Friday, 19 December 2014

Silver Prices To Outperform Gold In 2015!

I know it’s a bold prediction...silver prices are going to surprise investors and provide them with better returns than gold bullion. I say this because both the fundamental and the technical pictures for silver continue to improve.



Investing In Silver!
Demand and Supply:

The supply of silver produced continues to dwindle, while demand for the metal is robust. This is the perfect recipe for higher prices.

In Canada, a major gold-producing country, in the first nine months of 2014, mines produced 373,828 kilograms of silver.
 
In the first nine months of 2013, Canadian miners produced 510,390 kilograms of silver representing a 26% decline in silver mine production. (Source: Natural Resources Canada web site, last accessed December 9, 2014.)

Mine production in other silver-producing countries is also on the decline. As silver prices remain low, silver producers have less incentive to produce. And those whose production costs were too high have shut down their operations.

Meanwhile, the demand side for silver remains strong. From January 1 of this year to December 9, the U.S. Mint has sold 42.86 million ounces of silver in American Eagle coins.

In the entire year of 2013, the Mint sold 42.67 million ounces in similar coins. (Source: United States Mint web site, last accessed December 9, 2014.) Because of the holidays, December is usually a robust month for silver coin sales; hence, the number of American Eagle coins sold this year will only increase.

Demand for silver from India is strong, too. Ashish Mundhra, managing director of Mundhra Bullion, a precious metal dealer in India, said, “There is a tsunami in silver. Investors are pouring in.” (Source: “Silver Demand Returning, in Patches,”The Wall Street Journal, November 11, 2014.)

http://www.silverseek.com/article/silver-prices-outperform-gold-2015-13918

Friday, 5 December 2014

2015 Year of the Goat Silver Coins Feature Wealth and Wisdom!

The Perth Mint of Australia continues its Lunar Good Fortune series with the recent release of the 
2015 Year of the Goat Silver Proof Two-Coin Set.

 2015 Year of The Goat Wisdom Silver Proof Coin

Coins of the set are struck from one ounce of 99.9% pure silver and showcase wealth and wisdom designs. Maximum mintage for the two-coin collection is limited to 1,500. Last year’s Lunar Good Fortune two-coin set sold out with the same mintage.

Designs and Specifications
The two proof coins offer a different design in color by Perth Mint artist Tom Vaughan. The 2015 Year of the Goat Wealth Silver Coin depicts a goat standing on a statue against a background of gold coins while the 2015 Year of the Goat Wisdom Silver Coin features a goat standing on a ridge in front of the "Tree of Wisdom."

Both offer the same basic reverse inscription of 2015 YEAR OF THE GOAT and the Perth Mint’s ‘P’ mint mark. To complete the reverse, WEALTH or WISDOM appears above on the appropriate coin.

2015 Year of the Goat Wealth Silver Proof Coin

Struck as legal tender of the island nation of Tuvalu, Ian Rank-Broadley’s portrait of Queen Elizabeth II graces the obverse of each coin. Inscriptions around the effigy are QUEEN ELIZABETH II, 2015, 1 oz 999 SILVER, TUVALU and the face value of 1 DOLLAR.

Specifications for the coins include a diameter of 40.60 mm, a thickness of 4.00 mm and a minimum gross weight of 31.135 grams.

Ordering
These two silver coins appear together in the same Perth Mint gray display case.
Orders may be placed directly from The Perth Mint website at www.perthmint.com.au. Pricing is AUS $198.00, or about US $152. An affiliate link to new Perth Mint silver coins follows:

Monday, 1 December 2014

Rio Olympic Coins Unveiled by Brazil Central Bank!

The commemorative coins feature one gold design and four in silver. The gold coin depicts Rio's famous Christ the Redeemer statue on one side, and a 100-meter sprint design carrying the Olympic motto: Citius, Altius, Fortius ("Faster, Higher, Stronger").



Rio 2016 Olympic Games Special Edition Commemorative Gold Coins

Rio de Janeiro: Coins to commemorate the Rio de Janeiro 2016 Olympics were presented Friday by the Brazilian Central Bank along with four designs that will enter general circulation.

The commemorative coins feature one gold design and four in silver. The gold coin depicts Rio's famous Christ the Redeemer statue on one side, and a 100-meter sprint design carrying the Olympic motto: Citius, Altius, Fortius ("Faster, Higher, Stronger").

 Rio 2016 Olympic Games Special Edition Commemorative Silver Coins

The silver coins show well-known Rio landmarks where people practice sports. The coins also show natural aspects of the city and Brazil.

The general circulation coins show Olympic and Paralympic sports. The selling price for the gold coin is 1,180 reals - about $470. The silver coins sell for 195 reals (about $80).

Officials said 36 different styles of coins will be minted by 2016.

http://sports.ndtv.com/othersports/news/233802-rio-olympic-coins-unveiled-by-brazil-central-bank 

Wednesday, 19 November 2014

We Are Never Going Back!

It has always fascinated me to hear the mainstream's interpretation of the gold standard. The great majority - including many who are part and parcel to the financial elite - elicit a knee-jerk response to its mere utterance.


Many see the return to the most recent Bretton-Woods-based "imposed standard", not one based on market value. Furthermore, the knee-jerk is detached from the main reasons why they "should" oppose.

Mainstream financial awareness is fully clouded - even among its highest ranking practitioners.  And they see its implementation akin to going to a world without anesthesia, antibiotics, child labor, slavery, and the like.

In our fully propagandized culture and society, precious metals are among the great "misunderstood"; a grotesque illustration of the century-old financial/political movement to "free" liquidity. It takes a pillage to get this far down the rabbit hole; a broken economy, old systems spiraling out of control.

We have massive mis-allocation of capital. Near total destruction of purchasing power.  Emergency policies meant to prop up the banks are punishing savers. Justice is fully two tiered. 

Regulation is fully captured and revolving. The middle class is all but wiped out and on the verge of a yet another (this time abrupt) adjustment to the standard of living.

What is left of real capitalism is suffering from diminishing returns on the verge of no return. We are not returning to economic stability and growth any time soon.

We are going backwards, despite the implementation of a "restrictive" currency standard.

Previous economic growth hinged on the ability to extract natural resources at an exponential rate. In some ways, we are using "money" from nothing as debts to "pay" for it. Just as we are seeing with fracking and the so-called ‘shale-oil boom’.

Theories of economics cannot be reconciled with ecology. Once diminishing returns become priced in, all that is left is a huge wave of debt and derivatives.

The damage will be systemic. And once the damage is done, it is never the same. And yet in the immediate aftermath, the private sector is called in to bail it out and to run the system to protect itself in the name of safety for all. 

Alas, modern political economies are enforced frauds. The majority refuse to see this. They have the ability to back it up with violence and disinformation.

This foundation and, therefore, resurrection will be impossible. Resolution would require impossible shifts in world view. If it were not sad enough already:

There is news about the Middle Eastern radical militia movement, ISIS, adopting precious metals as their own.

Monday, 17 November 2014

New Zealand Mint – Fiji Taku Silver Coin!

For collectors and investors, the New Zealand Mint’s 1 Troy ounce of .999-fine silver Fiji Taku Turtle coin is a rare and beautiful catch. 

This elegantly powerful investment quickly became a staple in most coin collections and bullion silver portfolios.

New Zealand Mint - Fiji Taku Silver Coin

Bearing a $2 face value, this stunning coin is legal tender in the Commonwealth and a fine choice for safeguarding your wealth. 

It is a small enough unit of silver to be easily traded should circumstances dictate, with the added benefit of being issued by a government mint known for its commitment to purity and high standards and universal familiarity.

The silver coin’s reverse features the Hawksbill Turtle, or Taku, a common turtle found in Fiji. The Taku can grow to over three feet in length, weighing over 175 pounds, but are on the endangered species list, even as more than 3,000 live on the land and waters around Fiji.. 

The obverse depicts displays the Raphael Maklouf profile of Queen Elizabeth II with the face value of “Two Dollars.”

Whether you buy your silver Fiji Taku coins for investment purposes, to add to your coin collection, or present one to a child or friend as a gift, this is a purchase you’ll be glad to have made.

Wednesday, 12 November 2014

How People Get Rich Investing In Silver!

Gold gets all the headlines, but silver is a shrewd investment if you know what you're doing. One method of investing in silver is the tried-and-true idea of buying low and selling high. And right now, silver has momentarily dipped to 2008 prices.

 Silver Coins

So that might be your signal to invest in silver rounds, silver ingots or silver bars. However, there's another way of investing in silver that a lot of people don't know about. If you buy U.S. coins minted before 1965, many of them are made of 90% silver!

In fact, a long-time customer at the Liberty Coin & Currency store in Vancouver told an interesting story about how a silver coin held its value. He decided in 1964 to put a brand-new quarter in his pocket and carry it around for a while. 

At that time, he said he could buy a gallon of gas with that quarter. As amazing as it sounds, he is still carrying that same quarter. And today, that same quarter is still worth about one gallon of gas because of the silver content. 

However, if he had saved a quarter minted in 1965 (with zero silver content), it would only be worth 25 cents. So, in essence, silver has kept up with inflation.

The benefit of investing in bags of 90% silver coins is that you can typically buy them at a discount to silver bars or silver bullion coins. 

You pay a modest premium on top of the spot price of silver when you buy bullion. But bags of 90% silver coins carry a smaller premium when purchased in volume. That's why many people swear by investing in bags of silver coins minted before 1965.

Liberty Coin & Currency keeps live silver prices on our home page, so it's easy to see when it might be a good time to cash in on your investment. 

If you are ever interested in investing in silver bullion or bags of 90% silver coins the experts at Liberty Coin & Currency would be happy to discuss the advantages of both. And we would love to hear any of your gold or silver stories.

Friday, 7 November 2014

Nepal To Issue Coins Commemorating SAARC Summit!

The central bank of Nepal will issue silver coins of NPR 2,000 denomination with the logo of SAARC to commemorate the 18th SAARC summit to be hosted by the country here later this month.

SAARC Summit Coins

The Nepal Rastra Bank (NRB) will issue 3,000 coins with NPR (Nepalese Rupees) 2,000 denomination on the occasion of the Summit being organised in Kathmandu in November end, a top official of the NRB said.

The pure silver coins weighing 25 grams will have a SAARC logo along with the words "18th SAARC Summit Kathmandu 2014" on its head side.

On the tail side, there will be a picture depicting Maya Devi, the mother of Siddhartha Gautama, who later became Buddha and the baby Buddha along with the holy tree where he was born over 2,500 years ago.

The words "The Nativity of Buddha" will be embossed below the picture of Maya Devi and Buddha on the commemorative coins.

The board of directors of the NRB has already approved the design of the coins and sent the plan to the Finance Ministry for final approval.

After the approval by the Finance Ministry, the design will be finalized once the cabinet endorses the decision, the official said.

Wednesday, 5 November 2014

Royal Canadian Mint Offers Range of Christmas Themed Coins!

The Royal Canadian Mint have released a wide selection of Christmas or holiday themed coins for 2014. The time is almost upon us and if you are fortunate enough to be shopping for your favorite coin collector, you’ll be spoilt for choice because each coin would be a welcome addition to any collection! 

Some of this year’s coins on offer include those with color, some with venetian glass applications and some with enhanced 3D effect. But, the overall theme with all of the coins is festive, celebration, family and friends – and of course snow & fun!

 Lenticular Holiday Coin With 3-D Effect
 
1) A lenticular holiday coin enhanced with 3D EFFECT – 50 Cents: The two-image lenticular design follows one tree’s journey from a wintry outdoor setting to its transformation as the centerpiece for one family’s Christmas celebrations. 

The 3D-effect has been enhanced over last year’s coin – The design of this coin features a dual image which, based on the angle at which it is viewed from, alternates between two modern, stylized holiday images by Canadian artist Steve Hepburn. 

The first image makes use of the cool colors of blue and violet to set the tone for a wintery scene: soft snowflakes drifting down from the twinkling night sky onto the forest below. Flanked by two smaller trees, one evergreen stands prominently in the center of the image field. 

As the coin is angled, lenticular technology cleverly causes the images to switch. The tree occupies the same central position but in the second image, the viewer is transported indoors where the tree has now become one family’s Christmas tree. 

The shining moon from the first image is replaced by the glowing star-shaped tree topper, as two young girls adorn the tree with the last few ornaments. 

There is energy in the air as the children take part in this cherished holiday tradition, undoubtedly awaiting the moment when they can unwrap the neatly wrapped gifts that are at their feet. 

The vibrant colors of red, green and yellow offer a visual representation of the warmth and energy that fill the air during the holiday season.

http://news.coinupdate.com/royal-canadian-mint-offers-new-range-of-christmas-themed-coi

Monday, 3 November 2014

US Mint Announces March Of Dimes Commemorative Coin Design!

WASHINGTON – The United States Mint and the March of Dimes Foundation unveiled designs yesterday for a commemorative coin to be issued next year in honor of the March of Dimes. The unveiling coincides with the foundation’s observance of Prematurity Awareness Month

2015 March Of Dimes Commemorative Coin
Public Law 112-209, the 2015 March of Dimes Commemorative Coin Act of 2012, authorizes the United States Mint to mint and issue $1 silver coins in recognition and celebration of the 75th anniversary of the establishment of the March of Dimes. The act calls for the bureau to strike no more than 500,000 coins in uncirculated and proof qualities

The coin’s designs are emblematic of the March of Dimes’ mission and programs, and its distinguished record of generating Americans’ support to protect our children’s health

The obverse (heads side) design depicts a profile of President Franklin D. Roosevelt and Dr. Jonas Salk with the required inscriptions “LIBERTY,” “IN GOD WE TRUST,” and “2015.” Artistic Infusion Program artist Paul C. Balan designed the obverse, and United States Mint Sculptor-Engraver Michael Guardioso will sculpt it

The reverse (tails side) design features a baby sleeping peacefully in the hand of its parent with the required inscriptions “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA,” “E PLURIBUS UNUM,” “$1,” and the additional inscription “MARCH OF DIMES.” United States Mint Sculptor-Engraver Don Everhart designed and will sculpt the reverse

Pricing for the 2015 March of Dimes Commemorative Coin will include a surcharge of $10 per coin, which the act authorizes the United States Mint to pay to the March of Dimes to help finance research, education, and services aimed at improving the health of women, infants, and children. Additional pricing information will be announced prior to the coin’s release in 2015.

Friday, 31 October 2014

Royal Mint Unveils £5 Poppy Coin To Commemorate WWI Centenary!

A limited edition £5 coin with a striking poppy motif has been released by the Royal Mint to commemorate the First World War centenary.


 Stirling Silver Alderney Remembrance Coin




The striking sterling silver Alderney Remembrance Coin shows falling poppies and carries the inscription "Remember the fallen".

Just 2,014 of the coins, designed by Laura Clancy, have been made and a donation from each sale will go to the Imperial War Museum.

Shane Bissett, the Royal Mint's director of commemorative coin, medals and bullion, said: "The centenary of the outbreak of the First World War makes this year's Remembrance Day all the more poignant, and is a fitting reason to create this brand new design for the 2014 Remembrance coin."

Wednesday, 29 October 2014

Perth Mint Honours Anzacs With Silver Coin!

A limited number of silver coins marking 100 years since Australia's first fleet of military ships departed Albany to fight in World War I have been released by the Perth Mint.

Perth Mint Anzac Silver Coin

The coin features two ships, a list of the 39 vessels that set sail from the port, two short inscriptions and a red poppy motif.

Only 1914 Anzac Spirit 100th Anniversary Coin Series - First Convoy coins will be released.
About 30,000 troops from the Australian Imperial Force and New Zealand Expeditionary Force, as well as about 8000 horses, departed from King George Sound in Albany on November 1, 1914.

Perth Mint spokesman Ron Currie said Albany played a significant role in the story of the Anzacs and said the Perth Mint was proud to honour the troops with a coin tribute.

The piece will be available for $63.50 from the Albany Australian Post Office, the Albany Visitor Centre, the National Anzac Centre and the Perth Mint.

Monday, 27 October 2014

NGC Special Label For Silver Kennedy Coins!

The 2014 High Relief Silver Kennedy Half Dollar 50th Anniversary four-coin set is the most hotly anticipated modern coin release since 2011's sell-out 25th Anniversary Silver Eagle Set. 

 Silver Kennedy Half Dollar 50th Anniversary Set
  
The US Mint has announced that the Silver Kennedy Half Dollar 50th Anniversary set will go on sale October 28 with 150,000 sets ready to ship. NGC will offer its popular Early Releases and First Releases designations only for those coins received by NGC within 30 days of their release.

Collectors can enhance the presentation of these exciting new Kennedy releases with a special large-sized label created by NGC. 

The label features an iconic portrait of John F. Kennedy, the 35th President of the United States, along with his famous quote: “Ask not what your country can do for you, ask what you can do for your country.”

For more information and submission instructions visit: NGCcoin.com/Kennedy50

Friday, 24 October 2014

2014 Maple Leaves Silver Coin Glows in the Dark!

A new and unique collectible from the Royal Canadian Mint is its proof 2014 $20 Maple Leaves silver coin, featuring autumn coloring by day and a glow-in-the-dark appearance by night.

                                      2014 $20 Maple Leaves Glow-in-the-Dark Silver Coin

Struck in one-ounce of 99.99% pure silver and limited to 7,500 with 92% already sold, the $20 silver coin uses technology that unveils a single maple leaf when viewed in the dark.

Appearance of coin when removed from natural light

In normal lighting and as designed by Canadian artist Celia Godkin, the coin offers a striking view of sugar maple leaves in their autumn colors with reds, oranges and yellow tints.

It’s "a beautiful gift for someone who enjoys the colours of autumn mixed with a fun glow-in-the-dark maple leave," describes the Mint.

Surrounding the maple leaves are inscriptions of 20 DOLLARS, 9999, FINE SILVER 1 OZ ARGENT PUR and the artist’s initials of CF.

Obverses offer the Susanna Blunt effigy of Queen Elizabeth II with encircling inscriptions of ELIZABETH II, CANADA and DG REGINA.

2014 $20 Maple Leaves Glow-in-the-Dark Silver Coins are available from the Royal Canadian Mint via its website of www.mint.ca or by calling 1-800-267-1871 in Canada or 1-800-268-6468 in the United States. An affiliate link to Mint’s product page for the coin is found hereicon.

Priced at CAD $104.95, or about US $93.25, coins ship encapsulated and in a Royal Canadian Mint-branded maroon clam shell with custom beauty box.

Wednesday, 22 October 2014

Krugerrand Gold Coins – The Granddaddy Of Modern Gold Bullion Coins!

The beautiful Krugerrand gold coin is probably the most well-known contemporary gold bullion coin. Released in 1967 from the South African Mint Company, it had been meant to circulate as a legal tender currency. The Krugerrand grew to become so popular that in 1980, 13 years after it was introduced, it accounted for 90 percent of the gold bullion market!

Krugerrand Gold Coin

The coin is 22 karat gold and is composed of 91.67% gold and 8.33% copper. This gold alloy combination makes the gold Krugerrand more durable than other gold bullion coins. The durability factor was an important consideration when designing the coin as it was intended to be circulated and had to be resistant to scratches and dents.

The most popular version of the coin, the 1 ounce size, weighs approximately 1.09 troy ozs, is 2.84 mm thick, and measures 32.77 mm in diameter. In 1980, three smaller varieties also became available, each containing one half ounce, one quarter ounce, and one tenth ounce of gold, respectively.

The front side (obverse) of the Krugerrand features the face of the 5th president of the South African Republic, Stephanus Jonannes Paulus Kruger. The name of the coin was actually derived from Kruger’s surname and the Rand, which is the official currency of South Africa. Also inscribed on the obverse side in capital letters are the words “Afrikaans” and the English version, “South Africa.”

The back side of the coin (reverse) features a picture of the South African National symbol, the springbok or antelope specie. At the top of the coin, is the inscription of the word, KRUGERRAND, the coin’s name. At the bottom, inscribed in both English and Afrikaans is the Krugerrand’s gold content. If the coin happened to be the one ounce variety, the inscription would be, “FYNGOUD 1 OZ FINE GOLD.”

Because of the remarkable success of the South African Gold Krugerrand, other foreign countries such as the U.S., Canada, and Australia began to mint their own gold bullion coins. Canada was the first to do so in 1979 when it released the Canadian Gold Maple Leaf.

Collectors can also obtain the coin in proof edition, but they are more expensive than the regular bullion variety. Unlike many of the other bullion coins, such as the Canadian Maple Leaf and American Eagle, which are also produced in silver, Krugerrand gold coins are only available in gold. Beware of any websites offering these fake silver versions!

Monday, 20 October 2014

2nd Coin In The 1oz 99.99% Pure Silver Bullion“Canadian Birds Of Prey” 4-Coin Series (2014)

An apex predator with no natural enemies as an adult, the amazing Bald Eagle has long been a potent symbol of vision, power, and stoicism. The adult boasts a wing span of more than 2 metres, a standing height of about 1 metre, and an average weight of up to 7 kilograms. 

Canadian Silver Bald Eagle Coin


Nesting in tall trees near large bodies of water and well away from human habitation, bald eagles survive on a diet of fish, birds, invertebrates, and small mammals, but are opportunistic feeders that will also steal from other predators and eat carrion.

SPECIAL FEATURES:

Second coin in this exciting semi-annual bullion “Canadian Birds of Prey” 4-coin series from the Royal Canadian Mint.
 
1-ounce 99.99% pure silver coin crafted in bullion finish; an attractive acquisition for both first-time precious metals buyers and long-term investors.
Production limited to 1,000,000 coins!
 
PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS

Mint: Royal Canadian Mint
Item Number: 130579
UPC: 6-23932-05511-7
Composition: 99.99% pure silver
Weight (g): 31.11
Diameter (mm): 38
Face Value: 5 dollars (CAD)
Finish: Bullion
Edge: Serrated/reeded
Production limited to: 1,000,000
Artist: Emily Damstra

DESIGN

The reverse image by Canadian artist Emily Damstra features a bald eagle (Haliaeetus leucocephalus) just having caught a fish. The eagle dominates the image, its stunning wings spread wide as it is viewed in full-body profile from its left side. Here we see the Bald Eagle’s characteristic dark body and wings, white head and tail, and powerful legs and talons.

The obverse features the effigy of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II by Susanna Blunt.

Friday, 17 October 2014

Gold & Silver Coins Remember Polish Writer Stefan Zeromski!

The National Bank of Poland has issued two new coins which remember the 150th anniversary of birth of one of Poland’s most hallowed authors, Stefan Zeromski (1864 – 1925). 


Stefan Zeromski Gold Coin

His extraordinary gift for compassion, his open-mindedness, and the dramatic plots of his books won him a loyal following. Zeromski was known as “the conscience of Polish literature” and there was some surprise when fellow Pole Wladyslaw Reymont won the Nobel Prize in 1924, with many feeling that Zeromski was the more deserving candidate.


The coins, one gold and silver are produced by the Mint of Poland in Warsaw. The gold coin is designed by artist Dominika KarpiÅ„ska-Kopiec and the silver coin designed by artist Robert Kotowicz. 


Stefan Zeromski Silver Coin

The gold coin includes a contemporary portrait facing three quarters towards the left with the author’s name in bold letters just below along with the years of Zeromski’s birth and death. 

The reverse includes the national insignia of the crowned eagle encircled in the author’s more well-known literary works & titles in text.

Wednesday, 15 October 2014

2015 Gold and Silver Fractional Maple Leaf Sets Include Multiple Firsts!

The Royal Canadian Mint has released the 2015-dated Fractional Sets for the Gold and Silver Maple Leaf. Each set includes coins struck in 99.99% purity across a range of weights and features innovative firsts for the series.


                                                   2015 Gold Maple Leaf Fractional Set
 
The 2015 Gold Maple Leaf Fractional Set includes four different coins with weights of 1 oz, 1/4 oz, 1/10 oz, and 1/20 oz. For the first time, each of the four coins features a different reverse design depicting a maple leaf as it spins gracefully through the air. 

As an additional first, the 1 oz coin included in the set has been edge lettered with a serialized number. All coins feature a reverse proof finish, giving a beautiful natural shine to each leaf.

The reverse designs were created by Lilyane Coulombe. The obverse of each coin contains the effigy of Queen Elizabeth II designed by Susanna Blunt.

All four coins of the set are presented in a red lacquer case with a standard beauty box. The mintage for the product has been established at 600 units.

                                                   2015 Silver Maple Leaf Fractional Set

The 2015 Silver Maple Leaf Fractional Set includes five coins with weights of 1 oz, 1/2 oz, 1/4 oz, 1/10 oz, and 1/20 oz. All five coins feature a depiction of a sugar maple leaf surrounded by a decorative scroll. 

For the first time, the five coins are struck using an incuse technique, imprinting the texture of the leaf beneath the surface of the coin. As an additional first, the 1 oz sized coin has been accented by a translucent red enamel which wills the entire maple leaf while allowing the contours to show through. All five coins carry a reverse proof finish.

Once again, the reverse design was created by Lilyane Coulombe. The obverse of each coin contains the Susanna Blunt effigy of Queen Elizabeth II.

The set is presented in a clamshell case with a graphic beauty box. A maximum mintage of 9,999 has been established for the product.

For additional information on these and other new coins available from the Royal Canadian Mint, please visit the new releases section of their website.

Monday, 13 October 2014

Latest RCM $20 for $20 Silver Coin Features Snowman!

The Royal Canadian Mint has started accepting orders for the latest release within their “$20 for $20″ silver coin program, which offers a 99.99% pure silver coin for its legal tender face value of $20.

Canadian Snowman $20 Silver Coin

The reverse design for the new coin features a fanciful interpretation of a snowman. He is pictured within a snowdrift wearing a winter scarf and hat completed with a carrot nose and broad smiling mouth. 

His spindly arms made of sticks help him to take part in the great winter tradition of the snowball fight. The design is by Jesse Koreck. Inscriptions read “Canada 2014″, “Fine Silver Argent Pur 9999″, and the denomination of “20 Dollars”.

On the obverse of each coin is the effigy of Queen Elizabeth II designed by Susanna Blunt. Inscriptions include “Elizabeth II” and “D G Regina”.

Each coin is struck in 99.99% pure silver and carries a specimen quality finish. The weight is 7.96 grams and the diameter is 27 mm with a serrated edge. 

A maximum mintage of 200,000 coins has been established with an ordering limit of three coins per household. The coins are priced at their legal tender face value of $20 each with free ground shipping.

Monday, 6 October 2014

Silver & Gold Searches Spark Discoveries!

FLORENCE – Brad Karoleff, the 2013 recipient of the American Numismatic Association Harry J. Forman Dealer of the Year Award, shared the history of the search for silver coins starting with Columbus sailing for the west in 1492.

Numismatic expert Brad Karoleff shares coin lore with Florence Rotary Club

Karoleff, partner with Coins Plus in Florence, spoke during the Sept. 15 luncheon meeting of the Florence Rotary Club.

Twenty years after Columbus, Cortez conquered the Aztecs by partnering with the Mexicans who were subservient to the Aztecs. The Mexicans rebelled with Cortez and took Mexico City which housed great palaces and pyramids.

The next explorer, Frances Pizarro, headed south to meet with the Incas in Peru which coincidentally was at a time when the country was in upheaval after the conclusion of a civil war. 

He conquered the Incas and took the gold for his country. In the meantime, he gives his brothers a reward land, one of which contained the mountain of Potosi which is one of the richest silver mines in the world.

The sailors headed north with their gold, passing through Panama and start heading back to Spain. The Plate Fleet head around the Florida, run into a hurricane and 12 of 13 ships sink to the bottom of the ocean.

Many other ships were successful in heading back, but English state-sponsored pirates intercepted a number of the Spanish ships. Nelson was one of these pirates who intercepted one of the largest ships in the East Indies. When he returned to England, he was given the title of Lord Admiral Nelson.

Many of these coins have been recovered and Karoleff had a few of them on display for the Rotarians to examine.

Friday, 3 October 2014

25th Anniversary of the Canadian Space Agency!

The year 2014 marks the 25th anniversary of the Canadian Space Agency (CSA)—the organization that oversees Canada’s leading-edge space program and fuels the nation’s space industry. 

 1 oz. Fine Silver Coin - 25th Anniversary of the Canadian Space Agency

The Royal Canadian Mint proudly celebrates this milestone with a unique fine silver coin featuring an achromatic hologram that brings the CSA’s work to life.

Only the second achromatic hologram coin produced by us! This new style of hologram creates a 3-dimensional illusion for you. Don’t be disappointed, hurry and order yours today!

Special features: 
•  Celebrate the founding of the organization that leads Canada’s space program!

•  Your coin is only the second achromatic hologram coin produced by the RCM! This new style of hologram creates a 3-dimensional illusion for the viewer.
 
•  Struck on 99.99% pure silver, your coin is special commemorative coin features on its reverse a  full-colour achromatic hologram that presents a Canadian astronaut floating high above the distant Earth. 

It's anchored to a foot restraint on Canadarm2, one of the CSA’s landmark technological developments, installed on the International Space Station. The hologram lends exciting depth and movement to the design.
 
•  Your coin is GST/HST exempt with a limited worldwide mintage.

Design:
Your coin features an achromatic hologram image of a Canadian astronaut floating weightlessly above the Earth. 

The astronaut is anchored to a foot restraint on Canadarm2, which bears the Canada Wordmark. In the distance we see the cloud-mottled blue surface of Earth, backed by the black depths of space. 

The hologram lends depth and movement to the design; the astronaut seems to float above the Earth.

Packaging:
Your coin is encapsulated and presented in a Royal Canadian Mint-branded maroon clamshell with graphic beauty box.

Wednesday, 1 October 2014

The Canadian Mint's Answer To The American Eagle!

Two years after the Silver American Eagle coin was issued in 1986, the Royal Canadian Mint issued their own version of a silver bullion coin that offered a higher purity. 

 1oz Silver Maple Leaf

The Canadian Silver Maple Leaf is the official bullion coin of Canada and boasts a .9999 fine silver purity prized by collectors and investors alike.

Like its gold counterpart, the Silver Maple Leaf has a simple yet elegant design of a sharp looking five pointed maple leaf on the obverse and the familiar face of Queen Elizabeth II on the reverse.

The white glow of the higher silver content makes this coin shine brilliantly under any lighting and emphasizes the fine detailing on the maple leaves.

A fun fact is that different dates, most notably 1996 and 1997, have value that far exceeds their bullion price due to very limited mintage those years. 

To combat counterfeiting, new savvy security features were added to the 2014 design including complex radial lines and a micro-engraved laser mark. 

The Silver Maple Leaf makes a great alternative to the Silver American Eagle if you are looking to save a little money in premiums but still want a very pure silver bullion coin.

Silver Maple Leaf coins are available individually, in tubes of 25, or boxes of 500. We give discounts based on quantity.

Monday, 29 September 2014

Fort Moultrie To Be Featured On Coin!

SULLIVAN'S ISLAND - Fort Moultrie is about to be made of something richer than any other park in South Carolina. 

An image from the history of the iconic national park at the tip of Charleston harbor will be minted onto quarter coins in 2016. As a bonus, a number of "investment coins" will be minted, three-inch discs of fine silver. Those coins now sell for about $225 each.


      The Design Rendering Of Sgt William Jasper To Be Featured On Some Quarter Coins In 2016

Sgt. William Jasper waving the Palmetto flag was picked by a U.S. Mint citizens committee earlier this week. Gary Marks, committee chairman, called it a depiction of an iconic moment in the classic 1776 Revolutionary War victory that immortalized the fort.

"We felt it was a heroic rendering of Sgt. Jasper," said Marks, a Lebanon, Ore., medallic artist.

"It's a great recognition, and 2016 will be the centennial celebration of the National Park Service," said Park Superintendent Tim Stone. "Sometimes Fort Moultrie gets in the shadows of Fort Sumter. But a whole lot of history took place here."

The Fort Moultrie coins will be among five national park or site designs issued for 2016 as part of the America the Beautiful series started in 2010. All told, 56 America the Beautiful designs will be issued, one from each state or territory. The designs appear on the reverse side of the coin; the obverse side still depicts George Washington.

In that furious 1776 battle, nine British warships pounded the fort for more than nine hours trying to seize Charleston, the largest town and maybe the most significant seaport south of Philadelphia. Among them, the ships stacked nearly 300 cannons and touched off some 32,000 pounds of gunpowder in the fight.

The fort, not yet even fully built, had only 30 guns. But it also had two walls of spongy palmetto logs with a 16-foot-wide packing of sand between them. Cannonballs bounced off.

In an attempt to humiliate and demoralize the Patriots, the British shot down their flag - a dishonor, because striking the colors was a sign of surrender. 

The intrepid Sgt. Jasper leaped the walls, grabbed the flag out of a ditch in the sand, defiantly waved it at the British and jammed it back up on a ramming staff.

The battle took place just as the founders gathered in Philadelphia to debate and eventually sign the Declaration of Independence, and the victory likely boosted the confidence of the signers.

Col. William Moultrie, the fort commander, designed the flag, which featured the distinctive crescent "moon" now a part of the state flag. But the "moon" might actually have been the silver crescent emblem worn by the 2nd South Carolina Regiment that defended the fort. It's still debated.

Fort Moultrie was chosen as the site to be depicted by then-governor Mark Sanford, a Sullivan's Island resident at the time. Marks said he expected final approval of the design to be made before the end of the year.

Friday, 26 September 2014

Collecting Old Chinese Silver Coins Can Be Daunting!

Collecting old Chinese silver coins can be a daunting task. There are so many counterfeits out there that the values of professionally graded and slabbed coins are being driven through the roof.

Collectors are afraid of buying a pig in a poke, so to speak, and would rather pay up for a graded, genuine specimen than risk a smaller sum of money and perhaps end up with a fake coin. 

 China Yunnan Province 7 Mace 2 Candareens (Dollar) 1908

7 mace, 2 candareens in the Chinese weight system is equal to the amount of silver used in one dollar of the time. The denomination was designed with this in mind, and the coins are listed as dollars in some catalogs. 

Genuine coins weigh 26.8 grams and measure 39 mm in diameter. They are struck in 0.900 pure silver, not sterling, which is 0.925. The Chinese inscriptions read 'Yün-nan Sheng Tsao' and 'Kuang-hsü Yüan-pao'. Kuang-hsü was the ruler at the time.

Worn: $50 US dollars approximate catalog value
Average circulated: $250
Well preserved: $600
Fully uncirculated: $3000

The coin in our picture comes from Stack's Bowers and Ponterio where it sold for $1200 US dollars in a 2014 auction. CoinQuest thanks Stack's Bowers and Ponterio for use of their coin image. I like the toning!

There are so many counterfeits of these (and similar) coins on the market that one must take extreme care when dealing with these coins. Only buy from dealers you know and trust.

 Ebay is not a good source for these coins. See for example this entry on ForgeryNetwork which shows a counterfeit 7 mace 2 candareens struck in real silver.

Damaged coins will be worth much less than the values noted above. Please visit our Important Terminology page found at the top left in order to properly interpret these catalog values.

Wednesday, 24 September 2014

Fall Of The Berlin Wall Silver Coin Issued By The Republic of Palau!

The Fall of the Berlin Wall in 1989 marked the beginning of the German Reunification. The decisive factor enabling the reunification was the support of the Soviet Union’s head of state. 25 years later, the historic event is remembered on this Palauan coin. 

Fall Of The Berlin Wall Silver Coin Issued By The Republic Of Palau

It’s been designed by Coin Invest Trust with brand new 3D laser technology to produce a latent image on the coin surface. From different angles, the Fall of the Berlin Wall Silver Coin renders visible the two major protagonists from 1989: Helmut Kohl and Mikhail Gorbachev.

The Fall of the Berlin Wall in 1989 belongs into the category of historical events whose significance can never be overrated. 

It was the turning point at which the Cold War ended and the reunification of the two German states began. Two men were the driving forces behind the developments. German Chancellor Helmut Kohl and General Secretary of the Communist Party of the Soviet Union, Mikhail Gorbachev.

Since 1985, Gorbachev had been reforming the communist Eastern states under the slogan of «Glasnost» (transparency) and «Perestrojka» (reorganisation). 

By granting the Eastern Bloc greater autonomy, he signalled the West that he was welcoming change. Helmut Kohl, who was hoping for a reunification like so many other German politicians, was able to turn these signals into concrete concessions for a reunified Germany. 

Unlike in 1953, the peaceful demonstrations of discontent citizens were not put down violently. Instead, the two statesmen advanced the reunification of FRG and GDR and in this context emerged Kohl’s ten-point agenda, which he presented during a speech to the German Bundestag in 1989.

In 1990, Gorbachev was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize for his active involvement in promoting the reunification. He in turn nominated Helmut Kohl for this distinction in 2007.

The Fall of the Berlin Wall, as a united effort of both these men, is vividly captured on this commemorative coin thanks to technological sophistication: both portraits are united in one latent image, which, from different angles, shows Mikhail Gorbachev and Helmut Kohl individually.

Monday, 22 September 2014

Anglo-Saxon Coin Made in Derby Could Fetch A Pretty Penny!

A RARE coin made in Derby nearly 1,000 years ago is set to be sold at auction.

The silver penny, originating from the Anglo-Saxon period, was made in Derby by a moneyer – or coin maker – named Leofwine between 1042 and 1066.


The Anglo Saxon Coin Made In Derby

It was minted during the reign of Edward The Confessor shortly before the Battle of Hastings, making it a sought-after piece by collectors.

The rare coin is expected to sell for between £800 and £1,200 when it is auctioned at Spink & Son in Bloomsbury, London, on Monday.

Jon Mann, a coin specialist at the auctioneers, said: “Derby is rare as an Anglo-Saxon mint, though does turn up from time to time. It does seem to be well sought-after by collectors and thus makes a premium.

“As well as being a rare mint, this piece was struck under Edward the Confessor, whose reign is more widely collected than say Aethelred or Cnut. The latter are more prolific. In addition, this piece has a particularly well-struck bust and a sought-after origin.”

The coin is listed by Spinks as being in very fine, in a pleasantly-toned condition, and has clear markings.

Mr Mann said: “It features a crowned bust of Edward the Confessor and his full regal title and on the reverse the mint or moneyer’s name and a cross design known as a hammer cross.”

The Derby-made coin was owned by the tenth Duke of Argyll until his death in 1949. The duke, nephew of Queen Victoria’s daughter, Princess Louise, thought the coin had been made in Dereham, Norfolk, but experts have now confirmed that it was minted in Derby.

In Anglo-Saxon times the Derby mint was one of 50 or 60 across England. It is impossible to pinpoint an exact location in the city where the coin was made, as several moneyers may have had a licence to make coins in their own workshops.
  
Mr Mann said: “Anglo-Saxon coins were struck by moneyers in burghs, or walled towns. The moneyers were usually wealthy merchants responsible for ensuring the correct weight and fineness of the coins.

“Their names would appear on the coin so it could be traced back. They were made in a workshop using engraved dies to strike the silver blanks placed in between.”

Coins from this time are often found cut in half or quarters they were divided if the monetary value of the product being purchased was less than the face value.

Between 1974 and 1984, ten Anglo-Saxon coins – including a broken half of an Edward The Confessor penny – were found at the Anglo-Saxon monastery at Repton. Nine more coins were found there in 1985-1986, including a cut Edward The Confessor farthing.

Spencer Bailey, Derby Museums collection manager, said: “This coin is not something I am aware of. Most of our archaeological items are donated to us following excavations. We have a number of Anglo-Saxon Derby mint coins on display at the Silk Mill.

“At the Derby Museum and Art Gallery we have further pieces from this time period, including the sarcophagus from the Saxon saint buried at St Alkmund’s Church before that building was 
demolished.”

http://www.derbytelegraph.co.uk/Anglo-Saxon-coin-Derby-fetch-pretty-penny/story-22952948-detail/story.html


Friday, 19 September 2014

2014 Annual Uncirculated Dollar Coin Set Debut Sales!

New United States Mint figures offer opening sales for the 2014 Annual Uncirculated Dollar Coin Set. They were the highest of the week across all Mint products, not just those with silver coins.


2014 United States Mint Annual Uncirculated Dollar Coin Set

From its introduction on Monday, Sept. 8, through to Sunday, Sept. 14, collectors snapped up 12,876. The crown jewel of the set, of course, is the one-ounce 99.9% pure 2014-W Uncirculated American Silver Eagle. 

As a standalone product, the Mint charges $43.95 for it alone, but as part of the set that also has five other $1 coins, the price is $44.95. So the set is actually the better deal. To learn more about it, read this article.

To date, sales for the standalone 2014-W Uncirculated American Silver Eagle total 188,594, which includes the latest weekly increase of 628. It has been on the market since April 10.

In other product sales, the 2014 Silver Proof Set hit another milestone. The number of sets ordered by Sunday broke the 300,000 threshold when 3,906 more were purchased. Its newest total is 302,573. Sales of last year’s set ended in February at 419,719.

In the table below are the latest sales stats for collector coins and related silver products from the US Mint. Sunday, September 14, is the as of date.

Wednesday, 17 September 2014

The U.S. Mint Releases Great Sand Dunes, 5 Ounce Silver Coin!

At noon Eastern today (Sept 15-2014), the United States Mint will accept orders for the 2014 America the Beautiful Five Ounce Silver Un-circulated Coin – Great Sand Dunes National Park.

Great Sand Dunes - 5 Ounce Silver Coin - 2014

The U.S. Mint to Release Great Sand Dunes 5 Ounce Silver Coin TodayThe five ounce .999 silver coin is being issued at $154.95. 

At the current spot price of $18.62 per ounce, the bullion coin has a precious metals value of $93.10. The coin has a face value of a quarter.

The U.S. Mint has set a maximum mintage for this coin is 30,000 units.

America the Beautiful Five Ounce Silver Un-circulated Coins are struck in .999 fine silver and display the “P” mint mark indicating production at the United States Mint at Philadelphia.  

Each coin is enclosed in a protective plastic capsule and placed in an attractive presentation case.  A certificate of authenticity is included.

Orders for the coin can be placed on the Mint’s website and by calling 1-800-USA-MINT (872-6468). Hearing- and speech-impaired customers with TTY equipment may order at 1-888-321-MINT.  A fee of $4.95 will be added to all domestic orders for shipping and handling.

http://www.coinweek.com/modern-coins/the-u-s-mint-to-release-great-sand-dunes-5-ounce-coin-today/ 

Monday, 15 September 2014

Mughal-Era Silver Coins Discovered In Kanpur!

At least 61 Mughal-era coins were discovered in Kanpur in the area situated on the bank of River Ganga, as per news reports on Saturday.

                                  Mughal Era Coins From The Cantonment Area In Kanpur

The pot of coins was found by the children who were playing in the area and spotted the coins while digging.

The coins have inscription in Arabian and Persian and likely date back to the Mughal era.

As the word spread around, people rushed to the area and started looking for buried treasure.

Army and police were called and have cordoned off the area and the coins are now in their possession.

Major Chandra Prakash Badola said, “We have recovered silver coins from the spot and the area has been cordoned off.”

Friday, 12 September 2014

New £5 Coin Tribute To First Black Army Officer!

As the first black officer in the British Army, Walter Tull’s life was portrayed in a remarkable new play premiered at the Octagon Theatre — now he will be commemorated on a new £5 coin. Melanie Wallwork reports.

WALTER Tull was a remarkable man. Not only was he one of the first black footballers to play top level football in Great Britain, he also fought in World War One, becoming the first black officer in the British Army.

Walter Tull In His Footballing Days

Now, he will be remembered on a set of coins, produced by The Royal Mint.

The silver £5 coin shows a portrait of Walter Tull with a backdrop of infantry going “over the top” as a tragic reminder of so many men’s sacrifice, as the world continues to remember the centenary of the outbreak of World War One.

Walter Tull £5 Commemorative Silver Coin

Tull — the play depicting his inspiring yet tragic life story — was staged at the Octagon in February.

The play was written by Phil Vasili, author of a Walter Tull biography, who worked alongside the Octagon’s artistic director David Thacker to create the world premiere production.

Speaking of the new coin, Mr Thacker said: “All of us at the Octagon are thrilled that Walter Tull has been honoured in this way.

“We wanted our production of Tull to help bring to public attention the exceptional bravery and courage of this remarkable man.

“All of us were deeply moved by learning more about Walter’s extraordinary life and his achievements, both as a professional footballer and a war hero.

“Walter is an inspiration to everyone who is seeking to create a world in which all people are valued, irrespective of their colour, gender, sexuality and culture.”

Tull first played for Tottenham Hotspur on a tour of Argentina and Uruguay in the summer of 1909.

When the war broke out in 1914, he signed up and soon demonstrated a natural flair to lead and inspire.

Overcoming racial prejudice and military rules, he was commissioned as a Second Lieutenant and became the first black officer in the British Army.

Having fought and survived the first Battle of the Somme, Tull was killed in the second in March 1918, during the German Spring Offensive, at the age of 29.

Playwright Mr Vasili said: “I hope the recognition of Walter Tull’s achievements by the Royal Mint will help raise national awareness of his place in British football and military history.

“He was a reluctant hero. He came to hate the war but like millions of other brave young men his life was cut short in his prime. He was recommended for the military cross. It should now be awarded.”

The coin, designed by David Cornell, is one of a set of six £5 coins released as part of The Royal Mint’s five-year programme of commemoration of the First World War that will tell the story of the emotive journey from outbreak to armistice.




Wednesday, 10 September 2014

Italian Colonial Coins Eritrea 2 Lire Silver Coin of 1890 King Umberto 1

Italian Eritrea was the first colony of the Kingdom of Italy. It was created in 1890 (but the first Italian settlements were done in 1882 around Assab) and lasted officially until 1947.



Obverse: Eritrea Italian 2 Lire Silver Coin: Crowned and uniformed bust of Umberto I right. Legend: UMBERTO I RE D`ITALIA . 1890: 2

The Eritrean tallero was the currency of Eritrea between 1890 and 1921. The Italian Kingdom issued new coinage for their colony of Eritrea in 1890 with a silver Tallero d'Italia, patterned after the Maria Theresa thaler (together with 50 centesimi, 1 and 2 lire coins) equal to 5 lire subdivided into 100 centesimi and based on the Latin Monetary Union standards. 


Reverse: Eritrea Italian 2 Lire Silver Coin: Illuminated star above value (L.2) and bi-ligual (Ethiopian and Persian inscription = Colonia

The issue of a crown sized tallero d'Italia was an attempt to replace the Maria Theresia thaler which circulated extensively from Arabia to Ethiopia. The natives refused to accept the new coinage, even when the Maria Theresia thaler was prohibited.

Mint Place: Rome; Diameter: 27 mm; Weight: 9.95 gram of Silver (.800): ENGRAVER: Filippo Spanenza, Chief Engraver Rome Mint.

Monday, 8 September 2014

Canada Mints New Superman Coins!

The Royal Canadian Mint pays tribute to the Man of Steel with limited-edition commemorative coins made of silver and gold...not Kryptonite.

It's not a bird! It's not a plane! It's a Superman coin collection! Last year, the Royal Canadian Mint released commemorative coins celebrating the Man of Steel himself, Superman. And now it's continuing to honor the superhero with another collectible coin set.


While these coins aren't made from Kryptonite, they do range from fine silver to 14-karat gold. The 2014 collection includes four new coins. A fine silver coin of Superman from the Action Comics #419 cover costs about $90 for a $15-face-value coin. 

The half-ounce fine silver coin depicts Superman lifting a car, from the Action Comics #1 cover. The $10-face-vaule coin costs about $70.

The one ounce fine silver coin depicts a newer look of the Man of Steel from the Superman Annual #1 cover published in 2012. The $20-face-value coin costs around $110.

The most expensive coin is the 14-karat gold coin of the famous red "S" on Superman's costume depicted on The Adventures of Superman comic #596. The $100-face-value coin costs around $750.

Each coin is encapsulated and presented in a premium graphic case with a beauty box.

The mint will produce 10,000 copies of each coin, except for the gold coin. There will be only 2,000 of those produced.