9/11 coin scam warning

The United States Mint had issued a 9/11 coin scam warning following a product by National Collector's Mint; "10th Anniversary September 11th Commemorative Dollar" and claims that it is a "Liberian government authorized legal tender coin." US Mint warned users that this product is not a genuine United States coin or medal. Under the Constitution, Congress has the exclusive power to coin money of the United States. Congress has delegated its authority to mint and issue coins to the Secretary of Treasury, and Congress requires the Secretary to carry out these duties at the United States Mint. Thus, the United States Mint is the only government entity in the United States with the authority to coin money.

Consumers may find the advertisements for this product confusing because the National Collector's Mint uses phrases such as "legal tender dollar." The product itself may be confusing because it bears the denomination "One Dollar." Congress did not authorize the National Collector's Mint product, and the United States Government does not endorse it. On January 2011, US Authority said they're investigating a Fake September 11 coin minted by the National Collector's Mint. Two Democratic New York congressmen, Rep. Jerrold Nadler and Sen. Charles Schumer, have accused the National Collector's Mint in Port Chester, New York, of selling bogus September 11 coins in an attempt to exploit the tragedy for profit.

The only official United States coin or medal to commemorate the 10th anniversary of the September 11th attacks is the "National September 11 Memorial & Museum Commemorative Medal," which is authorized by Public Law 111-221 (approved by the President on August 6, 2010). You can read the scam warning in US Mint website; 10th Anniversary September 11th Commemorative Dollar Alerts. I also found some news video by WPRI TV relating to that matter:

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Taiwan new commemorative banknote mayhem

I suppose to write a post about something else just now but the Taiwan new commemorative banknote mayhem news in Taiwan China Post get my intention. Yesterday, Central Bank of China (CBC) release the “Collector's Version of the Republic of China Founding Centenary NT$100 Banknotes” with 500,00 sets up for grab among collectors. Almost all the set gone few hours after the sale immediately resold for as much as NT$2,000 each, far more than the face value of NT$300 and retail price of NT$500. Each set has three NT$100 bills in it. Pictures of people line up waiting to buy the new Taiwan commemorative banknote get my attention. I had seen people lining up for new coins, notes or stamps in Malaysia but its really a mayhem in Taiwan. Look like people are rallying to get a piece of the notes.

Its all because of  local collectors and investors vied with those from Hong Kong and China for the memorabilia expected to rise in value soon. The rich investors and collectors hired  College students, housewives, and old folks with time to kill. Some speculators, armed with NT$10 million cash each, even stood in the streets outside the CBC building in downtown Taipei offering cash in broad daylight to smiling people for the prizes in their hands. The more enterprising among them, allegedly from Hong Kong, even brought mobile toilets and provided lunchboxes and cold drinks for their hired hands, who were paid around NT$180 an hour.

According to analysts, the unprecedented rush on CBC was caused by the insatiable demand for currency sets in mainland China, where such items are easily resold for a profit, especially after the Jan. 6, 2011, first CBC sale of these banknote sets. On the other hand, contract-bound local coin and banknotes dealers were so anxious to avoid being penalized for failure to deliver the sets they simply bid up the prices. The first 300,000 sets, all sold out at the beginning of the years, could then fetch a price up to NT$8,000 in a resale, more than 20 times higher than their face value and retail price. 

Source: Taiwan China Post

Nowadays, its even hard to find China Silver coins in Malaysia markets. Many of the coins had been bought by Chinese from mainland China who bought them at a very high price. What happen if this kind of frenzy@crazy thing start happening in Malaysia? Or is it already happening? You tell me. I am here just to share some interesting story that I found.

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9/11 Official Medal 2011

Everyone in this world knew what happen on 11 September 2001. Almost 3,000 people were killed in terrorist attacks at the World Trade Center in New York City. United States Mint released a 9/11 Official Medal 2011 for us to remember and honor those who perished in the attacks. The medal is authorized by Public Law 111-221, the "National September 11 Memorial & Museum Commemorative Medal Act of 2010." Its not just Americans who died in that tragedy, Malaysian who work in the World Trade Center that day also perished. 

The medal's obverse (heads side) design features Lady Liberty holding the Lamp of Remembrance. Behind her are beacons of light stretching skyward. Lady Liberty, the lamp and the light symbolize not only the immeasurable loss on that fateful day, but also the resilience and triumph of those who persevered. Inscriptions are ALWAYS REMEMBER and 2001 - 2011. The medal's obverse was designed by United States Mint Artistic Infusion Program Master Designer Donna Weaver and sculpted by United States Mint Sculptor-Engraver Phebe Hemphill.

The medal's reverse (tails) design depicts an eagle - symbolizing the strength of the survivors, the families and the Nation - against a backdrop of cascading water. The flowing water is emblematic of peace, serenity, healing and the continuity of life. Inscriptions are HONOR and HOPE. The medal's reverse was designed by Weaver and sculpted by United States Mint Sculptor-Engraver Joseph Menna.

Pricing for the 2011 September 11 National Medal is currently set at $66.95. A $10 surcharge included in the price of each medal is authorized to be paid to the National September 11 Memorial & Museum, a private not-for-profit organization overseeing the design and funding of the memorial and museum at the World Trade Center site. The funds will support the museum's operations and maintenance once it is completed. To learn more about the National September 11 Memorial & Museum, please visit http://www.911memorial.org/.

To place an order, visit http://www.usmint.gov/catalog or call 1-800-USA-MINT (872-6468). Hearing- and speech-impaired customers with TTY equipment may order by calling 1-888-321-MINT (6468). A shipping and handling fee of $4.95 will be added to all domestic orders.

Technical Specifications:

Condition: Proof

Contains: 1 ounce of silver

Diameter: 1.598 inches

Edge: Smooth

Mintage Limit: 2,000,000 (across all options)

MINT: Philadelphia or West Point

MINT MARK: P or W

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Rugby World Cup 2011 Coins

Rugby World Cup 2011 (RWC) will be starting in 2 days time. New Zealand will be hosting this year RWC starting on 9 September 2011 until 23 October 2011. 20 countries will be competing each others in 13 venues for the 7th world cup. I am not a big fan of Rugby but any big competition like this should had some collection to help us remember them when it is over. I had been searching for information on any Rugby World Cup coins for 2011 that I can find but I only found 4 Mint/coin dealers who launched such coins for coin collector.

New Zealand Post
-All Blacks Silver Proof Coin

2011 All Blacks Silver Proof Coin launched by New Zealand Post on 19 October 2010. The one ounce pure silver coin is authorised by the Reserve Bank of New Zealand and, as per all New Zealand legal tender coins, has a portrait of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II on the ‘heads’ side. On the reverse of the coin, you can see Black face with a repeating fern pattern in low-relief, All Blacks logo and One Dollar are incused in silver. Read More.

-All Blacks-Haka Silver Coin 2011

All Blacks-Haka Silver Coin 2011 is the second coin issued by New Zealand Post. The coin portrays the All Blacks performing Te Rauparaha’s famous ‘Ka Mate’ haka before a match - a performance for which they are renowned the world over.The rim of the coin is engraved with Te Rauparaha’s renowned chant of the ‘Ka Mate’ haka: “Ka mate, Ka mate! Ka ora, Ka ora!” (“Will I die! Or will I live!”). Read More.

-2011 Webb Ellis Cup Coin

New Zealand Post with the Reserve Bank of New Zealand has released an official legal tender commemorative coin featuring the Webb Ellis Cup. The Webb Ellis Cup is the trophy awarded to the winner of the Rugby World Cup. The Cup is named after William Webb Ellis, who is often credited as the inventor of rugby football. The trophy is silver gilt and has been presented to the winner of the Rugby World Cup since the first competition in 1987. Read More.

-RWC 2011 Champions Silver Proof set

New Zealand Post with the Reserve Bank of New Zealand also produced a RWC 2011 Champions Silver Proof Coin set. You will get the Webb Ellis Cup Coin and four other coins representing country that had won Rugby World Cup before;  Australia (twice, in 1991 and 1999), South Africa (twice, in 1995 and 2007), New Zealand (1987) and England (2003). Read More.

Perth Mint
-Wallabies-Men of Gold 2011

Wallabies-Men of Gold 2011 minted by Pert Mint. The coin’s reverse depicts a Wallabies player in action, holding a rugby ball. The design features the famous Wallabies green and gold colours and official logo.Issued as legal tender under the Australian Currency Act 1965, the coin’s obverse depicts the Ian Rank-Broadley effigy of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II and the monetary denomination. Read More.

South African Gold Coin Exchange
-2011 Mandela SA Rugby

The South African Gold Coin Exchange (SAGCE) launched the new 2011 Rugby Coin Set on 31 August 2011. The coin set come with a 1/2oz gold and a 1oz silver coin. The reverse of the coin feature the Springbok emblem and the reverse show Mandela’s bust with the words “A Long Walk To Freedom”. The coin set minted by Mint of Norway and has a limited mintage of 2011 sets. They also launched an exclusive 2oz Mandela Rugby Set contains a 2oz gold and 2oz silver medallion. Read More.

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South Africa 2011 Rugby World Cup Set

Another Rugby World Cup 2011 coins minted is the commemorative 2011 Mandela SA Rugby. The South African Gold Coin Exchange (SAGCE) launched the new 2011 Rugby Coin Set on 31 August 2011. The coin set come with a 1/2oz gold and a 1oz silver coin. The reverse of the coin feature the Springbok emblem and the reverse show Mandela’s bust with the words “A Long Walk To Freedom”. The coin set minted by Mint of Norway and has a limited mintage of 2011 sets. They also launched an exclusive 2oz Mandela Rugby Set contains a 2oz gold and 2oz silver medallion that features Mandela’s bust on the obverse and the Springbok on the reverse. This 2oz Springbok set has a limited mintage of 500 and also minted by the Mint of Norway.

Although South Africa was instrumental in the creation of the Rugby World Cup competition, the Springboks did not compete in the first two World Cups in 1987 and 1991 because of boycotts against South Africa. However, on their debut in the 1995 Rugby World Cup, the Springboks made South Africa proud by winning the final match against New Zealand 15 - 12. In 2007 the Springboks once again lifted the prestigious Webb Ellis Cup high by beating England 15 – 6.

This is more look like a medallion then a coin for me but I think it still a good collection to mention for Rugby World Cup 2011 Coins. You can contact South African Gold Coin Exchange at online@sagoldcoin.com to enquire about the Springbok coin set.

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RWC 2011 Champions Silver Proof Coin set

New Zealand Post with the Reserve Bank of New Zealand also produced a RWC 2011 Champions Silver Proof Coin set. You will get the Webb Ellis Cup Coin and four other coins representing country that had won Rugby World Cup before;  Australia (twice, in 1991 and 1999), South Africa (twice, in 1995 and 2007), New Zealand (1987) and England (2003). The coin minted according to their nation. Only 2011 sets a minted for this collection.

Rugby World Cup 2011 Webb Ellis Cup Coin.

Technical specification:

Denomination: One New Zealand dollar (NZD $1)

Composition

and finish: Silver proof (0.999), gold gilding (0.999)

Weight: 31.135g

Diameter: 40.0mm

Edge treatment: Milled

Shape: Round

Obverse design: Portrait of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II by Ian Rank-Broadley, England

Reverse design: The Webb Ellis Cup, selectively gold gilded and special high-relief

Mint: BH Mayer's Kunstprägeanstalt GmbH

The New Zealand Coin - exclusive to this set

The first-ever Rugby World Cup Tournament was hosted by New Zealand and Australia in 1987. The All Blacks faced a passionate French side in the Final at Eden Park and emerged victorious. The New Zealand silver proof coin has been struck from pure silver and shows an All Black in the 1987 uniform, fending off an opponent. The backdrop is a stylistic interpretation of the hammerhead shark (Mangopare) and the fern shoot (Koru) - the unique branding of RWC 2011.

Technical specification:

Denomination: One New Zealand dollar (NZD $1)

Composition

and finish: Silver (0.999)

Weight: 31.135g

Diameter: 38.85mm

Edge treatment: Milled

Shape: Round

Obverse design: Portrait of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II by Ian Rank-Broadley, England

Reverse design: All Black in New Zealand's 1987 kit fending off opponent

Mint: The Perth Mint

The Australia Coin - exclusive to this set

The Wallabies’ first victory came in 1991 in London, where they defeated the English in a close but low-scoring game. Their second triumph was in 1999 in Cardiff, Wales, against France. The pure silver Australia coin is legal tender in Australia and has been struck to proof quality. The prominent player is shown in the official 1991 Australian kit during a line-out. The coin also bears RWC’s stylised Webb Ellis Cup design in the background.

Technical specification:

Denomination: One Australian Dollar (AUD $1)

Composition

and finish: Silver proof (0.999)

Weight 31.135g

Diameter: 38.85mm

Edge treatment: Milled

Shape: Round

Obverse design: Portrait of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II by Ian Rank-Broadley, England

Reverse design: A line-out wit three Australian players from the 1991 Rugby World Cup

Mint: The Perth Mint

The South Africa Coin - exclusive to this set

South Africa entered and hosted the Tournament for the first time in 1995. Upon reaching the Final in Johannesburg, they faced the All Blacks and scored the winning drop goal in the last two minutes of extra time. Their second victory came in 2007 against France in Paris. The South African coin is 2 Rand and legal tender. Struck in proof quality fine silver, this coin pictures a player in South Africa’s 2007 kit running with the Rugby ball against a background of RWC’s stylised rugby ball image.

Technical specification:

Denomination: Two South African Rand (R2)

Composition

and finish: Silver proof (0.925)

Weight: 33.626g

Diameter: 38.725mm

Edge treatment: Milled

Shape: Round

Obverse design: The South African Coat of Arms. The word South Africa in all 11 official

languages forms a pattern around the Coat of Arms

Reverse design: A player in South Africa's 2007 kit running with the rugby ball, over Rugby World

Cup 2011 stylisied representation of a rugby ball

Mint: The South African Mint

The England Coin - exclusive to this set

In 2003 the Rugby World Cup Tournament returned to Australia and was revamped to include 20 teams and 48 matches. England and Australia were thrilled to meet at the Final in Sydney, where England obtained their first-ever Rugby World Cup Championship title during the last moments of extra time.The £5 coin has been struck from fine silver by the Royal Mint. This proof-quality coin is exclusive to this set, and captures an English player in the 2003 uniform performing a drop-kick. The background includes the stylised rugby ball fishbone graphic from the infamous Rugby World Cup Event Mark.

Technical specification:

Denomination: Five pounds (£5)

Composition

and finish: Silver proof (0.925)

Weight: 28.28g

Diameter: 38.61mm

Edge treatment: Milled

Shape: Round

Obverse design: Portrait of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II by Ian Rank-Broadley, England

(Jersey coin)

Reverse design: A player in England's 2003 kit kicking the rugby ball with the Rugby World

Cup 2011 stylised represenation of a rugby ball in the background

Mint: The Royal Mint

The item is still available at New Zealand Post website; RWC 2011 Champions Silver Proof Coin set or you can also buy them through selected New Zealand PostShop stores, at REAL Aotearoa stores in Auckland, Wellington and Christchurch, or by phoning 0800 782 677.

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2011 Webb Ellis Cup Coin

New Zealand Post with the Reserve Bank of New Zealand has released an official legal tender commemorative coin featuring the Webb Ellis Cup. The Webb Ellis Cup is the trophy awarded to the winner of the Rugby World Cup. The Cup is named after William Webb Ellis, who is often credited as the inventor of rugby football. The trophy is silver gilt and has been presented to the winner of the Rugby World Cup since the first competition in 1987. It has been held by Australia (twice, in 1991 and 1999), South Africa (twice, in 1995 and 2007), New Zealand (1987) and England (2003).

The 2011 Webb Ellis Cup Coin is the first coin in the 2011 coin programme and the New Zealand Post official Rugby World Cup 2011 product range. Government issued and New Zealand legal tender, the $1 coin is produced to the highest standards of craftsmanship. The one-ounce pure silver proof coin showcases the competition’s prize at its centre, with the Webb Ellis Cup shining through in special high-relief 24-carat gold gilding. In celebration of this prestigious event, the 2011 Webb Ellis Cup Coin is beautifully presented in a laser-engraved wooden case, lined with velvet to keep the precious collectable safe. Each case is individually numbered and comes with an individually numbered certificate of authenticity. It’s a superb way to join the build-up to the 2011 Tournament, and is destined to become a treasure for generations

Technical specification:

Denomination: New Zealand one dollar (NZD $1)

Composition and finish: Silver proof (0.999), gold gilding (0.999)

Weight: 1 ounce

Diameter: 40.0mm

Edge treatment: Milled

Obverse design: Portrait of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II by Ian Rank-Broadley, England

Reverse design: The Webb Ellis Cup, selectively gold gilded and special high-relief to provide a 3D effect, Rugby World Cup 2011 event mark

Designed by: Cue Design, Wellington, New Zealand

Mint: BH Mayer’s Kunstprägeanstalt GmbH

Worldwide mintage limit: 15,000 (of which up to 12,000 will be available as individual coins)

The item is still available at New Zealand Post website; 2011 Webb Ellis Cup Coin or you can also buy them through selected New Zealand PostShop stores, at REAL Aotearoa stores in Auckland, Wellington and Christchurch, or by phoning 0800 782 677.

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All Blacks-Haka Silver Coin 2011

All Blacks-Haka Silver Coin 2011 is the second coin issued by New Zealand Post. The coin portrays the All Blacks performing Te Rauparaha’s famous ‘Ka Mate’ haka before a match - a performance for which they are renowned the world over. Continuing the ‘black’ theme of the first All Blacks coin, the uniforms of the front three rugby players are accurately represented in full colour - all black, with the team’s fern emblem emblazoned on the rugby jersey and shorts. The second row of rugby players is beautifully engraved in fine silver. The rim of the coin is engraved with Te Rauparaha’s renowned chant of the ‘Ka Mate’ haka: “Ka mate, Ka mate! Ka ora, Ka ora!” (“Will I die! Or will I live!”). 

This coin has a limited worldwide mintage of 3,000 coins and numbered certificates of authenticity, this New Zealand legal tender coin is a precious and highly collectable keepsake of your favourite rugby team. The 2011 All Blacks Coin: the haka sits in a striking black acrylic presentation panel, offering a modern way to display this precious coin. The acrylic panel is housed within a black leatherette box, which is embossed with the All Blacks logo. This official All Blacks licensed product is a fantastic sports souvenir and makes a truly memorable gift.

Technical specification:

Denomination: One dollar

Finish: Proof

Composition: 0.999 silver

Weight: 1oz

Diameter: 40mm

Edge treatment: Smooth edge engraved with the chant "Ka mate, Ka mate! Ka ora, Ka ora!"

Shape: Round

Obverse design: Portrait of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II by Ian Rank-Broadley, England

Reverse design: The All Blacks performing the 'Ka Mate' haka before a match

Mint: BH Mayer's Kunstprageanstalt GmbH

Worldwide mintage limit: 3000 coins

Haka coin Picture by stuff.co.nz

The item is still available at New Zealand Post website; 2011 All Black-Haka Coin or you can also buy them through selected New Zealand PostShop stores, at REAL Aotearoa stores in Auckland, Wellington and Christchurch, or by phoning 0800 782 677.

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Wallabies-Men of Gold 2011

Wallabies-Men of Gold 2011 minted by Pert Mint. The Wallabies have competed in all six Rugby World Cups, and won the World Cup on two occasions – in 1991 defeating England and in 1999 defeating France. The team competes annually with New Zealand and South Africa in the Tri-Nations Series. Within this series, they contest the Bledisloe Cup with New Zealand and the Nelson Mandela Challenge Plate with South Africa. Currently, Australia is ranked second in the International Rugby Board World Rankings. The coin struck by The Perth Mint from 1oz of 99.9% pure silver in proof quality, the Wallabies – Men of Gold coin is the official coin of the Australian Rugby Union (ARU).

The coin’s reverse depicts a Wallabies player in action, holding a rugby ball. The design features the famous Wallabies green and gold colours and official logo. The design also incorporates the inscription MEN OF GOLD 2011 and The Perth Mint’s ‘P’ mintmark.

Issued as legal tender under the Australian Currency Act 1965, the coin’s obverse depicts the Ian Rank-Broadley effigy of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II and the monetary denomination.

Technical Specification:

Silver Content (Troy oz) 1

Monetary Denomination (AUD) 1

Fineness (% purity) 99.9

Minimum Gross Weight (g) 31.135

Maximum Diameter (mm) 40.60

Maximum Thickness (mm) 4.00

Designer Ryan Vanderwiel

No more than 5,000 of these coins will be issued by The Perth Mint. The coin is accompanied by a numbered Certificate of Authenticity. The coin is housed in a classic display case and presented within a coloured shipper featuring the team colours. You can still buy this coin at Pert Mint Website: Wallabies-Men of Gold 2011.

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2011 All Blacks Silver Proof Coin

2011 All Blacks Silver Proof Coin minted by New Zealand Post on 19 October 2010. The one ounce pure silver coin is authorised by the Reserve Bank of New Zealand and, as per all New Zealand legal tender coins, has a portrait of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II on the ‘heads’ side. The 2011 All Blacks Coin is the first commemorative coin release from New Zealand Post, under an exclusive licensing agreement with the New Zealand Rugby Union. On the reverse of the coin, you can see Black face with a repeating fern pattern in low-relief, All Blacks logo and One Dollar are incused in silver.

The 1 oz silver proof coin has been struck in 0.999 pure silver with a black reverse face. The coin is unmistakably All Blacks, and the black background is given even more impact with the fern design rendered in low-relief and clearly visible when viewed from different angles. Shining through in the centre of the coin is the ‘one dollar’ denomination and the official All Blacks logo shown in the strength of pure silver.

Technical specification:

Denomination: New Zealand one dollar (NZD $1)

Composition: Pure silver (0.999)

Finish: Silver proof

Weight: 1 ounce

Diameter: 40.0mm

Edge treatment: Milled

Obverse design: Portrait of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II by Ian Rank-Broadley, England

Reverse design: Black face with a repeating fern pattern in low-relief. All Blacks logo and One Dollar are incused in silver.

Mint: BH Mayer’s Kunstprägeanstalt GmbH

Worldwide mintage limit: 10,000 coins

The item is still available at New Zealand Post website; 2011 All Black Coin or you can also buy them through selected New Zealand PostShop stores, at REAL Aotearoa stores in Auckland, Wellington and Christchurch, or by phoning 0800 782 677.

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First Floating Commemoration

World’s first floating commemoration to mark the 500th anniversary of the maiden voyage of the Mary Rose revealed by Royal Mint early this month. A replica of the Mary Rose £2 coin was put on the ship resting place in the Solent. The ship was launched in 1511 and sank in 1545 during an engagement with French fleet. The three meter replica coin is a reproduction of the £2 Mary Rose coin released by the Royal Mint earlier this year.

Shane Bissett, the Royal Mint’s Director of Commemorative Coin commented "We produced the Mary Rose coin as a tribute to the world’s only surviving Tudor warship – and hope it serves as a reminder of Britain’s rich heritage as a maritime nation. In our 1,000-year history, we have never ‘floated’ a coin before, but there seemed no better way to celebrate the 500th anniversary of such an iconic vessel. Collaborating with the Mary Rose Trust and the Royal Navy Fleet Diving Squadron to execute the idea at sea was an honor, as we remember our naval past and look to its future."

John Lippiett, Chief Executive of the Mary Rose Trust said "We are delighted to continue our relationship with the Royal Mint following production of the Mary Rose £2 coin. We have much work to do to secure the future of the ship and we are grateful to everyone who supports our fundraising drive to help us build the new Mary Rose Museum here in Portsmouth Historic Dockyard. Building work is underway and we plan to open it before the end of 2012. Our hope is that people will send a Mary Rose £2 coin back to us here in Portsmouth to help us achieve our target."

Lieutenant Commander Richard Watson, Chief of Staff at the Royal Navy Fleet Diving Squadron added "Not only does the Mary Rose play an important part in Britain’s military history, but the story of this Tudor warship appeals to naval personnel and civilians alike. We were able to combine some of our training with this task and are proud to help the Royal Mint commemorate the Mary Rose and hope that the new £2 coin helps keep her memory alive."

The Mary Rose £2 gold proof coin will find its way into our change this year. Only 1,511 22 carat gold commemorative coin have been struck, reflecting the year of the Mary Rose’s maiden voyage. The coins have also been struck in sterling silver and pristine, uncirculated versions are available to buy in limited numbers.

Mary Rose £2 Gold Proof Coin

The reverse features an intricately detailed depiction of the Mary Rose that was inspired by the only known contemporary painting of her. It was created by John Bergdahl FRBS who explains: ‘After a trip to the museum currently the home to the Mary Rose, I was immediately inspired by the only acknowledged painting of this iconic vessel – an image that I used as the basis for my design.’

Technical Specification:

Denomination: M

Alloy: 22 Carat Gold

Weight: 15.976 g

Diameter: 28.40 mm

Minted: 1,511 pcs

Source: Royal Mint

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New Zealand Mint Star Wars Coins

Today, New Zealand Mint has released their New Zealand Mint Star Wars Coins. The item will only be available for shipping starting 1 November 2011. The coins have an official license from Lucasfilm Ltd and a legal tender to Niue Island. The series will be limited mintage and will surely be a collector items for Star Wars and coins collector fan. Currently they have 2 packages of 1 oz Silver; Darth Vader and Millenium Falcon sets. They also have a Silver Plated base metal coins with 10 Star Wars character, they are planning to release 40 of such item.

1. Star Wars Millenium Falcon coin set

For a 1oz of pure silver coins, New Zealand Mint will be producing two set of packaging. Each set come in four coins. The Star Wars Millenium Falcon set representing the rebel alliance. You will get four coins featuring a full coloured image of your favourite character duos of Luke Skywalker / Princess Leia, Obi-Wan Kenobi / Yoda, R2-D2 / C-3PO, Han Solo / Chewbacca and a Millenium Falcon Ship box. Open the Millennium Falcon case and hear authentic movie sound effects of the ship’s iconic “jump to light speed”. Read More.

2. Star Wars Darth Vader coin set

For a 1oz of pure silver coins, New Zealand Mint will be producing two set of packaging. Each set come in four coins. The Darth Vader set will be representing the dark side. You will get four coins featuring a full coloured image of the dark side including Darth Vader, Emperor Palpatine, Death Star, Stormtrooper and a Darth Vader case. Open the Darth Vader case and hear authentic movie sound effects of Darth Vader breathing. Read More.

3. Star Wars $1 Silver Plated Coins

New Zealand Mint has launched their Star Wars $1 Silver Plated Coins. The coins will be legal tender coin set for Niue. A total of 40 coins will be released as Silver Plated base metal coins, and a unique 40 coin holder will be available later. For now, you can start to order your ten Silver Plated base metal coins. Read More.

You can order and buy your coin sets directly from New Zealand Mint; Star Wars Legal Tender coins.

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Star Wars Darth Vader coin set

For a 1oz of pure silver coins, New Zealand Mint will be producing two set of packaging. Each set come in four coins. The Darth Vader coin set will be representing the dark side. You will get four coins featuring a full coloured image of the dark side including Darth Vader, Emperor Palpatine, Death Star, Stormtrooper and a Darth Vader case. Open the Darth Vader case and hear authentic movie sound effects of Darth Vader breathing. Only 7,500 of each coin will be issued by the New Zealand Mint. The coins are legal tender of Niue Island.

The first series includes eight 1oz 999 Silver coins depicting the characters of the Star Wars movies packaged in two unique four coin sets. The coins feature a full coloured image of Darth Vader, Emperor Palpatine, Death Star, and a Stormtrooper. The obverse of the coin features The Raphael Maklouf effigy of Her Majesty the Queen Elizabeth II sovereign of the commonwealth of Niue.

The silver coin series will be packaged as two unique sets of four coins. One will be the Darth Vader head, and the other the Millennium Falcon ship, representing the dark side and the Rebel Alliance. Open the Darth Vader case and hear authentic movie sound effects of Darth Vader breathing. Open the Millennium Falcon case and hear authentic movie sound effects of the ship’s iconic “jump to light speed”.

Each Star Wars set comes with an individually numbered certificate of authenticity issued by New Zealand Mint

Technical Specification:

Purity: 1oz Fine Silver 999

Country of Issue: Niue

Year of Issue: 2011

Denomination: $2

Diameter: 40mm

Finish: Proof Like

Mintage: 7,500

Price: USD391.66 including shipping

You can order and buy your coin sets directly from New Zealand Mint, read here; New Zealand Mint Star Wars coins.

Other related Star Wars Coins:

• Star Wars Millenium Falcon coin set
• Star Wars $1 Silver Plated Coins

Read More...

Star Wars Millenium Falcon coin set

For a 1oz of pure silver coins, New Zealand Mint will be producing two set of packaging. Each set come in four coins. The Star Wars Millenium Falcon coin set representing the rebel alliance. You will get four coins featuring a full coloured image of your favourite character duos of Luke Skywalker / Princess Leia, Obi-Wan Kenobi / Yoda, R2-D2 / C-3PO, Han Solo / Chewbacca and a Millenium Falcon Ship box. Open the Millennium Falcon case and hear authentic movie sound effects of the ship’s iconic “jump to light speed”. Only 7,500 of each coin will be issued by the New Zealand Mint. The coins are legal tender of Niue Island.

The first series includes eight 1oz 999 Silver coins depicting the characters of the Star Wars movies packaged in two unique four coin sets. The coins feature a full coloured image of your favourite character duos of Luke Skywalker / Princess Leia, Obi-Wan Kenobi / Yoda, R2-D2 / C-3PO, Han Solo / Chewbacca. The obverse of the coin features The Raphael Maklouf effigy of Her Majesty the Queen Elizabeth II sovereign of the commonwealth of Niue.

The silver coin series will be packaged as two unique sets of four coins. One will be the Darth Vader head, and the other the Millennium Falcon ship, representing the dark side and the Rebel Alliance. Open the Darth Vader case and hear authentic movie sound effects of Darth Vader breathing. Open the Millennium Falcon case and hear authentic movie sound effects of the ship’s iconic “jump to light speed”.

Each Star Wars set comes with an individually numbered certificate of authenticity issued by New Zealand Mint

Technical Specification:

Purity: 1oz Fine Silver 999

Country of Issue: Niue

Year of Issue: 2011

Denomination: $2

Diameter: 40mm

Finish: Proof Like

Mintage: 7,500

Price: USD391.66 including shipping

You can order and buy your coin sets directly from New Zealand Mint, read here; New Zealand Mint Star Wars coins.

Other related Star Wars Coins:

• Star Wars Darth Vader coin set
• Star Wars $1 Silver Plated Coins

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Star Wars $1 Silver Plated Coins

Anyone of you out there is a Star Wars die hard fan? "Use the force Luke" and buy these coins. Today, New Zealand Mint has launched their Star Wars $1 Silver Plated Coins. The coins will be legal tender coin set for Niue. A total of 40 coins will be released as Silver Plated base metal coins. For now, you can start to order your ten Silver Plated base metal coins. The coin shipment will start available only on 1 November 2011. The Silver Plated coins will be priced at USD19.99 a piece plus shipping. No more than 50,000 of each coin will be issued by the New Zealand Mint.

The first ten Silver Plated base metal coins include characters of the Star Wars movies. The coins feature a full coloured image of your favourite characters: Luke Skywalker, Princess Leia, Obi-Wan Kenobi, Yoda, R2-D2, C-3PO, Han Solo, Chewbacca, Darth Vader, and Emperor Palpatine. The obverse of the coin features The Raphael Maklouf effigy of Her Majesty the Queen Elizabeth II sovereign of the commonwealth of Niue.

The base metal coins will be sold an individual coins in a sealed blister pack. A 40 coin holder will be available to purchase shortly which will hold all coins in this series.

Technical Specification:

Purity: Silver Plated / Cu/Zn

Country: Niue

Year: 2011

Denomination: $1

Diameter: 40mm

Finish: Brilliant Uncirculated

Mintage: 50,000

Price: USD19.99

Shipping: Product available from 1 November 2011

You can order and buy your coin sets directly from New Zealand Mint, read here; New Zealand Mint Star Wars coins.

Other related Star Wars Coins:

• Star Wars Darth Vader coin set
• Star Wars Millenium Falcon coin set

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Royal Canadian Mint Wildlife Photography Contest

Royal Canadian Mint partnering with Canadian Geographic, inviting all Canadians to participate in their fourth annual Canadian Wildlife Photography of the Year contest. Photo that will win the contest will have a chance to be featured on a superbly-crafted collector coin, issued by the Royal Canadian Mint in 2012. You have until 2nd September 2011 to submit and join Royal Canadian Mint Wildlife Photography Contest.

Canadians can submit a maximum of ten photographs of Canadian wildlife in any of the five contest categories: Amphibians, Reptiles and Insects; Birds; Mammals; People and Pets; and Junior Photographer (ages 15 and under). In addition to featuring the grand prize winner's entry on a collector coin, the Mint will also award prizes to the contest's five category winners, 10 runner-ups and 15 honourable mentions.

“The Royal Canadian Mint is always proud to showcase wildlife through the work of talented Canadians on coins whose designs and craftsmanship captivate collectors, in Canada and around the world,” said Ian E. Bennett, President and CEO of the Royal Canadian Mint. “We are thrilled to collaborate with Canadian Geographic in a unique contest which brings together thousands of photographers from across Canada to celebrate the wealth and variety of our wildlife heritage.”

“Photography is one of the cornerstones of Canadian Geographic and we are thoroughly delighted to partner with the Royal Canadian Mint on the 4th annual Canadian Wildlife Photography of the Year contest,” said André Préfontaine, President and Publisher of Canadian Geographic.

“Our partnership with the Royal Canadian Mint enriches the contest and featuring the grand prize winning photograph on a collector coin offers an unparalleled opportunity for Canadian photographers,“ André said.

The grand prize winner and five category winners will see their entries published in the December 2011 issue of Canadian Geographic. Additionally, the amazing work of the category winners will be showcased in a wildlife photography exhibit which will make its debut at Ottawa's Canadian Museum of Nature in 2012.

To find out more about this year's contest, submit entries or admire the work of past winners and runners-up, the public is invited to visit www.canadiangeographic.ca/wildlifephotography.

For more information, please contact:

Alex Reeves

Senior Manager, Communications

Royal Canadian Mint

Tel: (613) 949?5777

reeves@mint.ca

André Préfontaine

President and Publisher

Canadian Geographic Enterprises

Tel: (613) 745-4629, ext.135

prefontaine@canadiangeographic.ca

Source: Royal Canadian Mint

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Latvia new coin bring controversy

Latvia new coin bring controversy when their own country health ministry write a protest letter to Bank of Latvia that the new coin is just a way to advertise alcohol. The Cupro-nickel coin was released earlier this month for Latvia solstice festival, where people will drink beers for the celebrations. The new Latvia coin controversy just making many Latvian queuing up outside the bank's branches to get the coin.

"The coin contradicts our efforts to cut down on the consumption of alcohol in society," the health ministry complained. It seems that the Bank of Latvia's press release accompanying the issue of the new coin caught the health ministry's eye too. It waxed lyrical about beer's positive qualities, noting that it was a well known cure against insomnia and had been used in the past for semi-medical purposes.

"After water and tea, beer is the third most popular beverage in the world," the Bank of Latvia enthused. "The builders of the Egyptian pyramids were given three vessels of beer a day."

A spokesman for the bank dismissed the health ministry's criticism as "not serious" however. "We might as well ban national traditions and the midsummer solstice itself (according to their logic)," he said.

Obverse: The large coat of arms of the Republic of Latvia, with the year 2011 inscribed below, is placed in the centre. The inscriptions LATVIJAS and REPUBLIKA, each arranged in a semicircle, are above and beneath the central motif respectively.

Reverse: A beer mug is in the centre, with the inscription 1 LATS beneath it.

Edge: Two inscriptions LATVIJAS BANKA, separated by rhombic dots.

Technical Specifications:

Face value: 1 lats

Weight: 4.80 g

Diameter: 21.75 mm

Metal: cupro-nickel

Minted by: Koninklijke Nederlandse Munt (the Netherlands).

Artists: Juris Dimiters (graphic design) and Andris Vārpa (plaster model)

Source: Telegraph.co.uk, Bank of Latvia.

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Transformers 3-1oz Silver Proof Trio

The sci-fi blockbuster Transformers broke box office records on its opening weekend in North America in 2007. Based on the popular 1980s Television series, Transformers attracts audiences from around the world. The latest highly anticipated sequel, ‘Transformers: The Dark of the Moon’ will hit screens on 29 June 2011. The Perth Mint has issued three new coloured commemoratives portraying the characters of Bumblebee, Optimus Prime and Megatron; Transformers 3-1oz Silver Proof Trio.

All three coins incorporate the inscription TRANSFORMERS and The Perth Mint’s ‘P’ mintmark. Issued as legal tender under the authority of the Government of Tuvalu, each coin’s obverse depicts the Raphael Maklouf effigy of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II and the 2011 year-date.

Technical Specification:

Silver Content (Troy oz) 1

Monetary Denomination (TVD) 1

Fineness (% purity) 99.9

Minimum Gross Weight (g) 31.135

Maximum Diameter (mm) 40.60

Maximum Thickness (mm) 4.00

Designer Wade Robinson

The Transformers 3 coin is produced with authority from Dreamworks Paramount and Hasbro. The coin is struck from 1oz of 99.9% pure silver in proof quality. With only 5,000 pcs coins minted for each Transformers 3 coins by the Perth Mint. The coin is accompanied by a numbered Certificate of Authenticity. Housed in a clear display box, the coin is presented in a spectacularly illustrated shipper You can order this coin onlive via Perth Mint website. You will get a cheaper price for a complete Transformers 3-1oz Silver Proof Trio. Only 3 trio packs per customer.

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Transformers 3-Megatron Silver Proof

The Perth Mint The movie "Transformers: The Dark of the Moon" will start its worldwide screening on 29 June 2011. Perth Mint has released a trio coins for the Transformers Coins: Bumblebee, Optimus Prime and Megatron. The Perth Mint has just released this outstanding Transformers 3-Megatron Silver Proof commemorative coin. Long ago, Megatron was admired as one of Cybertron’s greatest champions, but over time, intense pride corrupted him. Using his unmatched power and rage, Megatron rules the Decepticons with an iron fist. He will do anything in his power to destroy Optimus Prime and the Autobots and claim the Universe for himself.

The coin’s reverse features a coloured depiction of Megatron and includes the Deceptacon logo. The design also features the inscription TRANSFORMERS and The Perth Mint’s ‘P’ mintmark.

Issued as legal tender under the authority of the Government of Tuvalu, the coin’s obverse depicts the Raphael Maklouf effigy of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II and the 2011 year-date.

Technical Specification:

Silver Content (Troy oz): 1

Monetary Denomination (TVD): 1

Fineness (% purity): 99.9

Minimum Gross Weight (g): 31.135

Maximum Diameter (mm): 40.60

Maximum Thickness (mm): 4.00

Designer: Wade Robinson

The Megatron coin is produced with authority from Dreamworks Paramount and Hasbro. The coin is struck from 1oz of 99.9% pure silver in proof quality. With only 5,000 pcs coins minted for Megatron coins by the Perth Mint. The coin is accompanied by a numbered Certificate of Authenticity. Housed in a clear display box, the coin is presented in a spectacularly illustrated shipper You can order this coin onlive via Perth Mint website.

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