint Issue Latest Coins In "Jewels of Numismatics" Series

2009-11-16T21:05:00.000-08:00

The Royal Spanish Mint has released coins in the second series of their "Jewels of Numismatics" program. The coins featured in this series are dedicated to the 400 year old 50 Reales silver, also known as a "Cincuentin" and the 100 Escudos gold coin known as a "Centen". There are 3 coins issued in the series, a 50 euro silver proof honoring the Cincuentin, together with a 100 euro gold-plated silver proof and 20 euro gold proof honoring the Centen.

Spain 2009 50€ Cincuentin Silver Proof

2009 marks the 400th anniversary of the first minting of these historic Spanish coins. Known predominately as the Cincuentín and Centén respectively, the 50 Reales silver and 100 Escudos gold coins are among the most impressive and sought-after in Spanish history. The original coins fetch extremely high prices at auction, with an original 100 gold Escudos recently reaching €800,000 at a Barcelona auction, although it was expected to reach somewhere in the vicinity of €2 million. The original coins were minted at the Real Ingenio de Segovia (Segovia Mint), located in central Spain some 90km north-west of Madrid and founded by King Philip II in 1583. Using new minting machines acquired from his cousin Ferdinand II, Archduke of Further Austria, the mint was able to produce circular coins, with almost perfect edges, very unlike the irregular-edged coins that result from the traditional hammer-striking process of the time. Also typical of the time was the habit of having pieces off gold and silver coins, however with the reeding around the edges of these coins prohibiting that from being done without notice, the coins were accepted at face value without the need to be weighed.

The Cincuentín was the name popularly given to silver coins with a face value of 50 reales, weighing approximately 175 grams and measuring about 76 millimetres in diameter, that were struck in the Real Ingenio during the reigns of the monarchs of the House of Austria, namely Philip III, Philip IV and Charles II. On the obverse was the legend with the name of the monarch, followed by the initials "D.G." (Dei Gratia) surrounding the crowned shield and displaying the coats-of-arms of Castile, Leon, Granada, Aragon, Naples and Sicily, Austria, ancient and modern Burgundy, the Brabant, Portugal, Flanders and the Tyrol. These were flanked by the marks of the assayer and of the mint, the Roman aqueduct at Segovia, and the value "50" in Arabic numbers. The reverse portrayed the arms of Castile and Leon surrounded by the Latin text "Hispaniarum rex" and the year of minting.

Spain 2009 100€ Centen Gold-Plated Silver Proof

The Centén was minted during the period of the last monarchs of the House of Austria, namely Philip III, Philip IV and Charles II. It had a face value of 100 escudos, a diameter something in excess of 70 millimetres, and the established theoretical weight was 359.19 grams. It was utilized as a gift for high-ranking members of the European nobility. The pieces minted were therefore scant, and sometimes amounted to only a single piece per minting session. The original coin weighs 335.5 grams and on the obverse depicts the crowned shield with the coats-of-arms of the Spanish territories, the mint marks, represented by an aqueduct, and the assayer’s mark with the entwined initials AR belonging to Andrés de Pedrera, and the face value 100. The reverse shows the Cross Potent of Jerusalem, an honorary entitlement held by the monarchs of Spain since the time of the Emperor Charles V, and proper to the gold coin.

These two modern issues feature on their reverse full designs taken from the original Spanish coinage. On the obverse are smaller reproductions of the original obverse surrounded with modern elements such as face value, country and year of issue and the logo for the Royal Spanish Mint. The 50 euro silver coin is struck from a massive 168.75 grams of 92.5% sterling silver on a huge 73mm flan, while the 100 euro gold-plated silver proof is struck from 168.88 grams of 92.5% sterling silver on a 73mm flan and coated in fine gold plate. Only 6000 silver and 3000 gold-plated coins have been released to the worldwide market. The coins are both presented in official mint cases with Certificates of Authenticity.

Germany 1972 10 Deutschmark Silver Coins Issued For The Munich Olympic Games

2009-11-12T20:08:00.000-08:00

In 1972 the German mints produced a voluminous series of silver coins to celebrate the games of the 20th Olympiad, held in Munich that same year. Six differently themed coins were produced, in both silver proof and silver uncirculated quality, from 4 of the 5 German Mints (Berlin did not participate), possibly creating, at an extraordinary 48 individual releases, the largest single-focused coin series ever.

The six themes covered were "In Deutschland", "Schleife", "Athletes", "Stadium", "In Munchen" & "Flame". Each theme was offered as a proof quality coin, struck from 15.50 grams of 62.5% silver on a 33mm flan, as well as an uncirculated version with the same specifications.

Germany 1972 10DM Olympics In Deutschland Silver Coin
In Deutschland - The reverse features the spiral symbol used as the logo for the 1972 Olympic Games. Around the rim of the coin is the inscription (in German) "Games of the XX Olympiad 1972 - In Deutschland". The obverse features the Eagle, Emblem for the Federal Republic of Germany, designed using the same style features as the reverse image.

Germany 1972 10DM Olympic Schleife Silver Coin
Schleife - Honoring the municipality of Schleife in northeast Saxony. The word "Schleife" literally means "knot" and a stylised knot of cloth is features on the Reverse of the coin, with the common obverse design of the Eagle styled after it.

Germany 1972 10DM Olympic Athletes Silver Coin
Athletes - The athletes coin design features two kneeling sports people. The male figure is holding a ball or shot-put on his shoulder, while the female beside him is carrying a baton used in relay racing. Again, the obverse, with denomination and country of issue, shows the Federal Republic of Germany Eagle emblem stylised to complement the reverse design.

Germany 1972 10DM Olympic Stadium Silver Coin
Stadium - Paying tribute to the main Olympic Stadium located in Munich's north, as part of Olympiapark Munchen, the reverse design features an aerial view of the outlay of the Olympic stadium grounds, with the main arena off to the left. The obverse Eagle motif is quite a departure from previous designs in the Olympic series.

Germany 1972 10DM Olympics In Munchen Silver Coin
In Munchen - The "In Munchen" coin was released after a backlash created after the initial "In Deutschmark" silver coin was first issued. The complain came from East Germany (DDR, GDR, German Democratic Republic) and as a result this new release was offered featuring the more specific "In Munchen" inscription together with the German Olympic logo.

Germany 1972 10DM Olympic Flame Silver Coin
Flame - The Olympic flame is an important part of the Olympic Games ceremony and it symbolises the theft of fire from the Greek god Zeus by Prometheus. The tradition of having the flame burn for the duration of the games started in Ancient Greece but was discarded until the 1928 games in Amsterdam. It has been used in every games since. The reverse design of this final coin in the 1972 Olympic series features a stylised version of the Olympic flame, with the Olympic rings logo beneath and the German Olympic spiral logo above.

Korean Mint Issues 3rd And Final "Traditional Folk Games" Silver Coin

2009-11-10T19:12:00.000-08:00

October 16, 2009: The Korean Mint has concluded its 3 coin silver proof series dedicated to traditional folk games with this stunning 99.9% precious metal release honoring the tug-of-war game known as Yeongsan Juldarigi (Tug-of-war of Yeongsan). This final coin comes after the 2007 Mask Dance and the 2008 Ganggangsullae (Circle Dance) silver issues.

Korea 2009 20000KRW Tug Of War Of Yeongsan Silver Proof

Yeongsan Juldarigi is given its name on account of the game being performed mainly in the agricultural village of Yeongsan in the South Gyeongsang Province of the Korean Peninsula. The tug-of-war game is listed as one of the Important Intangible Cultural Properties, aspects of intangible culture that the government of South Korea has officially designated for preservation. It is played with members of the village as a way of praying for a plentiful harvest. It is regarded as a farming ceremony originally held on the 15th of the New Year according to the lunar calendar. These days, however, it is held as one of events marking the March 1 Independence Movement.

Yeongsan Juldarigi is played by dividing the village into East and West. The two sides represent man and woman respectively, although the game itself does not pit one gender against the other. Tradition has it that if the West (women) win the tug-of-war then a bountiful harvest will be had that year. The rope is quite large and too thick to pull, so side ropes are attached so that many people can help pull from either side. To stop the rope being cut it is underpinned by a large tree stump called a Binaemok. The leader then rides on the rope and commands order, at which time the tug-of-war begins and local farm music bands add to the fun with upbeat music. You can see video footage of the tug-of-war here (Requires Quicktime)

Featured on the obverse of this coin is the image of people performing the tug-of-war game, with the underpinned Bi-nyeo-mok in the foreground. The leader can be seen standing on the rope commanding his people to pull. On the reverse is a scene from the village involving townspeople carrying the rope in the background, while in front is a music band beating on drums before the beginning of the game. This side also carries the face value of 20,000 Korean Won (KRW), as well as the year of issue.

The coin is presented in an official case.

Spanish Royal Mint Releases 2010 Coin Issue Schedule

2009-11-09T15:55:00.000-08:00

The Spanish Royal Mint have released their coin products program for 2010, with much to get excited about.

January: Starting off the year are coins to celebrating the Spanish Presidency of the European Union. Every six months a new country is selected to take on the role of EU president, with Spain receiving this honor from January to June, 2010. It will be the country's 4th term as president since it joined the EU in 1986. There will be a 10 euro silver proof commemorative coin issued in January, with a 12 euro silver proof following in February.

Also released in January will be Spain's 2 euro commemorative coin, paying tribute to the Mezquita, the Roman Catholic cathedral originally built as a Mosque in the Andalusian city of Córdoba. January also sees the first of the Spanish coin sets being released, with the standard mint set or Brilliant Uncirculated coinage appearing sometime during the month.

February: Apart from the second Spanish EU presidency coin February sees the next release in the popular Architecture series, this time dedicated to the famous Sagrada Família Temple (Temple Expiatori de la Sagrada Família) and the renowned Catalan architect Antoni Gaudí (1852–1926), for which the temple is considered his master-work.

March: The highly prized and sought-after Spanish proof set of coins will be released this month, featuring all 8 circulating euro in the highest quality available by the mint. It is believed that a proof version of the 2 euro Mezquita commemorative coin will also be included in the set.

March will also see a 10 euro silver proof coin issued to celebrate Xacobeo 2010. Año Santo Jacobeo (or in galician language Ano Santo Xacobeo) is the holy year of St. James. It takes place in the year when the 25th of July (day of St. James) is a Sunday. Xacobeo 2010 is born out of a vocation to celebrate the spiritual and
cultural essence of the Camino de Santiago, serving as an international
showcase for knowledge and the arts.

April: This month sees a 10 euro silver proof and a 100 euro gold proof issued to celebrate the approaching FIFA World Cup held in South Africa between 11 June and 11 July, sure to be the biggest sporting event of the year.

May: Continuing the series of brilliant uncirculated coin sets dedicated to various Spanish regions and cities comes two new releases in May. With each set containing the 8 circulating euro currency of Spain together with the 2010 2 euro commemorative, the sets this year are in honor of the central region of La Mancha and the northwest city of León. La Mancha was made famous by Miguel de Cervantes in his book Don Quixote de La Mancha, while Leon has the famed Gothic cathedral Santa María de León.

Also in may there will be the release of a set of coins honoring well-known Spanish painter and printmaker Francisco de Goya. Goya was born in Fuendetodos, Aragón, Spain, in 1746 and is probably best remembered for his 1793–1794 series of 11 small darkly fantastical paintings, although in his life he painted all manner of subjects. The coins honoring the life and work of Goya will be available in 10 euro silver proof, 50 euro silver proof and 200 euro gold proof.

September: After a gap of a few months the mint will release another set of 3 coins in either silver or gold, this time dedicated to "Ancient Visigothic and Carthaginian coins". It's too early to know what designs will be featured on these coins but they will be available as a 10 euro silver proof, 100 euro gold proof and 25 euro gold proof issues.

October: The final releases from Spain in 2010 will be a series of "Historical" coins issued in varying denominations. The coins, struck in silver proof quality, will be dedicated to a number of different countries such as Argentina, Cuba, Portugal, Nicaragua, Mexico, Peru, Paraguay and Guatemala, where the Spanish dialect and culture flourish. The coins will be issued in the denominations of each respective country, with the Argentinian and Cuban coins released as Pesos, the Nicaraguan coin as Cordobas, Portugal as euro, etc.

Austrian Mint Issues New Gold Coin For "Crowns Of The House Of Habsburgs" Series

2009-11-03T20:52:00.000-08:00

November 4, 2009: The Austrian Mint has released the second coin in their series honoring the "Crowns of the House of Habsburgs". This 2009 release, struck to stunning proof quality, is dedicated to the Archducal Crown of Austria.

Austria 2009 100€ Archducal Crown of Austria Gold Proof

Starting in 2008 with the Holy Roman Empire Crown gold proof coin the "Crowns of the House of Habsburgs" is a five coin series that will see one coin released in November each year, with the final coin issued in 2012. All the coins will be struck to the same exacting standards of proof quality, from 16 grams of 98.6% gold on a 30.00mm flan, and featuring the intricately detailed designs the Austrian Mint are famous for.

The following information on the Archducal Crown of Austria is taken from the Austrian Mint press release.

Rudolf IV invented the title of archduke in the spurious document of 1358/59 called the privilegium maius. It was an attempt to assert the status of the House of Habsburg as the equal of any Prince Elector of the Holy Roman Empire. There exists a mediaeval portrait of Rudolf wearing a crown similar to the Archduke’s Hat. Early versions of the crown have not survived, as they were either broken up or melted down. In 1616, however, Archduke Maximilian III of Tyrol had the present Archduke’s Hat fashioned and he gave it to the Augustinian Abbey of Klosterneuburg just outside Vienna in honor of St. Leopold, whose the tomb and shrine are still situated there to this day.

The Archduke’s Crown was not worn as such. There was no coronation. It was rather a symbol of authority and rank. It was brought into Vienna only for the ceremony of homage paid by the Estates of Lower Austria on the accession of a new Habsburg ruler. The Archduke’s crown was brought in procession into Vienna, conveyed in its own sedan chair along with other pieces of regalia such as orb and sceptre. The Archduke’s crown was then presented to the new ruler and then carried in procession from the palace to St. Stephen’s Cathedral for High Mass. The crown has always been very carefully looked after and secured. Even today the crown is not permitted to be outside the walls of Klosterneuburg Abbey for more than 30 days at a time.

The obverse depicts the crown itself resting on the cushion of the federal lower states of Austria. The elaborately embroidered cushion was used for the procession of the crown in the palace, through the streets of Vienna and into to the cathedral. The Archduke’s Hat is a diadem of eight golden peaks (three of which can be seen on the coin) decorated with enamel, pearls and precious stones. Two pearl encrusted arches hold a sapphire mounted by a cross at their intersection. In the crown itself is a red velvet cap and the diadem is surrounded with a circle of ermine. Around the top inside edge of this coin is the country of issue, “Republk Oesterreich” (Republic of Austria.) The face value, 100 euros, and the year of issue, 2009, are located on the left side of the obverse. Along the inside of the lower rim of the coin are the words “Oesterreichischer Erzherzogshut”, Austrian Archduke’s Hat.

The reverse of the coin depicts the solemn ceremonial procession. Three high-ranking officials of the Lower Austrian Estates carry the crown, the orb and the sceptre, in that order, along the centrally located street called the Graben, from the palace to the cathedral. The officials are wearing court finery, including the tall wigs known as periwigs from about the early 1700’s. Soldiers wearing tricorner uniform hats line the streets while a serious drumbeat is sounded as accompaniment. In the upper right side of the reverse the intricate Baroque monument in memory the ravishes of the plaque can be seen. This memorial column was erected in 1692 and can still be viewed today in the same location along the Graben. In the left upper quadrant of the coin are the fine homes, usually with shops on the ground level, typical of this time, many of which remain today.

The new 100 Euro gold coin designed by Mint engraver Helmut Andexlinger is struck in proof quality (reverse frosting) with a maximum mintage of 30,000 pieces. 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 Archducal Crown also accompanies the gold coin.

Also available is the first coin in this series, dedicated to the Crown of the Holy Roman Empire, as well as the official Crowns Of The House of Habsburgs Collection Case

Poland Issues Unique Commemoratives To Honor Murdered Priest Jerzy Popiełuszko

2009-10-28T21:52:00.000-07:00

The National Bank of Poland has issued a series of coins in gold, silver and nordic gold to commemorate the 25th anniversary of the murder of Catholic Priest Jerzy Popieluszko. This sombre tribute to the charismatic priest, a popular figure amongst Poland's anti-communist movement in the 70's and 80's, is made all the more special with the striking of the special denomination gold proof to mark Popieluszko's 37 short years on earth.

Poland 2009 37Zl Jerzy Popieluszko Gold Proof

Jerzy Popieluszko was born September 14, 1947 in the north-eastern town of Okopy. He began his path against Communist rule in Poland when sent to speak with strikers in the Warsaw Steelworks, associating himself with members of the anti-communist Solidarity movement. Popieluszko would often intertwine both spiritual and political messages into his sermons, criticizing the Communist system and motivating people to protest. During the period of martial law in Poland between 1981 and 1983, the church was one of the few places that people were allowed to gather openly, allowing Popieluszko to continue spreading his message of freedom.

Popieluszko's sermons began to be broadcast on Radio Free Europe, and as his popularity grew he invoked the ire of the Służba Bezpieczeństwa, (Security Service of the Ministry of Internal Affairs) who made attempts to silence him with intimidation. When Popieluszko refused to back down they fabricated evidence against him and he was arrested, however he was soon pardoned by the clergy and given amnesty. Frustrated with their lack of ability the Służba Bezpieczeństwa orchestrated a car accident meant to kill Popieluszko. He escaped this but was subsequently kidnapped and murdered by agents of the department.

News of Popieluszko's death created a huge uproar throughout Poland, with some 250,000 people arriving for his funeral in November 1984. He was just 37 years of age.

Poland 2009 10Zl Jerzy Popieluszko Silver Proof

Each coin in this poignant series features imagery inspired by Jerzy Popieluszko's life and death. The 16mm gold proof coin, struck from 1.75 grams of 90% gold shows a crowd of funeral attendees, all raising crosses in the air. Below is the motto most associated with Popieluszko, "Overcome evil with good", while on the obverse is the special 37 zloty denomination. No other coin issued from Poland has made a commemoration in this way.

The silver proof coin, struck from 14.14 grams of sterling silver (92.5%) on a 32mm flan has the image of Popieluszko deep in thought against a background of a cracked Poland. Embedded in the coin is a red teardrop-shaped zircon crystal. The obverse shows a partial image of Popieluszko's gravestone, with a single rose laid upon it.

Finally, the 2 zloty nordic gold issue has a striking portrait of Popieluszko on the reverse, together with the image of thousands of mourners and candles upheld at his funeral service. The coin measures 27mm and weighs 8 grams.

Poland 2009 2Zl Jerzy Popieluszko Nordic Gold BU

Austrian Mint Announce Coin Issuing Schedule For 2010

2009-10-20T16:32:00.000-07:00

The Austrian Mint has just released their Issuing Programme for 2010 with plenty to interest collectors amongst the popular ongoing coin series'.

January - The year starts out with the release of not one but two 5 euro commemoratives in silver, struck to celebrate the 2010 Winter Games that are being held in Vancouver, Canada from February 12. The two coin commemorate the sports of Ski-jump and Snowboard respectively and will be available in both Uncirculated (mintage 225,000 each) and Brilliant Uncirculated (50,000 each).

February - Continuing the high quality "Celebrated Physicians of Austria" 50 euro gold proof series in 2010 is issue honoring Karl Landsteiner, noted for his development in 1901 of the modern system of classification of blood groups from his identification of the presence of agglutinins in the blood, and in 1930 he received the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine.
It was announced on January 23, 2010 that the Karl Landsteiner Gold coin has been cancelled because the Austrian Mint was unable to clarify the personal rights with the descendants in North America. As such the mint is planning to issue a different coin to complete the Great Physicians series later in the year. This coin is expected to be released in late May.

March - This month sees the next release in the widely popular Silver/Niobium series of commemorative coins, dedicated to "Renewable Energy". The 25 euro legal tender coins in this series, first started in 2003, have grown in appeal over the years to be one of the Mint's most popular products.

April - The "Tales and Legends of Austria" silver series began in 2009 and with only 2 coins released at the time of this article, it has proved to be a wise theme choice for the Mint. With the 10 euro coins issued in Uncirculated, Brilliant Uncirculated and Proof quality, there is a coin for every budget and collectors of world coins have been snapping them up in fast and furious style. Each year for 3 years the series sees two new designs released, with the first for 2010 being dedicated to the Erzberg, also known as the Ennstaler Alps, in Styria.

May - Taking the place of the successful "Austrian Railways" series is a new run of 20 euro coins named "Rome on the Danube". These coins commemorate various towns located in Austria along the famous Danube river that were established during the time of the Roman Empire. Claudium Virunum was a Roman city in the province of Noricum, on today's Zollfeld in the Austrian State of Carinthia.

June - The first of the Austrian coin sets are released in June, and as is tradition in previous years, the release of the second of the year's 5 euro coinage is available on the same day. The mint set for 2010 will include all 8 circulating coinage from Austria, struck to brilliant uncirculated quality and housed in a full-colour informative coin folder. The 5 euro commemorative will honor the 75th anniversary of the famous Grossglockner High Alpine Road, that connects the state of Salzburg with the state of Carinthia. Named after the Großglockner, Austria's highest mountain, the road is panoramic and features many sharp curves through the mountain side, producing spectacular views of the ranges.

September - The first release for the latter half of the year sees the second in the "Rome on the Danube" silver coin series made available. This coin commemorates Vindobona, originally a Celtic settlement before becoming a Roman military camp, situated at the site of modern day Vienna. The town is known for being the place where Marcus Aurelius died in the year 180.

October - The second "Tales and Legends of Austria" silver coin release is dedicated to the story of Charlemange (Emperor Karl, Charles the Great) in the Untersberg Mountains. October also sees the highly regarded Austrian proof set of coins issued for 2010, containing all 8 circulating coins of Austria struck to exquisite proof quality.

November - The final issue for the year will be the third in the stunningly detailed gold proof series paying tribute to the Crowns of the House of Hapsburg, with the Hungarian Crown of St Stephen being recreated in stunning 98.6% gold.

Undoubtedly an exciting year ahead for lovers of Austrian Mint numismatic products! As official distributor for the Austrian Mint, Euro Collections International is able to supply stocks of the above items on the the day of their release from the mint. Be sure to follow us on Twitter or sign up to our weekly newsletter for notification of the latest arrivals to our website.

Mennica Polska Issues 3rd Coin in Popular Amber Route Commemorative Series

2009-10-19T17:09:00.000-07:00

The third coin to be issued in the "Amber Route" series of gold and silver proof coins is also the first to be released in 2009. The coins commemorate the ancient town of Elblag, located in the north of Poland and like previous issues in this popular collector series, each coin is enhanced with a genuine half-sphere of natural amber embedded into the coin itself.

Niue Island 2009 $1 Elblag Amber Route Silver Proof

The Amber Road is an ancient trade route, leading from Asia to Europe, used predominately by the Romans to transport precious natural amber from the Baltic and North seas, back to Rome. While Rome is best known for using the route, it was also used years before the Romans to move amber to Greece and Egypt, via routes from northern Europe to the Mediterranean Sea. The old Prussian town of Laup (Mokhovoye, in the Kaliningrad Oblast) and the seaport town of Truso (now Elblag) are thought to be the starting points for the route heading south.

The series of coins issued by Mennica Polska include one gold coin and one silver coin for each city being commemorated along the route. The coins are struck to the highest standards of proof by the mint, and feature similar designs for both coins, with the exception of their denominations. All up there will be 8 coins released in the Amber Route series, honoring the towns of Kaliningrad (Russia), Gdansk, Elblag and Wroclaw (Poland), Stare Hradisko (Czech Republic), Szombathely (Hungary), Carnuntum (Austria) and Aquileia (Italy), each with a natural piece of high quality amber embedded as part of the reverse design.

This third release pays tribute to Elblag, the ancient town located in the North of Poland on the Baltic Sea. The town is built on the site of the seaport known a Truso, one of the alleged starting points for the route. Truso was destroyed by fire sometime in the 10th century and lay in ruins until the 13th century when the Tuetonic Knights built a citadel there during the Prussian Crusade. From there a town was built.

The silver proof has been struck from 28.28 grams of 92.5% silver on a 38.61mm flan. The coin has been treated to give it an antiqued appearance of old money. It comes encapsulated and accompanied by a Certificate of Authenticity confirming the mintage of 10,000 coins. The gold proof coin is struck from 15.50 grams of 90% gold on a 27.00mm flan, and is also encapsulated and presented with a certificate. The mintage of the coin gold is set at a tiny 2000 coins released worldwide.

Niue Island 2009 $5 Elblag Amber Route Gold Proof

The reverse design of both coins is the same, and features a depiction of the St Nicholas Church, the medieval Roman Catholic cathedral in Elblag, together with a dual portrait Roman coin, as used in the times of the amber route, and a Roman goblet. In the bottom portion is the 10.00mm half sphere of natural amber, while at the top is the inscription "Elblag - Szlak Bursztynowy" (Elblag - Amber Route). The obverse, common to all coins in the Amber Route series, has the effigy of Queen Elizabeth II, together with the country and year of issue and the nominal face value ($1 for silver, $5 for gold). Above is the image of a horse-drawn cart, as used to transport amber to Rome, together with the profile of a Roman guard set against the background of the Baltic coast. At the top is the "Amber Route" inscription.

Other coins available in this series are:

2008 $1 Kaliningrad Silver Proof - BACK IN STOCK!
2008 $1 Gdansk Amber Route Silver Proof
2008 $5 Gdansk Amber Route Gold Proof

Austrian Mint Issues 2nd Silver Coins In "Tales and Legends" Series

2009-10-15T19:46:00.000-07:00

October 7, 2009: The second in the 6-issue series of silver coins dedicated to the "Tales and Legends of Austria" has been released by the Austrian Mint. The coins, available in both silver proof and silver brilliant uncirculated quality, have been struck to pay tribute to the story of the English King Richard I, known as "Lionheart", and his capture by the Austrian Duke Leopold.

Austria 2009 10€ King Richard I Lionheart Silver Proof

As the story goes, while Richard I was on the crusades he offended the Austrian Duke Leopold V by removing the Austrian banners of the conquered city of Acre (located in modern day Israel). Leopold and his German troops then returned to Austria, and some time after Richard decided to return to England. On his travels home the ship he was sailing on wrecked, and he was forced to travel over land, passing through Austria without the permission of the Duke. To avoid capture the King dressed in peasant clothes but was eventually apprehended at a restaurant outside of Vienna. His capture was blamed on locals spying expensive clothes under his peasant rags, as well as the fact that he ordered chicken from the restaurant, a dish out of financial reach of peasants in that day.

Richard was held prisoner at the castle of Duernstein which leaders from throughout Europe negotiated his release. In fact, most rulers were happy to have his head on a plate as it would mean they were open to invading England for themselves. Even the King's own brother showed very little enthusiasm for his brother's freedom, on account that the death of the King would mean the brother would take the throne. In the end it was the King's mother who secured a sizeable ransom, said to be made of some 22 tons of silver, and King Richard was released.

It is also said that during the time of the King's incarceration, his loyal minstrel, Blondel rode throughout Austria singing songs the King and he had composed together. While passing the Castle at Duernstein the king overhead the minstrel song and was able to notify Blondel of his position.

The silver paid for the release of King Richard I is significant to the Austrian Mint, as Duke Leopold V used a portion of the silver to begin the Vienna Mint, which eventually became the Austrian Mint. Started in 1194, the mint is the oldest continually operating company in Austria and this years celebrates it's 815th year of operation.

On the reverse is a depiction of the capture of King Richard I by Duke Leopold. The scene is taken from the restaurant outside of Vienna where the King was apprehended, and shows some of the tell-tale symbols that led to the capture - namely the official garments hidden beneath the peasant robes the King wore to avoid detection, the stately ring on his right hand, and the chicken cooking on the spit in the background. The inscription around the bottom of the coin reads: "Gefangennahme von Richard Lowenherz" (Capture of Richard, Lionheart).

The obverse, shown in the Austrian Mint stunningly detailed design style, shows Blondel on horseback, riding towards Duernstein Castle while playing the melodies he composed with the King. At the top right is the country of issue inscription "Republic of Austria", and the banner for Duernstein. At the bottom is the nominal face value of 10 euros and the year of issue (2009).

Austria 2009 10€ King Richard I Lionheart Silver BU

Both the high quality proof edition and the brilliant uncirculated silver issue have been struck from 16 grams of 92.5% sterling silver from a 32.00mm flan. The proof coin has a maximum mintage of 40,000 and is supplied in an official Austrian Mint case with Certificate of Authenticity. The BU version has a total mintage of 30,000 and is presented in a full-colour informative (German and English) coin folder.

These coins are the second in the series of Tales and Legends, coming after the popular Basilisk fable coin released in April this year.

Germany Issues Silver Coins To Mark 100th Anniversary Of First Youth Hostel

2009-10-05T20:02:00.000-07:00

August 13, 2009: To celebrate the 100th anniversary of the very first youth hostel, and the growth of the German Youth Hostel Association and Hostelling International (formerly International Youth Hostel Federation), the Karlsruhe mint in German has issued a silver proof and silver BU coin as part of the regular German silver coin program.

Germany 2009 10€ Youth Hostels Silver Proof

The very first youth hostel was started by schoolteacher Richard Schirrmann and conservationist Wilhelm Münker in 1909 in the town of Altena (Nordrhein-Westfalen) in Germany's west. Their plan was to offer cheap overnight accommodation to students on school tours travelling the German countryside. This first hostel was located in Schirrmann's own school at Altena, although it was moved to Altena Castle in 1912 where it still opwerates today.

The idea of youth hostels quickly spread, first throughout Germany and then the rest of the world. In 1919 Schirrmann founded the German Youth Hostel Association, and in 1932 the International Youth Hostel Federation was started. Later this would become Hostelling International, which overseas more than 4000 youth hostels worldwide. Youth hostels, know no longer exclusive to the young and more often called backpacker hostels, provide affordable temporary accommodation throughout the world for travellers all over the globe. While some are simply nothing more than a room to sleep in, others have transformed over the years to become a home away from home for backpackers, with bars, karaoke, tours and other activities designed to bring travellers together.

As is the tradition with silver coins issued from the various German mints, the two coins released to celebrate the youth hostel anniversary feature the same design while being of differing quality. The reverse of each coin featured the modern logo of the German Youth Hostel Association, with the anniversary inscribed inside it. Below is an image of the town of Altena, where the first hostel is located, while below that are the years of the anniversary.

Germany 2009 10€ Youth Hostels Silver BU

The obverse carries the Eagle motif, State Emblem of the Federal Republic of Germany. The Eagle has been designed to compliment the reverse image. Also on this side is the country and year of issue, together with the nominal face value of 10 euro.

Each coin is struck from 18 grams of 92.5% sterling silver from a 32.50mm disc, either in brilliant uncirculated condition or in high quality proof standards. The Proof coin is supplied in a capsule, while the BU edition comes in a protective plastic flip.

Spanish Royal Mint Issues Commemorative Salvador Dali Silver Coin Set

2009-09-29T23:49:00.000-07:00

The Spanish Royal Mint have issued their second tribute series of precious metal collector coins dedicated to renowned Spanish surrealist artist Salvador Dali. The first set, issued in 2004, commemorated the 100th anniversary of the popular artist's birth, while this second series marks the 20th anniversary of his passing.

Spain 2009 10€ Salvador Dali Automatic Beginning Of A Portrait Of Gala Silver Proof

The mint has issued five precious metal Dali commemoratives, four silver coins and one gold. Of those ECI is offering the three 10 euro silver issues to our customers.

Spain 2009 10€ Salvador Dali Bust Of A Retrospective Woman Silver Proof

The following is taken from the Spanish Royal Mint website:

Salvador Dalí was born on May 11, 1904. He began to draw and paint in earnest at a very young age and in 1922 he took up the study of Fine Arts in Madrid. During his stay in the Students' Residence he developed great friendships with the poet Federico García Lorca and the film-maker Luis Buñuel, and carried out with them many avant-garde artistic projects.

After studying in Madrid Dalí left for París where he joined the group of surrealist painters and writers. Dating from this period are some of the works that would make him one of the maximum representatives of surrealism, namely "The Great Masturbator", "The Spectre of Sex Appeal", "The Lugubrious Game" and "The Persistence of Memory". In 1929 he met the young Russian woman Helena Diakonova, known by the assumed name of Gala, who remained thereafter his model and companion.

Coinciding with the start of the Second World War, Salvador Dalí and Gala set up residence for a number of years in the United States where Dali's painting style, realist and onirical, enjoyed much success. He penned "The Secret Life of Salvador Dalí" and also worked in film, theatre, opera and the ballet. From the nineteen forties came important works such as "Soft Self-portrait with Grilled Bacon", "The Basket of Bread", "Leda Atomica" and "The Madonna of Portlligat". Having become one of the most famous painters of his day, in 1948 he returned to live in Europe and spent long periods at a time in his house and studio at Portlligat.

During the seventies Salvador Dalí created and inaugurated the Dalí Theater-Museum in Figueres, where a large collection of his work is exhibited ranging from his first steps and his surrealist creations to the works produced in the latter years of his life. After living for many years in Portlligat, upon the death of his wife Gala he moved to El Castillo de Púbol for a few years, then spent the last period of his life in La Torre Galatea, near the Dalí Theater-Museum in Figueres, where he wished to be buried.

In 1983 he created the Gala-Salvador Dalí Foundation, the institution that manages, safeguards and promotes his artistic and intellectual legacy.

He died on January 23, 1989.

Spain 2009 10€ Salvador Dali Portrait Of Picasso In The 21st Century Silver Proof

This series is composed of five collector coins that re-create some of this painter's most well-known works of art. Such as:

	AUTOMATIC BEGINNING OF A PORTRAIT OF GALA, 1933 A surrealist work painted by Dalí in 1932 in which he shows his desire to experiment with different stages of picture completion.
	PORTRAIT OF PABLO PICASSO IN THE 21st CENTURY, 1947 Picasso always maintained very good relations with Catalonia and from the early days of Dali's career showed interest in his work. So it is not to be surprised that on Dali's first trip to Paris the young artist was quick to visit Picasso. The latter received him in his studio and showed him how his work was developing at that time, an evolution that made a deep impression on Dali. Picasso's new style, fairly similar in those days to that of Breton, must have inclined Dali's way of painting towards surrealism for the first time.
	RETROSPECTIVE BUST OF A WOMAN, 1970 A surrealist bust that Dalí painted in 1930 and put the final touches to in 1970.

The three commemorative silver coins then have a common obverse; a reproduction of Dali's "SELF-PORTRAIT WITH L'HUMANITE, 1923"

Each of the three 10 euro denominated coins offered on ECI has been struck from 27 grams of 92.5% sterling silver on a 40mm (crown-sized) flan to the mint's stringent proof standards, producing a set of beautifully designed reproductions of Dali's work on flawless mirrored surfaces.

Each coin is then elegantly presented in an official Spanish Royal Mint blue jewel case with full-colour outer box, accompanied by a Certificate of Authenticity confirming the mintage of just 10,000 coins a piece being issued into the worldwide market.

Somalia Issue Latest Elephant Gold And Silver Coins

2009-09-28T21:57:00.000-07:00

Continuing the series of precious metal legal tender coins being issued from the countries of Africa to honor the majestic African Elephant, the Bank of Somalia has released the 2009 editions of their highly collectable gold and silver coins.

Somalia 2009 100 Shilling Elephant 1oz Silver BU

The Elephant coins have been an on-going series stretching back a number of years. Together with Somalia Zambia and Sierra Leone have contributed to this "African Wildlife" series that includes not only precious metal silver and gold coins, but also silver coins with selective gold-plating and coloured coins. There isn't a great deal of information available on the series itself, but of the 3 countries it seems that only Somalia still issue coins, with Zambia and Sierra Leone having stopped a few years back.

The African Elephant is the largest land animal on the planet, and one of the two existing genera in Elephantidae, with the other being the smaller Asian Elephant. African Elephants are found in most places on the continent itself, inhabiting desert, forest and river regions, although the majority are found in the south half of Africa.

The latest precious metal editions to the series of Elephant-themed coins from Somalia feature the same design on the reverse; an Elephant striding across the African plains at sunset. At the top of the coin is the "African Wildlife" inscription, while around the bottom is the name "Elephant" and the specifications for the coin (precious metal weight, type and purity). The obverse has the Somali coat of arms in the centre, with the country of issue at top, the year of issue split at middle, and the nominal face value at the bottom.

Somalia 2009 20 Shilling Elephant 1/50oz Gold Proof

The 100 shilling silver issue has been struck to brilliant uncirculated quality from 31.10 grams of 99.9% fine silver on a 40mm (crown) flan. The coin is supplied in a capsule for protection.

The 20 shilling gold version is struck to the highest proof standards from 0.622 grams of 99.9% gold on an 11mm flan, making it one of the smallest gold legal tender coins on the planet. It is also encapsulated.

Austrian Mint Issues 2010 Calendar Medal And Lucky Tokens

2009-09-16T15:31:00.000-07:00

The Austrian Mint continues it's on-going series of Calendar Medals and Lucky Tokens with this great new issues to celebrate 2010 and bring good fortune for the new year!

Austria 2010 Calendar Medal Silver Proof

The 2010 calendar medal issued by the Austrian Mint honours the year's regent Apollo, the sun god.

The medal designed and engraved by the Mint’s Chief Engraver, Thomas Pesedorfer depicts the mighty Apollo also know as Helios in Greek mythology. Apollo's personification by the sun is highlighted in the rays of light surrounding him. He points to the sun and the words, "Jahr der Sonne", or year of the sun around the upper left edge of the medal. He masterfully controls his four winged stallions with one hand as they pull his chariot through the sky.

In the background the mighty lion is represented, which is the ascendant sign to Leo. The sign that is present at the time of birth governs our personality, and appearance. The hard working, loyal and maybe somewhat conservative Leo’s will shine in 2010. Those born under the sign of Leo will find the year 2010 particularly meaningful.

On the other side of the medal all the Sundays are depicted as rays of sunlight emanating from the central figure underlining the bright year that 2010 represents.

The calendar medal has been an Austrian tradition since the 1930’s. Annually the medal changes to reflect a respective year’s regent and astrological ruler. The calendar medal is struck in 900 fine silver, weighs 26 grams and has a diameter of 40 millimetres.

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Austria 2010 Lucky Token Silver UNC

The Austrian Lucky tokens continue to be an annual tradition since the 1930’s. People give them to their friends and family who will carry them for a year in their pockets and purses just for a wee bit of extra luck throughout the coming year.

Austria 2010 Lucky Token Gold UNC

In 2010 our lucky friend, the chimney sweep takes flight, in a hot air balloon and travels the world. Warm soft breezes help him spread good luck through the four leaf clovers he sprinkles from above to all corners of the globe.

The other side of the token carries the traditional verse that loosely translated means: "Although I am small and round I will bring you luck all year round."

Austria 2010 Lucky Token Bronze UNC

Perth Mint Issue Latest In Popular "Battles" And "Orbital" Series, And Kick Off New "Sea Life" Silver Coins Program

2009-09-14T23:20:00.000-07:00

September 15, 2009: A big day from the Perth Mint with three new stunning silver coin issues being released today. Two of these are from popular, on-going series', while the 3rd marks the beginning of a new, eye-catching silver coin program devoted to Australian sea life.

Cook Islands 2009 $1 Man On The Moon Orbital 1oz Silver Proof

The first cab off the rank is the 3rd issue in the popular and highly innovative "orbital" coin series dedicated to mankind's achievements in space. The series started in 2007 and has seen one coin released each year with a compelling "orbital" function that allows the reverse design to rotate around a central image of the planet Earth. The 2007 Sputnik and 2008 Yuri Gagaurin 1 ounce silver proof issues have proven to be very popular amongst collectors of original coinage, and the 2009 First Man on the Moon release is likely to beat all expectations. This is on account of the theme of the coin, being one of the most significant in human history, and also that the coin has been released in the year of the 40th anniversary of Neil Armstrong taking the first step on the surface of the moon. This momentous occasion has been skillfully immortalised in eye-catching form with the use of full-colour pad printing to create a bright realm of the cosmos, together with images of the mission struck in 99.9% silver. The outer surface can then be rotated around the central image of the stationary Earth, making this a truly unique collector tribute item.

The Cook Islands 2009 $1 Man On The Moon Orbital 1oz Silver Proof is presented in a specially designed oval-shaped jewel case with commemorative outer box, accompanied by a Certificate of Authenticity. Available now at the Official Issue Price of the Perth Mint, these coins are set to rocket into oblivion, if previous demand in the series is anything to go by. Sure to be of keen interest to coin collectors and space enthusiasts alike, the orbit series coins make for beautiful gifts on account of their universal theme and amazing colour and detail.

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Next up is the 4th coin in the also-extremely-popular silver coin series dedicated to famous battles throughout history. The 5-coin series, which sees a new coin issued every two months, has so far commemorated the battles of Hastings(1066), Cannae(216BC) and Thermopylae(480BC), all featured in glorious 99.9% silver with stunning full-colour pad printing depicting a scene taken from each respective historical conflict.

Tuvalu 2009 $1 Battle Of Balaklava 1oz Silver Proof

The Battle of Balaklava occurred on October 25, 1854 and was fought as part of the Crimean War between the Anglo-French-Turkish soldiers and the Russian troops. On that fateful day the allied forces were attempting to conquer the port and fortress at Sevastopol, the strongest naval base on the Black Sea. The three countries spread their troops around the Russian army, however the Russian General Liprandi sent a barricade of troops to engage the British contingent, hoping to disrupt the supply chain between the British base and their siege lines. The British troops, under the command Lord Raglan, were outnumbered, and due to a misinterpretation of the Lord's orders the Brits engaged in one of their most disastrous military defeats in history, the Charge of the Light Brigade.

As with the previous coins issued in this series, this 31.13 gram silver coin features an eye-catching full-colour image taken from the historical battle. In this case it is a reproduction of the painting by Richard Caton Woodville, showing the ill-fated Charge of the Light Brigade in captivating colour. Struck into the coin are images of a Russian soldier and a cavalryman on horseback. The obverse is common to this series and carries the effigy of Queen Elizabeth II together with the 1 dollar face value, the country and also year of issue.

Each Tuvalu 2009 $1 Battle Of Balaklava 1oz Silver Proof is presented in an official jewel case with full-colour outer box specially designed for the coins in this series. A Certificate of Authenticity accompanies each legal tender issue.

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Lastly, and by no means least, the Perth Mint have begun a brand new series of Australian legal tender silver coins under the theme of "Australian Sea Life". The series for these 50 cent commemorative coins runs similarly to the Historical Battles series, with a new issue in this 5-coin program released every two months. The first in the series is dedicated to the Lionfish, with future issues seeing the Leafy Sea Dragon, Clownfish, Seahorse and Moray Eel immortalised in a combination of 99.9% silver and eye-catching full-colour pad printing. Coming off the highly sought-after Deadly and Dangerous coins, we expect a great deal of interest from this new sister series.

Australia 2009 50c Lionfish 1/2oz Silver Proof

The Lionfish is the name given to any of several species of venomous marine fish in the genera Pterois, Parapterois, Brachypterois, Ebosia or Dendrochirus, of the family Scorpaenidae. The Lionfish is distinguished by it's unique appearance, with it's extremely long and separated spines and striped markings that come in colours such as red, green, navy green, brown, orange, yellow, black, maroon, or white. The fish is found in the tropical regions of the Western, Northern and Eastern Australian coastlines, and is native to the Indo-pacific region - however introduction of the species to other areas now sees the fish found in tropical regions all over the world. The Lionfish is known to have venomous dorsal spines and when threatened will often turn upside down to bring these spines to bear. While the sting of a Lionfish is not usually fatal to human, it can cause extreme pain, headaches and vomiting, and anyone envenomed by the Lionfish should seek immediate medical attention.

The reverse coin design features a beautifully depicted full-colour image of the Lionfish, expertly pad printed onto the coin by the Perth Mint. Simple, yet captivating, the coin also has the title of the series and the name of the fish inscribed in silver. The obverse, which will be common to all coins in the series, shows the effigy of Queen Elizabeth II together with the denomination, coin specifications, country and year of issue. The coin is struck from 15.57 grams of silver on a 36.60mm flan to the mint's highest proof standards.

As is the way with Perth Mint commemorative products, each Australia 2009 50c Lionfish 1/2oz Silver Proof is beautifully presented in an official jewel case and full-colour outer box, accompanied by a Certificate of Authenticity.

Please Note: Due to overwhelming demand ECI have exhausted their allocation of the Lionfish coin. We are currently looking into the secondary market to try and obtain more. Follow us on Twitter for instant notification of when/if this product is available again.

Austrian Mint Releases 2008 Annual Report Figures

2009-09-10T15:51:00.000-07:00

The Austrian Mint have released their annual financial report, marking 2008 as an extremely successful year. This is thanks to, in no small part, the decision to strike the Vienna Philharmonic bullion coin in silver for the first time, a decision that has proved lucrative for the Mint and it's worldwide distributors. Following the success of the bullion silver issues is the innovative silver/niobium commemorative coins, which have been growing in popularity with each year of production. The 2008 issue, dedicated to the Fascination of Light, and bearing a distinctive green niobium core, has been by far the more popular release of the series.

The following is an excerpt from the preface of the report:

The Austrian Mint today is a leading mint with state-of-the-art technology and great prospects for the future. The main reason for this is, of course, our coins. More than 800 years of company history are also a solid foundation for looking confidently towards the future. Not least the pleasure our staff take in proving their skills internationally is also a good reason for being confident: we want to create coins today which will delight tomorrow.

It's that final statement that rings the truest, with Austrian Mint products proving to be some of the most sought after and collected coins on the planet it seems they have a reason to be confident. Looking at their product range it's easy to see why.

Whether it is the recently completed "Austrian Railways" series, the aforementioned silver/niobium annual releases, "Famous Physicians" gold issues, previous collections such as the Great Abbeys, or new series' "Tales and Legends of Austria" or "Crowns of the Hapsburg Empire", the expert attention to detail, the stunning craftsmanship, and the state-of-the-art minting technology is evident in every individual coin produced. This is a skill the men and women of the Austrian Mint have honed over many decades, through several generations, dating back before 1919 when the Austrian Mint became the sole mint of Austria. It would be more then 35 years later before the first silver commemorative coin was released (Reopening of the state theatre), but whether it be for circulation shilling and euros coins or commemorative tribute silver issues, the high level of commitment and quality is always there.

The Vienna Philharmonic coin has been appearing in silver since February 2008 - as the first euro denominated bullion coin. With this, the Austrian Mint has augmented the quartet of Vienna Philharmonic gold coins for the first time with an investment product in silver. The silver ounce has become, in just over a year, one of the most sought-after coins in the world today.

Besides the bullion coin, the Austrian Mint released 10 commemorative collector coins in 2008:

- 50 Euro Ignaz Philipp Semmelweiss Gold Proof

- 25 Euro The Fascination of Light Silver Niobium Brilliant Uncirculated

- 5 Euro Football Pair - Forward & Dribbling - Silver BU

- 10 Euro The Abbey of Klosterneuburg Silver Proof & BU

- 5 Euro 100th Birthday of H.V. Karajan Silver BU

- 20 Euro Belle Epoque Silver Proof

- 20 Euro Empress Elisabeth Western Railway Silver Proof

- 10 Euro Abbey of Seckau Silver Proof & BU

- 100 Euro The Crown of the Holy Roman Empire Gold Proof

Each of these coins has generated great anticipation and demand throughout the year. More and more world collectors are discovering the incredible value for money of these pieces, as shown in the intricately detailed designs, the perfectly struck contours and the popular themes. It's a winning combination for the Austrian Mint which has seen them approached by other countries to assist in the product of coins outside of Austria. This is especially true with the silver & niobium struck coins, with countries such as Latvia and Luxembourg having their own silver and niobium commemorative issues struck at the Austrian Mint, testament to the expert reputation the skilled craftsmen and women of the mint have earned by producing nothing but the very best.

Euro Collections International is honored to be an official distributor for the Austrian Mint, having started the company almost a decade ago thanks to the agreement which originally saw ECI only stock Austrian Mint products. We have a trusted relationship with the mint and as such we get first hand knowledge of new releases, and stock the widest range of Austrian Mint products outside the mint itself! Below is just a fraction of the 170-odd individual product lines that ECI offers from Austria, ranging from pre-euro shillings, tokens and medallions, through to coin sets and the very latest 2009 issues. More products can be found by browsing our Austrian Products Category, and join our mailing list or follow us on Twitter to get up-to-date notifications of new releases to our site.

2 Euro Commemoratives	5 & 10 Euro Silver Series
25 Euro Silver Niobium Series	Austrian Thaler Restrikes
Vienna Philharmonic Silver Bullion	1990 500 Schilling Egon Schiele Silver Proof
2000-2003 Art Treasures Gold Series	2007-2010 Famous Physicians Gold Series
Proof and Mint Sets	2009-2011 Tales And Legends Of Austria Silver Series
Calendar Medals	Annual Lucky Tokens

Luxembourg Begins New "Castles" Series Of Silver/Niobium Coins

2009-09-09T17:50:00.000-07:00

June 30, 2009: The Central Bank of Luxembourg has embarked on an exciting new series of collector coins dedicated to "Castles of Luxembourg". What makes this series especially appealing is that each coin in the series will be composed of a core of niobium, the metal used in the highly popular Austrian Mint annual silver/niobium series. The first coin to be released in this new series is in honor of the Chateau of Vianden.

Luxembourg 2009 5€ Chateau de Vianden Silver Niobium BU

The Castle of Vianden is located on the rocks above the town of Vianden and is one of the main tourist attractions of the small (population under 2000) city-status commune town. It was restored only recently and has become a museum which traces its history and its links with the royal families of Europe back to the middle ages. Castle was constructed between the 11th and 14th centuries on the foundations of a Roman 'castellum' and a Carolingian refuge. It is one of the largest and most beautiful feudal residences of the romanesque and gothic periods in Europe.

As mentioned, each coin will feature a core of niobium surrounded by a ring of 92.5% silver. It is not known as yet whether the coins will follow the suit of the Austrian Mint's silver niobium series and issue their niobium in a different colour for each new issue released. The coins are due to be issued on a yearly basis, with 12 coins making up the entire set. Other Castles to be honored in this series are:

- Le château de Beaufort

- Le Château de Bourscheid

- Le Château de Bourglinster

- Le Château de Clervaux

- Le Château d'Esch-sur-Sûre

- Le Château de Larochette

- Le Château de Mersch

- Le Château de Pettingen

- Le Château de Schoenfels

- Le Château de Useldange

- Le château de Vianden

- Le Château de Wiltz

The reverse design features a detailed depiction of the Vianden Castle, perched upon the rocks overlooking the town. Above and to the left is the inscription "Vianden", while at the bottom is the nominal face value of 5 euro. The obverse, shows the common design of the stylised profile portrait of Grand Duke Henri, with the country and year of issue to the left.

The coin is comprised of an outer ring of 92.5% silver and an inner core of niobium, coloured green. The coin measures a total of 34mm in diameter and has a total weight of 16.6 grams and has been struck to brilliant uncirculated standards. It may come as no surprise that the Central Bank of Luxembourg have employed the talents of the Austrian Mint in the creation of these Castle coins, no doubt due to the expert handling of the Austrian Mint's own silver/niobium coin series. Luxembourg is only the second country after Austria to issue a coin series using silver and niobium. They join only a small band of countries to include niobium in any sort of commemorative coin release, making the use of such materials rare and sought after by collectors the world over.

The Chateau of Vianden silver niobium coin is presented in a stunning, full colour informative coin folder, which beautifully displays the coin at the front of the pack. The folder is housed within a protective outer slipcase.

Euro Collections International currently has stocks of the Luxembourg 2009 5€ Chateau de Vianden Silver Niobium BU available to order now. With such demand for the Austrian Mint's own silver/niobium series we are expecting a great deal of demand for this beautifully crafted Luxembourg series.