Numismatic Gold coins

The profession of numismatists has changed in the past 30 years. Lovers of beautiful and rare gold coins have been gradually replaced by amateur investors.

Pierre-Yves Lathoumetie in “Avers et revers de la numismatique (1973)” makes a distinction between the humanist collector and the speculator.
The former may make some honest investments guided by his passion for rare or unusual Gold, silver or bronze coins. The latter, instead, will fail unless he is able to appreciate the true historical value of the coins.

Why consult a numismatist?

Both need to consult an expert: the numismatist, who will be able to advice them on price and history of a Gold, silver or bronze coin. Consultation with a numismatist and trust in him does not prevent the collector or speculator from comparing prices or obtaining information from other sources.

Roughly speaking, this is basically what awaits those who want to get involved in the numismatic world. Experts and novices run the risk of finding themselves lost in a market that has changed considerably in 30 years and which is subject to fluctuations and uncertainties.

A market without rules

It is important to know that there are no rules governing the rare coin market. The price on a piece may differ greatly within the same category, from one country to another, depending on demand. There is no fixed price. Two identical coins may have two different prices with the same exhibitor. What this tells us is that the market of extremely rare pieces has no uniformity, in contrast to the market of gold bars or investment coins which is structured and organized. These changes, obviously, have an impact on the profession of numismatist.

Numismatic influences of the Art market

After 30 years, we are witnessing a type of negotiation between vendors and purchasers where any price is possible, within the higher band. We are also witnessing an extremely sensitive market where the most insignificant event may shoot up the price of some particular coin: public sale, archaeological discovery.

From collector, the numismatist has become speculator, ignoring in most cases the past of the coins, the art and archaeology.

Varied consequences

-Perfect coins are being sought after due to their premium, and because those that are damaged or deteriorated lose their charm. There have been cases when extremely rare pieces have been sold for very little money and others less unusual have been sold at gold price because they are intact.

-Investors grab Gold coins which are easily recognizable (newer pieces from the 19th and 20th centuries) the prices of which increase rapidly, in detriment of rarer pieces which are not so popular among the public.

- The price of a coin may differ from one country to another as the demand is not the same (usually national pieces are more valued in their own country).

To summarize, the rare coins market has nothing in common with the common coins market reserved for investment. But as is the case with works of art and fine wines, the truly rare coins are the ones that in the long term are a good investment, because a rare piece has a “long life” and never depreciates. Its value is based on its rarity and not the gold price.

Electronic scales help identify used and worn coins. The photo demonstrates a French 20Franc Napoleon Marianne Coq which is perfect according to its weight.

When it comes to gold for investment too many buyers pay little attention to the quality of coins at the time of purchase and all too often they realise the importance of this to their investment when it is too late, at the time of resale. In effect, at the moment you wish to sell your gold investment coins they briefly revert back to a numismatic object that will be evaluated and priced as such.

In other words “it’s a gold coin, a twenty franc Napoleon which I should be able to sell with a 20% premium during a period of crisis” quickly loses meaning if you haven’t taken the time before you bought it to verify the quality.

You see when trying to sell on gold coins to professional dealers they will be intractable about the coin quality. In fact they will know so much more than you that every little imperfection they can describe downgrades the value of your coin to them. They will use this to negotiate the price down by reducing or eliminating the premium you were expecting. Additionally they may only offer to buy your coin by its weight and relative gold content weight, minus their commission and a little extra because you have devalued the coin by “handling” it. Finally you will arrive at a price considerably less than you were expecting and certainly less than you’d worked out using the spot gold price or professional quotes for coins.

You may act surprised but then why would you be knowing that any investment in physical assets of such value requires or even demands that you do your homework on what you are buying and how it is assessed or valued. You would certainly need to consider the eventuality of resale and how that should be best done for the best price and at the profit for you – wouldn’t you?

Well gold is no different and you should familiarise yourself with the important factors to consider when procuring gold coins.

Obviously there are some coins that are so rare they demand an ever increasing price but this is solely based on its numismatic (collectible) value. That is to say an extremely rare coin is not as sensitive to a period of crisis or the ups and downs of the gold price but moreso its value is determined and measured by the availability (or lack of it) of other coins like it. An example we can use is the French 100 Franc Bazor which is highly sought after but very rare. Its price is very high (given its gold content alone) because there are very few left in the world. The price will rise in time for its “collectible” value but it is unlikely to double within 3 weeks which a 20 Franc Napoleon of good quality can because of its premium. Rare coins are also being looked at slightly differently in terms of taxation and whereas investment gold coins are exempt from VAT (Value Added Tax) throughout Europe, these rare coins are no longer automatically exempt.

What is the minimum quality of condition for coins still considered to have a premium?

Generally speaking a quality of “very fine (VF)” upwards, “extremely fine (EF)” and “mint state (MS)”  are considered as coin conditions that still enjoy the benefit of a premium. These are the types of coins you should consider for gold investment. Apart from some rarities, the qualities of condition “fine (F) and “very good (VG)” will be bought and sold for their gold content weight and often finish up in the smelting pot for recycling.

Coins declared as “uncirculated (UNC)” are basically new coins that have never been in circulation or were never meant to be circulated. These will have an elevated basic premium due to them being issued direct from the Mint or in some cases may be very rare. In both cases the elevated premium makes them less attractive as an investment because their premium differential is weak. The premium differential is the % difference between the premium associated with the coin during normal economic conditions and the premium it may rise to during a period of crisis. A high starting premium as with UNC coins means there is less room for growth. Many of these UNC coins will be of interest to pure numismatists ie. Collectible.

A Good Magnifying glass really helps to identify the features and any faults

Things to avoid

Even once you have seen the table below you may not feel sure of what to look out for or feel capable to accurately judge a coins condition. It is exactly for this reason that we advise you to avoid buying coins from small ads, individuals or maybe through bid sites like eBay. It is hard enough to know which coins are in which condition but the photos you see are not necessarily going to help and who knows what a seller really knows about their product if you know even less! The trick is to buy from professional sources where you will find fully certificated, verified and referenced coins that are what they say they are. Coins which are professionally inspected and sealed in their packaging maintain their quality so they will still be as valuable when you come to selling them. If you were to keep your coins in a box , unpackaged, taking them out occasionally to admire them you are effectively damaging your own investment by downgrading their quality through handling. Of course that is the difference with gold coin investment and gold coin collecting. An investment produces maximum yield when its integrity is protected and the physical asset is in no way altered to undermine its value.

Please also note that it is the most worn side that determines the condition quality so be sure to look at both sides of any coin.

Be aware of over-shiny coins: these will have been cleaned using polish, chemicals or abrasion to buff up the look and hide imperfections. It is recommended to use a magnifying instrument to inspect any coin as the naked eye cannot always detect the craftsmanship of the precision engraving. These are a great indicator of condition as wear & tear erodes precious detail of the design. Naturally one should always check for the obvious dents and scratches caused by rough handling or shocks. Do not be swayed – these will affect the value of your coin because they affect its condition quality.

It’s also worth noting that some damage inflicted like scratches and dents may have removed gold from your coin. A simple test for this is to weigh your coin accurately on an electronic balance. A French 20 Franc Napoleon should weigh between 6.44 and 6.46g to be considered as valuable. Anything from 6.43g down should be left alone.

You will find some useful information in our glossary as well as some photos that may help you choose wisely.

Similarly we would suggest you browse through the Gold Coin buying guide from our friends at LinGold.com who have kindly let us provide this for you.

Below is a summary of the basic qualities associated with the gradings of  coin condition and some useful translations for those looking internationally.

Gold Coin Gradings

Brilliant Uncirculated (UNC) or “Fleur de Coin”(FDC) – A perfect coin ( no traces of use, handling, shocks, scratches) which has 100% of its design remaining and still has a full mint sheen. These coins as the name indicates have never been in circulation and are exactly as the moment they were struck. They are indeed rare because even uncirculated coins may have been transported together from the mint to a vault and therefore have tiny abrasions or scratches from the journey. A coin in this condition must be flawless. Their rarity means they are of more interest to Numismatists and their elevated basic premium means they are not considered as a logical investment.

In other countries this is referred to as

• USA: MS65
• France: Fleur de Coin (FDC)
• Germany : Stempelglanz (STG)
• Italy : Fior di Conio (FDC)
• Spain: Flor de Cuño (FDC)

Uncirculated (UNC) or Mint state (MS) – as implied these coins have never been in circulation and therefore have no visible traces of use, design erosion or scratching. However , they do not have the full mint sheen all over the coin which is usually due to transportation.  Some countries still consider these coins as FDC.

In other countries this is referred to as

• USA: MS63
• France: Splendide (SPL)
• Germany: Fast Stempelglanz
• Italy -
• Spain – SC

Extremely Fine (EF) – This is a condition of a coin that is almost perfect but which has had a little circulation and therefore will possess some small faults although often difficult to detect with the naked eye. Using a magnifying glass one can see some light scratches and some erosion of certain raised details such as hair, beards, moustaches, feathers that form the design. The mint sheen is missing and there may also be evidence of some little dents from transportation of coins.

In other countries this is referred to as

• USA: AU 65
• France: SUPERBE (SUP)
• Germany: Vorzüglich (VZ)
• Italy: Splendido (SPL)
• Spain: Extraordinariamente bien conservada (EBC)

Very Fine (VF) – A coin in this condition shows obvious signs that it has been in circulation but it still has a good appearance. The coin rim can be slightly worn but still apparent and the relief features of the design can appear “tired” but not worn away. The signs of use are visible but the coin srtill has an agreeable appearance. This type of condition is considered as an average “plus” state of conservation which still allows the coin to attract a premium to its value.

In other countries this is referred to as

• USA: XF 40
• France: Très Très Beau (TTB)
• Germany : Sehr Schön (SS)
• Italy Bellissimo (BB)
• Spain : Muy bien conservada (MBC)

Fine (F) - This condition indicates a coin that has been well circulated. Some of the engraving detail has started to flatten (ribbons, hair, inscriptions etc). The metal surface is dull or in some cases much too shiny because of polishing. Deep scratches are clearly visible as well as dents from impacts with some deformation of the engraving being apparent. This condition of coin can still be of interest to a numismatist but it no longer supports a premium and is therefore not recommended for investment which is better served by coins in the conditions above.

In other countries this is referred to as

• USA: F 15
• France: Très Beau (TB)
• Germany : Schön (S)
• Italy Molto bello (MB)
• Spain : Bien conservada+ (BC+)

Very Good (VG) – Even though these coins are considered “very good” they are nevertheless traded purely by weight. They are very worn coins which have a mediocre appearance and have been circulated a lot. We can still just about distinguish their designation but some details are completely worn away or missing. The rim detail, engraved relief features are all but indistinguishable and any images are no longer sharp. These coins inevitably find their way to the foundry for melting unless they happen to have numismatic significance. However, in the light of being investment coins they are to be avoided. One doesn’t know how much gold has been eroded, the weights can vary greatly and there is absolutely no premium attached to these coins.

In other countries this is referred to as

• USA: G6
• France: Beau (B)
• Germany : Sehr Gut Erhalten (SGE)
• Italy Bello (B)
• Spain : Bien conservada (BC)

This covers the principal gradings of coin conditions applicable to gold although one may also hear certain other terms used for « intermediate » grades such as ;

About Uncirculated (XF/UNC) which falls between Uncirculated and Extra Fine. It does not have an equivalence in every country and is therefore less used.

One may find various numbers attached to certain conditions particularly in France which allows grading within any given condition eg; SUP 55-62 which grades the “Superbe” from 55 to 66. However this should not be a concern for coin investors as the grading is a purely numismatic tool for specialists. The gold investment quality of all “Superbe” is the same as is their premium.

Finally there are even lower conditions such as “Good” and “Poor” but these are frankly of little interest to us because their condition is well below those required for investment and they are only good for the smelting pot!

Remember:

Gold Coins are an investment that you own!

They are not linked to Sovereign Debt like other investments.

You can buy them when you like.

You can sell them when you like.

Gold Coins have a better potential than Bullion because they have a dual leverage – Gold price and Premium.

Gold coins are transportable, great for liquidity and easy to resell.

Related articles include:

Half-Napoleon 10 Francs Gold Coins

The Premium on Gold Coins

Should I Buy 32 Krugerrands or a 1 Kg Gold Bar?

Krugerrand – The original Bullion Coin

Investment Gold Coins

Latest Gold Coin Prices

Paper money or Gold?

Gold Money, a currency of the past…. and the future?

20 Marks - Obverse

The German mark, created in 1873, is a coin with multiple facets. Closely linked to the political history of Germany, this often forgotten coin nevertheless has many other benefits.

The German Mark: the story behind it

In 1861, after the years of the Napoleonic Wars, Wilhelm I accedes to the throne of Prussia, which at the time dominated the German Confederation. Prussia had annexed several German States, namely Hanover. In the war opposing Prussia and France, all the German States offered their armies under Prussian command. After the victory of Prussia over France in 1870, the German States were united under the same policy: the Second German Empire. The King of Prussia was proclaimed Emperor, or “Kaiser”. From 1873, a new currency, the Reichsmark, was introduced in all the member states of the Empire: 54 kingdoms, 6 Grand-Duchies, 5 duchies, 7 principalities and 3 free towns.

Each independent German State struck its own gold Reichsmarks.

The Deutsche Marks struck by Prussia are the most common: on them one can see the bust of the Emperor Wilhelm II in the uniform of a cavalry officer, with the inscription “DEUTSCHER KAISER KONIG VON PREUSSEN” (German Emperor, King of Prussia). Among the most common gold coins of 20 Marks, one can also find coins struck by Bavaria, the city of Hamburg, Wurttemberg, Baden and Saxony. Each coin includes a letter representing the issuing Mint:
- A: Berlin;
- B: Hanover;
- C: Frankfurt;
- D: München;
- E: Dresden;
- F: Stuttgart;
- G: Karlsruhe;
- H: Darmstadt;
- J: Hamburg.
The war of 1914 marked the end of German gold coins, and the German defeat of 1918, which caused the abdication of the Emperor Wilhelm II, was followed by the proclamation of the Republic.

List of heads shown on the listed gold coins of gold German Marks

- Prussia: Wilhelm I, Frederic III, Wilhelm II, Wilhelm II in uniform
- Baden: Frederic I
- Hamburg: coat of arms
- Saxony: George of Saxony
- Bavaria: Louis II
- Württemberg: Wilhelm II

20 Gold Marks coin: description

20 Marks - Reverse

On the reverse side of the 20 Gold Marks, one can see an imperial crown, under which an eagle with the collar of the Black Eagle can be seen: this order was the supreme honorary order of the Kingdom of Prussia, founded by Frederic III of Brandenburg in 1701. On the chest of the bird a shield is engraved bearing the arms of Hohenzollern, a European royal family which reigned over Brandenburg and the Duchy of Prussia from 1525 onwards.
In 1871, the German Empire is proclaimed: the family members added to their titles that of German Emperor which they kept until 1918, when Wilhelm II abdicated. The inscription “DEUTSCHES REICH”, “German Empire”, is shown on all German Marks struck between 1890 and 1914. On the edge of the 20 Mark, one can read “GOTT MIT UNS” (God is with us).
- Weight: 7,9650 grams
- Diameter: 22,5 mm
- Standard of fineness: 900/1000th
- Issued: 1871-1915

The 10 Gold Marks coin

The obverse and reverse sides are identical to the 20 Marks: showing the eagle and the heads of the Emperors. On the other hand, along the edge of the gold coin, one can see grapes and stars.
- Weight: 3.97 grams
- Diameter: 19.5 mm
- Standard of fineness: 900/1000th
- Issued: 1871-1915

The Gold Mark: interest for the investor

Although the German coin is not particularly sought-after, the variety in types still makes it attractive: indeed, the German political structure of the pre-war period allowed a great diversity in the coins struck on the same module. One can thus switch from common-place examples to very rare gold coins. At the time, Prussia was the largest and richest of the provinces of the Prussian Empire: the 20 Marks of Prussia in particular remain interesting coins to go after, for their history, as well as for investment purposes.

Alfonso XII 25 pesetas coins

Without doubt the Alfonso XII 25 pesetas coins are on the list of the most important coins in the history of Spain.
His life started with the coup d’etat on 3 December 1874 by General Pavía which brought about the end of the Republic and the establishment of the “Regency Ministry” by Antonio Cánovas, whose commitment was to re-establish the Bourbon monarchy.
All this effort culminated in the arrival in Spain of the son of Isabel II, who had ascended to the throne three years earlier while in exile.

25 Pesata coins

With the Bourbons again at the helm, a new period started to strengthen the pesetas after 10 years of being minted only in copper and silver. This in turn saw the rebirth of the process of manufacturing in gold thereby demonstrating the maturity and growth of the new monetary system which over this period exceeded some 30 million coins.
Design of the new gold coins to be put into circulation occurred three months after the arrival of Alfonso XII by means of a Royal Decree.

Seal of Guarantee for this Currency

There were very few people involved in the design of this coin which propelled the kingdom’s economy for more than a decade. In concrete terms, there were seven experts over this period who were tasked with guaranteeing the quality of the product. Their duties required the printing of their initials on each coin, thereby certifying the process, the exact weight and its authenticity.
The nominated engraver was Gregoria Sellán Gonzalez who saw his work live on in the design of the coins of Alfonso XII and in the first two struck by his son Alfonso XIII.

The seals on these coins are the following:
Engraver: G.S. Gregoria Sellán Gonzalez

Assayers and Weigh Masters:
DE M: Eduardo Diaz Pimienta, Julio Escosura Tablares and Ángel Mendoza Ordoñez
EM M: Julio Escosura Tablares, Mauricio Morejón Bueno and Ángel Mendoza Ordoñez
MS M: Mauricio Morejón Bueno, Pablo Salas Gabarrell and Ángel Mendoza Ordoñez
MP M: Mauricio Morejón Bueno, Félix Miguel Peiró Rodgrigo and Ángel Mendoza Ordoñez

Description and wording on the Alfonso XII 25 pesetas coins

Coins from 1876

ALFONSO XII (1874-1885)
Year: 1876
Gold: Ley 900 milesimas
Diameter: 24,09 mm
Weight: 8.08 gr.
Striated edge
Description
Obverse: ALFONSO XII – POR LA G. DE DIOS 1876/76 (between stars with six points). Head facing right. G.S. (Gregoria Sellán) shown at the bottom of the neck. Pointed fringe.
Reverse: REY CONSTL-DE ESPAÑA D.E. 25 PESETAS. Crowned, draped arms in the collar of the golden fleece and covered under the Royal cloak with the arms of Castilla, León, Aragón, Navarra and Granada; in the centre the Bourbon coat of arms. Pointed fringe. (Information extracted from Book: Gold Coins from the Collection of the Bank of Spain).

Coins from 1881

ALFONSO XII (1874-1885)
Year: 1881
Gold: Ley 900 milesimas
Diameter: 24.11 mm
Weight: 8.07 gr
Striated edge
Description
Obverse: ALFONSO XII – POR LA G. DE DIOS 1881/81 (between stars with six points. Head facing right. G.S. (Gregoria Sellán) shown at the bottom of the neck. Pointed fringe.
Reverse: REY CONSTL-DE ESPAÑA D.E. 25 PESETAS. Crowned, drapped arms in the collar of the golden fleece and covered under the Royal cloak with the arms of Castilla, León, Aragón, Navarra and Granada; in the centre the Bourbon coat of arms. Pointed fringe. (Information extracted from Book: Gold Coins from the Collection of the Bank of Spain).

The manufacturing of these coins started in 1876, with the King’s image being reversed in order to distinguish them from the copper and silver coins. In 1962 a special commission was made by an American company based in Switzerland who made a prepayment both for the stipulated costs and the profits. Original stamps were used with the print date of 1961 and 1962 appearing between the stars.
On the edge of the coins there is an engraving of 27 lily flowers comprised of three groups of nine each.
For the manufacturing proofs and quality check on the engravings, copper coins were used which were subsequently destroyed to avoid them being put into circulation after being gold plated.

In 1881, it was decreed that the king’s image be updated and the result of this shows a great difference compared to the initial one from 1876. Such differences were not so noticeable in the mints from 1876, 1877, 1878, 1879 and 1880 where only slight changes can be seen to the head and features of Alfonso XII.

After his death, all the coins (with the exception of the 2 pesetas) continued to be minted upon the order of his wife, Maria Cristina of Habsburg, until 1886 when his son Alfonse XIII was born and a year later Sellán made the first design with the image of the successor and thereby resumed the task of manufacturing the coins, a period which saw the issuing of the 20 and 100 pesetas coins.

Why do we consider that this is a good coin to buy?

The 25 pesetas coin is one of the most popular in the catalogue of gold coins which are currently in circulation in Spain, and which are also in demand from individuals from other countries who are interested in its historical and financial value. Given that it is one of the most known, its premium can increase considerably in times of crisis, thus acquiring values which are attractive and well-positioned in the world of offer and supply, which happened with the Napoleon in France, for example, and which can reach a premium of 100% during times of crisis.

We should recall that the premium is the difference between the price of the precious metal from which the coin is made and its market price, and that its value depends on many factors which we have explained in our article: “The Premium on Gold Coins”.
It is a type of coin destined to be saved in the future given its good condition and quality.

Translated from an original article by Lizette Paternina

20 PESOS OBVERSE

Description of the gold pesos coins.

The 2, 2.5, 5 and 10 pesos coins all bear the same inscriptions and engravings:
-  The obverse of the coin has the inscription “ESTADOS UNIDOS MEXICANOS” (United States of Mexico) which straddles an eagle that is standing and grasping a serpent in its mouth. The eagle is standing on a crown made from an oak branch and an olive branch. The eagle is the National symbol of Mexico: for Mexicans it is the representation of the duality between the earth and the sky. It also symbolises the conflict that delivers Good over Evil. There is a legend which surrounds this eagle: the old city of Tenochtitlan, today Mexico City, was built in the place where the Aztecs once saw an eagle flying off carrying a serpent in its beak.

20 PESOS REVERSE

- the reverse of the coin shows the value of the coin and the year in which it was minted. The coin is the effigy of Michel Hidalgo, a revolutionary and abolitionist. Michel Hidalgo is an emblematic figure of Mexico: a priest, a rebel and a revolutionary whose insurrection triggered the country’s process of independence. He first proclaimed independence on 16 September 1810 and then abolished slavery on 6 December. On 30 July 1811 the Inquisition had him shot for his crimes.

The 20 pesos coin

The obverse of the coin has a motif which represents the eagle striking down the serpent. The reverse of the coin shows a representation of the Aztec calendar from the Tiahuanaco Sun Gate. The Sun Gate is one of the vestiges of the Aztec civilization and is considered by several researchers as a astronomic sign.

Date on the gold pesos coins

• Note on the 10 pesos coin: From 1961 to 1972, 954,983 coins were re-minted with essentially the year 1959. In 1996 , matt remints were created.

What is the interest in Mexican gold pesos coins?

Above all the interest in these coins is numismatic. But there is only a small step from numismatic to profitable investment! Why? Because these coins are ever more rare and their value can never fall below that of gold itself under any circumstances. To be clear: buying Mexican pesos in an opportunity to combine asset protection with pleasure.

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This new venture, LinGold.com, has something for every budget and is very user friendly.

They have plenty of pertinent and interesting information (free to download) on why, how and what to invest such as their LinGold Brochure and of course our favourite the LinGold Gold Coin Guide which helps the novice and expert alike.

LinGold.com, we applaud your arrival and wish you every success for the future.
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Alternative Currencies are not new!

Around the world there are numerous examples of local currencies which have been introduced to promote local business, local produce, customer loyalty and awareness to trade issues and climate control. They all tend to be run in parallel to the national currency but are based on creating a thriving local, fully functioning economy incentivised by promotions and discounts. In recent years they have been launched in the UK as part of the Transitions Towns initiative and these include the Totnes Pound, The Brixton Pound, The Stroud Pound and the Lewes Pound. Lewes had previously had introduced its own currency in 1789 which lasted until 1895. These pounds are obtained by exchanging pounds sterling for equivalent face value “local” pounds. Various denominations have evolved such as th 5, 10 and 21 Lewes pounds issued in 2009. There have also been schemes in the US such as the BerksShares in Massachusets which are bought for 95 cents yet worth $1. These are available in 1,5,10,20 &50 denominations. Similarly there have been examples in Canada with the Toronto Dollar, the Calgary Dollar and also in Australia with the Baroon Dollar. Most of these initiatives have been launched since 2006 or later and may well be a local solution in the fightback against the worldwide economic problems. They are viewed as trustworthy currency with real value to the local economy and in certain cases well-meaning because of the positive impact they have on local services and properity. Although these models function locally they do demonstrate a widening appeal for taking control of currency and introducing stability to the functioning of an economy.

Are National Economies really functioning?

If they are then for who are they functioning- surely not the majority?
What’s happened to the Utopia of Globalisation?
One has to ask where we are heading with the daily drivel of mixed messages to suit the medias demand for sound bites and politicians short term ambitions for themselves far outweighing the long term requirements of the National interest (daily or decades of proof – take your pick!).

What can be said of today’s global currencies which are currently being prostituted by their governments in a global exchange war to meet their “protectionism” objectives by stealth. Who is controlling their value and to what end?

The “trust” in these currencies is gradually being eroded to the point that Central Banks and the big ”clever” money of investors are seeking sanctuary in what may be the only true trustworthy currency – physical gold.
This is fine for the multi-billionaires of this world like George Soros who can afford vaults of the stuff but what about the smaller investor.
A clue may be in Switzerland where Faude & Hauguenin, celebrated goldsmiths, have recently produced 2,000 Goldhans for a private customer who is a swiss businessman with specialist expertise in the gold market. These beautiful pîeces are 99.99%, 31.1g of pure gold with an individual value of 1,400 swiss francs ( £915 ). Was this really his own idea? He is in negotiations with several banks about the purchase of Goldhans and he’s even considering a move to make them official currency and legal tender. Is this a statement of intent regarding the lack of confidence in the Euros, Dollars or Swiss Francs he would normally use – obviously for him the value of Gold is a sure one. Is it a statement of intent regarding the destiny of any paper currency that has lost the market confidence its value is based on?

Is it time to think that Gold may well become the only currency we can truly rely on?

It may also be time to consider exactly what is a trustworthy currency for the future and will it be issued by central banks or entrepeneurs we can trust?
For the moment it’s not possible and the Swiss National Bank forbids the circulation of all “new” money. These Goldhans are not yet ready to take the place of the Vreneli and in legal terms they are merely round ingots with serial numbers in a limited edition.
So why raise this example? Well it demonstrates the interest that some may have in creating a “private” money or currency of confidence at a time when traditional currency is losing its appeal on a daily basis in the unpredictability of ever fluctuating foreign exchanges around the world.

So, could this Swiss busineesman’s Goldhans one day become a type of alternative to the so called real currencies? A Currency of Confidence with ongoing real lasting and meaningful value? A dream or reality? We shall see……. when the austerity measures around Europe are judged, deficits reduced or not and belief in the status quo of currency and its current custodians is ultimately maintained or evaporated.

Paul McGOWAN

We are at a period of time where religion in India was at a crossroads and the Guptas  were said to be responsible for patronizing a new temple based religion recognized as Hinduism. However, Kamuragupta  ( AD415-455) still practiced ancient Vedic rituals

Commemorating King Kumaragupta's horse sacrifice

Normally gold coins would feature the king or ruler on the obverse of the coin but this coin of King Kumaragupta I features a magnificent tethered stallion ordained with banners and ribbons. It symbolises the ashvamedha ( horse sacrifice) the Vedic ritual of legitimizing the conquests of a honourable and pious king. The reverse features the queen with ritual instruments for the ceremony. The Sanskrit around the rim says “King Kamuragupta the supreme lord who has conquered his enemies”

The Ashvamedha could only be conducted by a king. Its object was the acquisition of power and glory, the sovereignty over neighbouring provinces, and general prosperity of the kingdom. This was immensely expensive and is usually only performed once in  a Kings life time.

The horse to be sacrificed must be a stallion, and it is ritually purified and the sacrificer whisper mantras into its ear. The horse is then set loose towards the North-East, to roam around wherever it chooses, for the period of one year. Anyone who should stop the horse is ritually cursed, and a dog is killed symbolic of the punishment for the sinners. If the horse wanders into neighbouring provinces hostile to the sacrificer, they must be subjugated. The wandering horse is attended by a hundred young men, sons of princes or high court officials, charged with guarding the horse from all dangers and inconvenience but manly to stop it mating thus keeping it pure.

Reverse with the queen and ceremonial instruments

After the return of the horse, more ceremonies are performed. It is and bathed and anointed with ghee by the chief queen and two other royal consorts. The chief queen anoints the fore-quarters, and the others the barrel and the hind-quarters. They also embellish the horse’s head, neck, and tail with golden ornaments.  The king performs the sacrifice with a golden Knife. It concludes with the eulogy “May this Steed bring us all-sustaining riches, wealth in good kine, good horses, manly offspring”

First Indian Coins

Based on the available evidence today, it appears that the concept coins as means of trading (money), was developed by three different civilizations independently and almost simultaneously. Coins were seen in Asia minor, India and China in 6th century BC. Most historians agree that the first coins of world were issued by Greeks living in Lydia and Ionia around 650 BC using Electrum a natural alloy of gold and silver . However some historians have suggested that coins were minted in India as long ago as the 8^th Century BC.

What is beyond doubt that the first coins of India were minted just before 5th century BC in central India. Archaeological evidence confirms that the Indians were minting coins between 5th to 6th century BC. Coins are also mentioned  in ancient literature from 500 BC.

The Indians love of gold continues to this day as the world number one consumer of the precious metal.

Maurice Hall

We are not numismatists and our concern is only with gold and silver coins as an investment so the grade is not as critical as it is for a collector of rare coins. Nevertheless the condition of a coin is important and numismatists agree that in most cases the condition of the coin is more important than its rarity.

There are key grades and grades between these grades so it is often easier to start with buckets, Circulated, Almost Uncirculated and Uncirculated.

The coin should be graded on its weakest side, look for overall wear and loss of design detail such as strands of hair, feathers or coats of arms.  Detecting wear can be made more difficult where relief is low particularly applicable to coins of Edward VII and George V

Some tips for sovereigns

The majority of Sovereigns since 1820 contain Benedetto  Pistrucci’s fantastic engraving of St. George slaying the dragon and there are some high points that can indicate wear.  Look at the helmet above the eye this is the first place wear occurs, the strap across St George’s chest, the fingers on the hand, signs of wear on the reins, relief of the sword against the flank. This reverse covered a number of monarchs on the obverse. In general look for detail of the ears on males and hair on females.

Look at the example below of a 1918 Halfcrown. With examination under magnification the slightest rubbing can be seen on the ear, cheek and moustache. A very nice coin but not Uncirculated

1918 Halfcrown AU (About Uncirculated) American AU58-59

KEY GRADES

I have listed the Key grades below with some sample coins of various denominations to give an idea of grading but please remember this is subjective and maybe variable in the eyes of the expert who would examine with magnification.

Poor: A very worn coin but better than a smooth disc. Inscriptions worn off, date illegible, only outline of design visible. Such coins are generally of no value to a collector.

Fair: A heavily worn coin but date and denomination legible, type recognisable. Very little detail visible , worth no more than the metal value

Penny Fair American F2

Good (G): (sometimes Mediocre) Inscriptions and date considerably worn but legible. Generally worth no more than the metal value

Very Good (VG): Considerable wear over the whole coin, and high spots worn through. Coins in this or the previous grades are really only collectable if extremely rare and generally worth no more than the metal value

Fine (F): Worn over whole area, but only the highest spots are worn completely through. Some of the hair volume should be visable but not individual strands (US Grade about VF)

Farthing F (Fine) American F12-14

Very Fine (VF): Detail clear, but obvious evidence of limited circulation. High spots worn but detail remains. More hair detail is evident and also detail of other designs. Traces of mint lustre may linger amongst the letters of the inscription. (US Grade about XF)

Sixpence VF (Very Fine) American VF25-30

Extremely Fine (EF): A coin with little sign of being circulated. Slight wear on high spots on close inspection, and all other detail clear and sharp with minimal scratches and marks. Much mint lustre may remain. (US Grade about AU)

Half Penny EF(Extremly Fine) American XF40 - 44

Almost Uncirculated (AU): Not quite in Uncirculated condition could be down graded because of heavy bag marks, edge knocks or other undesirable feature but without the slight wear that determine it to be EF, would usually contain more than half of its mint luster.

Florin gEF (Good Extremly Fine) American AU About Uncirculated AU55

Uncirculated (UNC): No wear, although it is possible for the design not to be fully struck up in the minting process. Not perfect as there may be bag abrasions and knocks through mass production. The coin should have most of its mint luster present. Older coins may be tarnished or toned.

Shilling UNC ( Uncirculated) American MS60-62

Brilliant Uncirculated (BU): There will be no visible signs of wear or handling and ideally no bag marks.  Usually implies full mint lustre, in other words no toning or tarnish.

Half Penny BU (Brilliant Uncirculated) American MS67-69

FDC: (Fleur de Coin) Perfect mint state, with no abrasions or marks, and full lustre. Usually applied to proof coins only, as coins intended for circulation are in contact with others during production.

Penny FDC (Fleur De Coin) American MS70

Proof: Not a condition, but the coin has been struck using specially prepared dies and polished blanks, and the minting process has been carried out usually twice with extra pressure to ensure the die is filled. A characteristic of proof coins is that they have very sharp edges because of the high pressures used to ensure that the metal flows into all details of the design.

All the above photographs are by courtesy of Wybrit British Coins

The table below attempts to show in detail the Key Grades in bold and grades in between

Maurice Hall