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COINS & BANKNOTES OF ISLAND NATIONS

Most of these small island nations have a relatively small population, so they need fewer coins. This results in many hard to find coins due to their low mintage.

ANDAMAN AND NICOBAR ISLANDS COIN SET  

Native wildlife is featured on this set of seven unofficial 2011 dated coins from the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. The territory, located in the Indian Ocean, consists of 572 islands, of which just 38 are permanently inhabited. Denmark, Austria and Britain all attempted to colonize the islands. Britain eventually turned it into a penal colony. Japan occupied it in World War II. They are now a Union Territory of India. Over the years the indigenous inhabitants have been almost completely wiped out by disease, land encroachments and punitive military expeditions. Most of the few hundred that remain maintain a steadfast independence, refusing all outside contact. The bi-metallic 20 Rupees pictures a Nautilus. The bi-metallic 10 Rupees depicts a Dugong. An Indian Wild Boar is on the 5 Rupees. A Coconut Crab is shown on the 2 Rupees. The 1 Rupee has a Kuhl’s Flying Gecko. A Stork-billed Kingfisher is on the 50 Paisa and the Anadman clubtail butterfly is on the 25 Paise. The arms of the islands is on the obverse of each coin. Only 10,000 sets were minted.

INDIVIDUAL COINS FROM THE ABOVE ANDAMAN AND NICOBAR COIN SET:

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FIRST MAN ON THE MOON COINS FROM ASCENSION STRUCK IN TITANIUM

One of NASA's main tracking stations for the Apollo 11 lunar landing mission as well many other missions is located Devil’s Ashpit on the eastern side of Ascension Island.  Ascension commemorated the 50th anniversary of the First Man on the Moon with this limited edition 2019 1 Crown coins struck in gray titanium.  The coin features an astronaut on the surface of the moon saluting the American flag.  The Lunar Module is in the background.  The planet earth rises above.  The NASA logo is also featured in the design.  Queen Elizabeth is on the obverse.  The coin is 36.1mm, has a mintage of 7,500 and come in a box with a Certificate of Authenticity.   

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RARE SHRIMP ON COPPER-NICKEL & PINK TITANIUM ASCENSION COINS

Ascension Island depicted Procaris ascensionis, a rare species of shrimp, on their 2018 copper-nickel and pink titanium 1 Crown coins.  The shrimp are endemic only to two rock pools on Ascension, the largest is only about 15 feet (4.5m) wide and 18 inches (45cm) deep.  Both versions of the coin have the same design featuring a pool of the shrimp on the reverse and Queen Elizabeth on the obverse. The pink titanium version is 36.1mm in diameter, comes in a box with a Certificate of Authenticity and has a mintage of 7500 pieces.  The copper-nickel (CN) version is 38.6mm and has a mintage of 10,000 pieces.

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TRIGGERFISH ON TITANIUM AND COPPER NICKEL COINS OF ASCENSION ISLAND

A Queen Triggerfish (Balistes vetula) is featured on purple titanium and copper-nickel 2019 1 Crown coins of Ascension Island. The large oval-shaped reef dwelling fish is so named due to its unique spines on its anterior dorsal fins which are used to lock the fish into a crevice during the night.  The first spine locks and the second spine unlocks, like a trigger.  This prevents predators from pulling them free or swallowing the fish.  Queen Elizabeth is on the obverse.  The titanium version is 36.1mm, weighs only 10 grams, has a mintage of 7,500 and comes in a box with a Certificate of Authenticity.   The copper-nickel version is 38.6mm and has a mintage of 10,000 pieces. Both coins have the same design and are Brilliant Uncirculated.

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ATTRACTIVE AND UNUSUAL BAHAMAS COIN SET 

This five coin set from The Bahamas features attractive designs, unusual shapes and an unusual denomination.  The 2015 1 cent features three starfish.  The 2015 5 cents depicts a pineapple.  The 10 cents has scallopped edges, features a pair of bonefish and is dated 2010.  The 2005 square 15 Cents is an unusual shape and and unusual denomination.  A Bahamian Sloop is on the 2007 dated 25 Cents.  The National Arms of The Bahamas is on the obverse of each coin.  All five coins are Brilliant Uncirculated.

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CUTTY SARK ON BRITISH INDIAN OCEAN TERRITORY COIN

The Cutty Sark was one of the last and fastest British Tea Clipper Ships ever built.  She was launched 1869, the same year the Suez Canal was opened.  The China - London Tea trade was intensively competitive.  The first ship to arrive received numerous accolades and a premium for her tea.  It was a long journey lasting over 100 days, crossing the Indian Ocean and rounding the Cape of Good Hope before returning to England.   Though steam ships had much higher fuel costs, they proved more reliable, had lower insurance costs, and had a substantially shorter journey by using the Suez Canal, which was not suitable for sailing ships. The Cutty Sark sailed just eight tea trips from China before being moved to the Australia wool trade, then to other cargos. In 1892 she was sold to a Portuguese firm. 1922 she was the last clipper ship operating in the world, though by then her condition had deteriorated.  She was spotted by a retired British sea captain who purchased her in order to preserve the historic ship.  Her rigging was restored to and the she was used as a training vessel until about 1950.  In 1954 she was transferred to a permanent dry dock and is now a popular museum ship. This 2 Pound coin of the British Indian Ocean Territories commemorates the 150th anniversary of the building of the Cutty Sark.  It depicts the ship in full sail and the route she took from China to England as she traveled near the British Indian Ocean Territory.  Queen Elizabeth is on the obverse of the 38.6mm copper-nickel coin.  The coin has a mintage of just 10,000 pieces. It is a magnificent coin featuring a magnificent sailing ship that was the ultimate example of what was an obsolete technology.

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RED FOOTED BOOBY ON TITANIUM AND COPPER NICKEL COINS OF BRITISH INDIAN OCEAN TERRITORY

The Red Footed Booby is a large sea bird, which as the name suggests, has red feet.  They are powerful and agile flyers that can dive into the sea at high speed in order to catch small fish and squid.  Its take-off and landing skills however leave a lot to be desired.  A mother Booby and her chick are featured on these 2019 dated 2 Pound coins of the British Indian Ocean Territory. The coin was minted in both red titanium and copper-nickel with identical designs. The titanium version is 36.1mm, weighs only 10 grams, has a mintage of 7,500 and come in a box with a Certificate of Authenticity.   The copper-nickel version is 38.6mm and has a mintage of 10,000 pieces. Both coins are Brilliant Uncirculated.

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BRITISH INDIAN OCEAN TERRITORY SEA LIFE COINS IN TITANIUM & COPPER-NICKEL

The British Indian Ocean Territory consists of the 55 islands of the Chagos Archipelago in the Indian Ocean. It is the home of some of the world’s cleanest oceans and has a vast array of marine wildlife.  In 2018 the British Indian Ocean Territory featured two giant species, the Manta Ray and the Coconut Crab, on coins struck in both titanium and copper-nickel.  The Manta Ray is a gentle giant of the ocean, reaching as much as 23 feet (7 meters) across and weighing almost 3000 pounds (1350 kg.).   They are harmless to humans and feed on microscopic zooplankton. The coin shows a Manta Ray skimming above the coral covered ocean floor followed by a group of Remoras. The Coconut Crab is the world’s largest Land Arthropod and an incredibly impressive looking crab.  It can weigh over 9 pound (4kg.) and its leg span can reach over 3 feet (1 meter).  It can live over 60 years. They are found throughout Indonesia, Indian Ocean and parts of the Pacific. Although their name suggests that they primarily feed on Coconuts, this is not the case and coconuts make up as small proportion of their diet. They can however be found climbing the Coconut Palms and occasionally using a broken coconut shells as protection. Recent footage has shown a coconut crab hunting a Sea bird! Once they get hold of the bird, their powerful claws easily break the bird’s wings and then more crabs that smell the kill will descend on the defenseless bird! Coconut crabs have been extensively hunted on islands where there is a human population as their flesh is considered both a delicacy and an aphrodisiac. When the tables are turned and they manage to pinch a human, they can cause considerable pain and will not release their grip for a long time. One technique used to free someone from their powerful grip is to tickle their underbelly!  The coin shows two large coconut crabs, one on the ground feasting on the flesh of a coconut and the other climbing a coconut palm.  The 2018 dated coins are denominated as 2 Pounds and come in two metals.  The Titanium coins are 36.1mm, weigh just 10 grams (about a third of an ounce), have a mintage of 7,500 pieces each and come in a capsule in a presentation box with a Certificate of Authenticity. The Manta Ray titanium coin is dark blue, while the Coconut Crab is struck in golden-brown titanium.  Because of the way the metal reacts and technical difficulty in striking titanium, the color of each coin is slightly different.  The copper-nickel coins are 38.6mm, weigh 28.28 grams and have a mintage of 10,000 each.  Queen Elizabeth is on the obverse of all the coins.

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FLAMINGO COIN FROM BRITISH VIRGIN ISLANDS

The British Virgin Islands released a 2015 dated copper-nickel 1 Dollar coin featuring flamingos. The attractive coin depicts a flamingo wading in shallow water, with some of its favorite snacks shown just below the surface.  A flock of flamingos is in the background and the bright sun overhead.  The 38.6mm copper-nickel coin depicts the Ian Rank-Broadley portrait of Queen Elizabeth is on the obverse.

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SHARKS ON 2016 TITANIUM COINS OF BRITISH VIRGIN ISLANDS  

The British Virgin Islands released 2016 coins depicting two different sharks: the Lemon Shark and the Great White Shark. The Lemon Shark is a stocky and powerful animal often found in shallow subtropical waters.  The shark’s yellow coloring serves as a perfect camouflage when swimming over the sandy sea floor of its coastal habitat.  The Great White Shark is a species of large shark which can be found in the coastal waters of all the major oceans.  The lifespan of great white sharks is estimated to be as long as 70 years or more making it one of the longest lived fish currently known.  It has no natural predators other than the Orca.  The coin shows an underwater scene looking up at the Great White Shark.  Both designs were struck in colored titanium. The titanium coins are denominated as 5 Dollars, are 36.1mm in diameter, but weigh only 10 grams (about a third of an ounce).  They have a mintage of only 5000 pieces each and come in a capsule and presentation box with a Certificate of Authenticity.  The Lemon Shark coin is struck in yellow titanium.  The Great White Shark is struck in Turquoise Titanium. Queen Elizabeth is on the obverse. 

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BEAUTIFUL BRITISH VIRGIN ISLANDS 2017 WILDLIFE COINS

The British Virgin Islands released attractive new 2017 1 Dollar coins featuring native wildlife.  One depicts a ...  The other features a Marlin leaping from the ocean.   The 38.6mm copper-nickel coins have a mintage of just 10,000 each.  Queen Elizabeth is on the obverse. The coins are Brilliant Uncirculated.

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BEAUTIFUL BRITISH VIRGIN ISLANDS 2017 PEGASUS PROOF DOLLAR

The Pobjoy Mint recently released this beautiful .999 fine 1 troy ounce Reverse Proof Pegasus 1 Dollar coin on behalf of the British Virgin Islands.  The 2017 dated coin has a mintage of just 50,000 pieces.  Queen Elizabeth is on the obverse. Each has been struck four times to produce a stunning frosted-finish background with the design sculpted in striking relief.  The story of Pegasus begins when Perseus is sent to kill one of the three Gorgons – Medusa who had writhing snakes instead of hair.  It was said that anyone unfortunate enough to gaze on her face would turn to stone.  The God Hermes and the Goddess Athena came to aid Perseus with special gifts, including a shield which Perseus used as a mirror so he did not look directly at Medusa.  When Perseus beheaded Medusa it is said that Pegasus was born from the blood of the Gorgon.  After Pegasus had helped Perseus rescue Andromeda, he was carried to Mount Helicon where he was entrusted to the care of the Muses.  Another hero, Bellerophon, wanted to capture Pegasus but could not work out how to tame such a magnificent creature.  After being advised to sleep in the temple of Athena, Bellerophon saw the goddess before him holding a golden bridle.  When he awoke he was alone but the bridle remained.  He ran from the temple and found Pegasus drinking at a spring.  Bellerophon put the charmed bridle on the winged horse’s head with little difficulty and, with the bridle in place, Pegasus became gentle and tame and Bellerophon became his master. 

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2018 BRITISH VIRGIN ISLANDS PEGASUS VIRENIUM & SILVER DOLLAR COINS 

With the overwhelming popularity of the 2018 British Virgin Islands Pegasus silver dollar, Pobjoy mint repeated the design on a British Virgin Islands dollar minted in Virenium.  Both coins depict Pegasus, the mythical horse, rearing up with his wings spread. Queen Elizabeth is on the obverse. Virenium is an alloy of copper, zinc and nickel developed by Derek Pobjoy named after his wife Verena. The Virenium dollar is 28.4mm and has a mintage of only 4000 pieces.  The .999 fine 1 troy ounce silver dollar is 38.6mm, has a mintage of 50,000 pieces and has a frosted reverse Proof finish.

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BEAUTIFUL BRITISH VIRGIN ISLANDS UNA AND THE LION DOLLARS

Una and the Lion is one of the most beautiful, popular and expensive of all British coins.  The gold 5 Pound coin was struck for the coronation of Queen Victoria in 1839. One recently sold for $188,667.  The design, created by sculptor William Wyon, was based on Edmund Spenser’s poem Faerie Queene which tells the tale of Princess Una after St. George had slayed the dragon and rescued her. During the course of her travels, Una met a lion who was so mesmerized by her beauty he became her companion and protector.  On the coin Una was modeled after 19-year old Queen Victoria.  The Lion is a traditional symbol of Britain. Thus the design is an analogy for Victoria leading Britain.  The legend ‘DIEU ET MON DROIT’ meaning ‘God on my Right’ is the motto of the British monarchy.  The British Virgin Islands recreated this beautiful design, initially on a silver dollar, and now on a copper-nickel dollar to commemorate the 200th anniversary of the birth of Queen Victoria.  The obverse features Queen Elizabeth, the great, great granddaughter of Queen Victoria.  Both are 38.6mm and denominated 1 Dollar.  The silver version has a frosted Brilliant Uncirculated finish and contains 1 troy once of .999 fine silver and a mintage of 50,000 pieces..   The copper nickel version has a mintage of just 10,000 pieces.  They are attractive coins at affordable prices.

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BRITISH VIRGIN ISLANDS 2019 PORCUPINE FISH COIN IN YELLOW TITANIUM & COPPER-NICKEL

The British Virgin Islands issued these 2019 coins depicting a Porcupine Fish in both Golden Yellow Titanium and copper-nickel.  Both coins have the same design, depicting Queen Elizabeth on the obverse and the unusual fish in a puffed-up state on the reverse.  The fish has the unusual ability to increase its size by almost double vertically by swallowing air.  This, and its sharp spines which radiate outward when the fish is inflated help discourage predators.  The golden yellow titanium version is denominated 5 Dollars, is 36.1mm, has a mintage of 7,500 and come in a box with a Certificate of Authenticity.   The copper-nickel version is denominated 1 Dollar, is 38.6mm and has a mintage of 10,000 pieces.

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POPULAR 1977 COOK ISLANDS COIN SET  

This Cook Islands 1977 7-coin set includes the 1 Cent to the 1 Dollar. The 38.5mm 1 Dollar shows Tangaroa, the very well-endowed male god of fertility.  A Bonito fish is on the 50 Tene coin.  A Fairy Tern in flight is on the 20 Cents. The 10 Cents shows an orange and a Hibiscus is on the 5 Cents. The 2 cents shows a pineapple and the 1 cent shows a Taro leaf.  Queen Elizabeth is on the obverse of all the coins.  

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UNUSUAL COINS FROM THE COOK ISLANDS

This recent three coin set from the Cook Islands contains some unusual coins.  The obverse of all three coins portrays the Ian Rank-Broadley portrait of Queen Elizabeth.  The reverse of the 2010 1 dollar coin is much more interesting however. It portrays the very well-endowed fertility God Tangaroa.  The copper-nickel coin has a scalloped edge.  The 2010 triangular 2 Dollar  pictures a ceremonial morter and pestle.  The 2003 12 sided 5 dollar coin pictures a conch shell. 

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BIMETALLIC 2010 COOK ISLAND DOLLAR 

The reverseo of this 2010 bi-metallic 1 Dollar coin from Cook Islands features the very well-endowed fertility God Tangaroa. The design is a perennial favorite with both coin collectors and non-collectors. The 15 stars along the edge represent the 15 Islands that make up the Cook Islands. The Ian Rank-Broadley portrait of Queen Elizabeth is on the obverse of the 26mm Brillian Uncirculated coin.   

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2015 COOK ISLANDS COIN SET INCLUDES ODD SHAPES & INTERESTING DESIGNS

Cook Islands released into circulation a new series of 2015 dated coins in conjunction with the islands 40th anniversary of independence. Most of the coins utilize previously used designs, however the coins are struck in different sizes or metals.   The 1, 2 and 5 dollar coins are similar in size to the previous issues, however are struck in aluminum bronze. The 10, 20 and 50 Cents are struck in nickel-plated steel and are smaller than previous issues. The coins were struck at the Royal Australian Mint.   The twelve-sided 5 Dollar coin depicts a Vaka, a traditional double-hulled sailing ship.  The triangular 2 Dollar coin portrays a ceremonial mortar and pestle.  The scalloped edged 1 Dollar features the very well endowed fertility god Tangaroa.  A tuna is on the 50 Cents, a Fairy Tern bird on the 20 Cents and an orange on the 10 Cents. The Ian Rank- Broadley portrait of Queen Elizabeth is on the obverse of each of the coins.  It is a new and attractive set with unusual shapes and some interesting designs. 

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COIN FROM TINY COMORO ISLANDS

Comoros is a small group of islands located between Mozambique and Madagascar. In ancient times it was visited by Phoenician traders, and later by Arab sailors.  It came under French protection in 1886. For many years it was under the administration of French controlled Madagascar and used Madagascar coins.  After Madagascar gained independence in 1960, Comoros needed its own coinage. This 1964 2 Francs was one of the first coins  issued for Comoros since the 19th Century.   The obverse of the 27mm aluminum pictures Marianne, who is the symbol of the French Republic, and a group of cargo ships.  The reverse features palm trees and coconuts.  The coin was struck at the Paris mint and is Brilliant Uncirculated.

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CYPRUS EURO COIN SET  

The Euro coins reflect that nations long history and culture.  The Mouflon, a native wild sheep, is on the 1, 2 and 5 eurocents, an ancient sailing ship on their 10, 20 and 50 eurocent and the ancient Idol of Pomos, a prehistoric fertility sculpture dating from about 3000BC on their bimetallic 1 and 2 Euro coins. The coins have the name of the island in both Greek and Turkish.

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RECENT SILVER COINS OF THE EAST CARIBBEAN STATES

The East Caribbean Central Bank recently issued coins for each of its member nations.  The tiny island nations all utilize a common currency called the Eastern Caribbean Dollar.  The Proof-like 1 troy ounce .999 fine, 39mm legal tender coins are denominated two Eastern Caribbean Dollars.  The coins have a common reverse depicting Queen Elizabeth within a wreath.  Each nation has a distinctive obverse reflecting a unique aspect that country.  Anguilla depicts a stylized lobster.  Antigua and Barbuda features a rum runner and his sailing ship.  Dominica shows a woman watching Boeing 314 Clipper "Flying Boat".  The design was derived from an old Pan-Am travel poster for Tahiti.  Grenada depicts divers exploring a shipwreck and coral reefs. The Montserrat coin incorporates the coat-of-arms of Montserrat along with portions of the British and American flags.  Montserrat is called "The Emerald Isle of the Caribbean" both for its resemblance to coastal Ireland and for the Irish ancestry of many of its inhabitants.   Because of volcanic activity the southern half of the island, including its former capital and main airport, have been abondened. St. Kitts & Nevis features a pellican and sail boats.  St. Lucia depicts two flamingos.  St. Vincent and The Grenadines depicts a a seaplane landing.  They are attractive coins from nations that rarely issue their own coins.

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2011 FAROE ISLANDS COINS 

These 2011 dated unofficial pattern coins picturing native wildlife are the first issues for the Faroe Islands in 70 years!  The Faroe Islands (also spelled Faeroe,  Faoroe, Føroyar or Færøerne) is a self-governing Danish possession in the North Atlantic between Scotland and Iceland.   The 8 coin set includes a 35mm tri-metallic 50 Kronur featuring a Ram's head.  The 27mm aluminum-bronze 20 Kronur features a Gray Seal.   The 23mm 10 Kronur pictures a Twait Shad fish.  A Eurasian Oystercatcher bird is onthe 28.5mm cupro-nickel 5 Kronur. The 24.5mm cupro-nickel 2 Kronur shows a Black Guillemot in flight. An Atlantic Puffin is on the 20mm cupro-nickel 1 Krona.   A Faroes or Shetland Sheep Dog is on the 21.5mm copper-plated zinc 50 Oyru. The 17.5mm copper-plated zinc 25 Oyru pictures a Common Shore Crab. The obverse of each of the coins features the Faroe arms which depict a Ram.  Only 10,000 sets of these attractive pattern coins were issued.
INDIVIDUAL COINS FROM THE ABOVE FAROE SET

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ATTRACTIVE & UNUSUAL PRE-DECIMAL FIJI COIN SET 

This pre-decimal set from the Pacific island nation of Fiji includes the 1/2, 1, 3 and 6 Pence coins.  The copper-nickel 1/2 and 1 Penny have a large center hole.  The 1/2 Penny was struck only a single year: 1954.   The 1967 brass 3 Pence depicts a native hut one side on the reverse.  The copper-nickel 6 Pence has a turtle on the reverse and was struck from 1953 to 1956.   Both feature Queen Elizabeth on the obverse.  The 1/2 and 3 Pence are Uncirculated, the 1 Penny and 6 Pence grade VF to XF.

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2012 FIJI COIN SET FEATURES WILDLIFE & CULTURE   

In 2012 Fiji released a new series of six coins.  The portrait of Queen Elizabeth was replaced by native wildlife and descriptions were added to the reverse designs.  The 5 Cents depicts a Nuga roro (Bi-color Foxface Rabbitfish) on the obverse and a wooden drum, called a Lali, on the reverse.  A Beka Mirimiri (Fiji Flying Fox) is on the 10 cent. It is one of the world’s rarest animals.  There have been only three recorded sightings of it, the most recent in 2009.  An "i ula tavatava" war club is on the reverse.  The 20 cent features a Kakā (Kadavu Shining Parrot) on the obverse and a Tabua on the reverse.  A tabua is the polished tooth of a sperm whale that is used as a ceremonial gift.  The 50 Cent pictures a Varivoce (Humphead Wrasse) on the obverse.  It is one of the world’s largest reef fishes.  The reverse features a Camakau, which is a native sailing canoe.   The $1 coin features the Vokai (Banded Iguana) on one side and a samaqamoli, which is a multi-chambered drinking vessel that is used only by chiefs.   The new 2 Dollar coin features the Ga ni Vatu (Peregrine Falcon) on the obverse.  The reverse depicts a Tanoa which was formerly depicted on the now discontinued 1 Cent   The Tanoa is used for drinking Kava, a sedative.   The coins are all Uncirculated.

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FIJI CELEBRATES THE GREAT CITIES OF THE WORLD

Fiji recently released a series of six gold-plated, rectangular, multi-colored coins featuring “Great Cities of the World”.  Each coin features an iconic picture of the city on the obverse and the Fiji coat-of-arms on the reverse.  The 2015 dated coins are denominated 1 Dollar.  Included are Berlin, London, Moscow, New York, Sydney and Tokyo (somehow Grover Beach was not included). The obverses depict the coat-of-arms of Fiji and the date. The coins are 45mm x 26mm and are Brilliant Uncirculated.

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FIJI COMMEMORATES RUGBY OLYMPIC GOLD WITH COIN & $7 DOLLAR BILL 

Fiji's Rugby Sevens won that countries first ever Olympic Gold medal at the 2016 Rio Games.  To honor the team and commemorate the event Fiji issued an unusual 7 dollar bill and a circulating commemorative 50 cent coin. The  front of the 7 dollar bill is in a vertical format and features team captain Osea Kolinisau.  Behind him is the flag of Fiji.  Below is team coach Ben Ryan and the depiction of two winning tries being scored. A watermark, in the shape of a rugby ball, depicts leading ball carrier Savenaca Rawaca.  The back is in a horizontal format and depicts the winning Olympic team along with team officials and the Prime Minister of Fiji. When placed under an ultraviolet light, the gold medals worn by the players are visible in gold color.  It is an attractive, colorful note with many security features and is the only circulating seven dollar bill in the world today.  The 2017 dated 26.5mm nickel-plated steel coin depicts Head Coach Ben Ryan sitting contemplatively on the beach as shown on the note.  Next to him is the Fiji national arms.  The other side of the coin features the team on the Olympic podium.  

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GREENLAND TRI-METALLIC PATTERN COIN

Greenland was discovered and colonized by the Vikings in the 10th Century. By the early 15th Century the Viking settlements had died out or were abandoned and Inuit settled Greenland.  In 1721 Denmark began to recolonize the island and made it a crown colony of Denmark of in 1924.   In 1979 Greenland voted to be and autonomous region under Denmark.  There is an active independence movement. In 2010 a coin dealer in the United States struck this unofficial pattern (prove) tri-metallic 50 Kroner for an independent Greenland.  The coin depicts a dog sled team on one side and the Polar Bear arms of Greenland on the other.  The 34.2mm coin features a copper outer ring, brass middle ring and a copper-nickel center. 

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LAST CIRCULATING COIN OF GUADELOUPE

Guadeloupe is an overseas region of France located in the Caribbean. It was discovered by Columbus in 1493 and was settled by the French in 1635.  With the importation of thousands of African slaves, vast sugar plantations and trade with the American colonies it grew fantastically wealthy, so much so that in 1763 under the Treaty of Paris, France gave up its Canadian colonies in exchange for keeping Guadeloupe.  Today the economy is largely dependent on tourism, agriculture and subsidies from the French government. This 1921 50 Centimes of Guadeloupe was one of the last circulating coins ever issued for Guadeloupe. Guadeloupe now uses the Euro.  The obverse of the 18-sided 22mm copper-nickel coin depicts a native Arawak man with feathers on his headband.  The reverse has a sugar cane stalk.  The coin is rarely found in nice grade due to the ravishes of the tropical Caribbean climate.

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OLD COINS OF THE OF BALIWICK OF GUERNSEY

The Bailiwick of Guernsey is located off the coast of France.  It has been a British possession since the Norman Conquest in 1066.  For many years they used a coinage system called the "Double" that was based on the medieval French Double Tournois.  Eight Doubles was equivalent to a British Penny.  Guernsey issued three coins in 1956: a bronze 4 Doubles depicting a Guernsey lily, a bronze 8 Doubles with 3 lilies and a scalloped, copper-nickel 3 Pence picturing a Guernsey cow.  Guernsey’s next coin issue was in 1959, when they issued just the 8 Doubles and 3 Pence.  The 8 Doubles was the same as the 1956 issue.  The 3 Pence had the same design, but was thicker.  The obverses of all the coins Guernsey’s coat-of-arms which depicts three stylized lions. The coins are Uncirculated, though may be slightly toned.

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RECENT GUERNSEY COIN SET     

Guernsey is British a crown dependencies in the English Channel off the coast of France. Along with Jersey, it is one of the last remnants of the great medieval Dukedom of Normandy that once controlled much of France and England.    The 8 coin set from Guernsey includes the bi-metallic 2 pounds, the thick  1 Pound, the seven-sided 50 Pence that pictures Freesia flowers, the seven-sided 20 Pence depicting a map of the island, the 10 Pence depicting a tomato plant, the  5 pence pictures a sailboat, the  2 Pence features on one of the islands famed cows and the 1 Pence shows a crab.   Queen Elizabeth is on the obverse.  The coins date from 1998 to 2012 and are Uncirculated.  It is an interesting set from an almost forgotten bit of Britain.

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INDONESIA COIN SET INCLUDES NEW TYPES

This 4 coin set from Indonesia includes the 2016 100 Rupiah depicting Dr.Herman Johannes, a professor, scientist and politician, the 2008 200 Rupiah featuring a Bali Starling bird, 2008 500 Rupiah with a Jasmine flower and the 2016 1000 Rupiah picturing I Gusti Ketut Pudja, a politician who is a national hero,  The 1000 Rupiah is nickel-plated steel, the others are aluminum.   The 100 and 1000 Rupiah have the Indonesian arms next to the portrat on the obverse and the denomination on the reverse.  The 200 and 500 Rupiah feature the Indonesian arms on the obverse.  All four coins are Uncirculated.

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SCARCE IRIAN BARAT COIN  

Irian Barat, also known as Irian Jaya and West Irian, is the western half of the island of New Guinea.  It was formerly Netherlands New Guinea.  Indonesia took control of the territory in 1963.  The following year Indonesia issued special coins for exclusive use in the territory, including this Irian Barat 50 Sen.  The 29mm aluminum coin depicts Indonesian President Sukarno on one side and had the denomination on the other. Though issued in 1964, the coin is dated 1962.  It was withdrawn from circulation in 1971. The coin is Uncirculated.

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ISLE OF MAN SET FEATURES HISTORICAL LANDMARKS 

This attractive eight coin set from the Isle of Man features local historical landmarks. The bi-metallic 2 Pounds features the Round Tower at Peel Castle.  The tower dates back to the late 10th Century.  The tower was probably built as a refuge against Viking raiders.  It must not have been successful, as the surrounding Peel Castle was built a few years later by the Vikings.   St. John's Chapel and Tynwald Hill are on the 1 Pound.  Milner's Tower is on the seven-sided 50 Pence.  The tower was built in 1871 to honor William Milner, a safemaker who did much to help the fishermen and poor of the local community.  The tower's unusual shape represents a key.   The seven-sided 20 Pence pictures the Castle Rushen Clock.  The unusual one-handed clock was presented by Queen Elizabeth I in 1597.  The 10 Pence pictures the Chicken Rock lighthouse, located on the southernmost island administered by the Isle of Man.  The Tower of Refuge is on the 5 Pence.  The Tower It is a small castle located on a partially submerged reef in Douglas Bay.  It was built as a place where shipwrecked sailors could seek refuge while they awaited rescue.  The tower, completed in 1832, was kept stocked with fresh water and bread and offered shelter from the weather and the sea.  The 2 Pence pictures Albert Tower, which was built in 1847 to commemorate the visit Prince Albert and Queen Victoria. The 1 Pence pictures the Stanton War Memorial, built to commemorate those that died in World War I.   All eight coins are dated 2010, depict Queen Elizabeth on the obverse, and are Uncirculated. 

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JAMAICA COINS HONORS NATIONAL HEROES 

This set includes the six coins Jamaica currently issues for circulation, from 10 Cents to 20 dollars, dating from 1996 to 2006, plus a bonus 1991 multi-sided aluminum 1 cent, which has been withdrawn from circulation.   The bi-metallic 20 dollar coin pictures Jamaican born Marcus Garvey, a vocal advocate of Black Pride in New York City during the 1920's. He also appears on the appears on the bimetallic 20 Dollar coin and the copper-plated steel 25 Cent coin.  The scalloped edged 10 Dollar coin pictures George William Gordon, a 19th century politician who tried to improve the well being of Blacks in Jamaica. Paul Bogle his associate appears on the 10 cent coin.  Both were hanged in 1865 for their efforts.  Norman Manley appears on the 5 Dollar coin, while Alexander Bustamante is on the seven-sided dollar coin.  They both  helped Jamaica gain independence.   The 1 Cent depicts Ackee fruit.  The fruit was imported to Jamaica from West Africa in the late 1700's, probably on a slave ship.  It has since become a staple of Jamaican cuisine.   The Jamaican coat-of-arms is on the obverse of each coin.

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KIRIBATI COINS FEATURE NATIVE WILDLIFE

Kiribati is a group of 30 small islands spread out over a million square miles (2,560,000 sq. km.) in the Pacific Ocean with a population of only about 100,000.  It was once the site of nuclear testing ground and had large phosphate deposits; however the phosphate has been mined out and it is now one of the poorest nations in the world.  This two coin set includes the copper-nickel 1979 5 cents features a Stump-tailed Gecko and the bronze 1992 1 cent depicting a Christmas Island Frigate bird. The Kiribati arms, which depict a frigate bird above the sun rising over the ocean is on the obverse of both.

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2011 LUNDY COIN SET FEATURES PUFFINS 

The coins of Lundy have been long been popular with collectors. Lundy is a small island off the coast of England, inhabited by about 30 residents as well as puffins and numerous other birds. It has been inhabited since Neolithic times by various groups including Vikings, the Knights Templar, a Sheriff who used the island to house convicts that he was supposed to deport to Virginia, and numerous pirates, including Barbary Pirates from North Africa. Today it is owned by the National Trust for the British people and is a popular destination for tourists. It is considered to be one of Britain’s greatest natural wonders. The island was purchased in 1924 by British merchant Martin Coles Harman, who proclaimed himself "king" of the island. He issued postage stamps, and in 1929 issued two coins, a bronze 1/2 Puffin and 1 Puffin, which were equivalent to the British 1/2 Penny and Penny. The coins had limited circulation on the island and were often brought home by tourists as a souvenir. The issue probably would have been forgotten if the British government had not brought Mr. Harman into court in 1930 for the "unauthorized minting of money". He was eventually fined £5 plus court costs, and the coins became an instant hit with collectors. In 1965 a second issue of the coins was made. The coins had the same designs but were struck in different metals and dated 1965. The British government wisely chose to ignore the coins. In 2011 a series of five Lundy coins was released. All the coins bear the portrait of Martin Coles Harman as it appeared on the earlier Lundy issues. Like the 1929 issues, the 1/2 Puffin portrays the head of a puffin on the reverse and the 1 Puffin portrays puffin standing on a rock. Both are struck in copper-plated zinc. The brass 2 Puffins pictures two puffins in flight. The brass 4 Puffins depicts four puffins flying around the Old Light House which was built in 1787. The 38mm copper-nickel-zinc 6 Puffins pictures six puffins flying over the Marisco Castle, which was built by Henry III. Like the original 1929 issues, the 2011 1/2, 1, 2 and 4 Puffins bear the edge inscription "Lundy Lights and Leads", which is a reference to the islands two lighthouses. They are attractive coins from a tiny but beautiful and historic island.

Item LUNDY LUNDY 5 COIN SET 1/2 - 6 PUFFINS, 2011 BU $27.50

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SCARCE MADAGASCAR 2 FRANCS

Madagascar is a large island off the east coast of southern Africa that was a French colony from 1896 until it gained independence in 1960.  This 1948 2 Francs is one of the first coins issued for Madagascar following World War II.  The obverse of the 27mm aluminum pictures Marianne, who is the symbol of the French Republic, and a group of cargo ships. The reverse features the heads of three long-horned Ankole cattle.   The coin was struck at the Paris mint and is Brilliant Uncirculated.

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ATTRACTIVE MADAGASCAR COINS HIGHLIGHT AGRICULTURAL HERITAGE

This six coin set from the Republic of Madagascar reflects the nation's agricultural heritage.  The 1 Ariary features a Pointsettia on one side and the head of a Zebu on the other.  The 2 Ariary pictures a Vanilla plant and the Zebu head.  A rice plant is featured on the 5 Ariary.  A man cutting peat is on the seven-sided 10 Ariary.  A farmer plowing a field is on the 20 Ariary.  The Avenue of the Baobabs is depicted on the eleven sided 50 Ariary.  The towering trees line a dirt road.  They are all that is left of what was once a dense forest.  The coins date from 1996 to 2005 and are Brilliant Uncirculated.  The set catalogs for $37.50, however our price is much less.

ATTRACTIVE MADAGASCAR BANK NOTE SET

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ATTRACTIVE COINS OF THE MALDIVE ISLANDS

The Maldive Islands are a group of about 2000 small, mostly uninhabited islands in the Indian Ocean. Their coins reflect their national heritage. The 1 Laari shows a native Palm tree. The 5 Laari shows two Bonito fish, as fishing is one of the main industries in the Islands. The 10 Laari portrays a native sailing ship. The 25 Laari shows the tower to a Mosque, as Islam is the nations main religion. A sea turtle is on the 50 Laari. The nation's coat-of-arms is on the 1 Rufiyaa, while a sea shell is on the brass 2 Rufiyaa.  The coins are Uncirculated.

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2017 BI-METALLIC MALDIVES COIN FEATURES SEA-SHELL  

Maldives recently released a redesigned 2017 dated 2 Rufiyaa coin featuring a Triton’s Trumpet shell.  The large shell can reach up to 2 feet (60cm) in length. The 25.5mm bi-metallic coin has a nickel-plated steel center and a nickel-brass ring.  Maldives is a chain of 26 low lying atolls spanning about 115 square miles (300 sq.km.) in the Indian Ocean.  It is one of the world’s lowest countries.  Its highest point is less than 8 feet (2.4 meters) above sea level. 

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2012 MICRONESIA COIN SET FEATURES WILDLIFE & BI-METALLICS 

The Federated States of Micronesia is an independent nation consisting of over 600 islands spread out over 1,000,000 square miles (2,600,000 square kilometers) of the Pacific Ocean. The area was claimed by Spain, sold to Germany in 1889, conquered by Japan in World War I, taken by the United States in World War II, and finally became fully independent in 1986. It uses United States dollar as its currency. This unofficial 2012 eight coin set includes the 1 Cent to the 5 Dollar. The obverse of each coin features the national seal. The word “TRIAL” is located at the top of the seal, indicating that they are trial coins rather than legal tender issues. The bi-metallic 5 Dollar coin pictures the Pygmy Killer Whale. The bi-metallic 2 Dollar coin depicts the Long-beaked Common Dolphin. A Manta Ray is on the 1 Dollar. Shells and a 19th Century proa from the island of Satawal is on the 50 Cents. A proa is an outrigger sailing boat. The 25 Cents features a Yellowfin Tuna. A Rufous Night Heron is on the dime. The 5 Cents pictures a Moorish Idol fish. A Chuuk Flying Fox Bat is on the 1 Cent. The coins were struck by Osborne Coinage in Cincinnati, Ohio. Only 10,000 sets were minted. It is an attractive, low mintage, set.
INDIVIDUAL MICRONESIA COINS FROM ABOVE SET:

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FIRST COINS OF NEW CALEDONIA

New Caledonia is a group of about 25 islands located in the South Pacific.  France took possession of the islands in 1853 after the natives ate a group of French missionaries and members of a French survey party.  The following year they established a penal colony there.  France finally issued the first coins for New Caledonia in 1949 when they issued a 50 Centimes, 1 and 2 Franc.  In 1952 they issued a 5 Franc coin.  All four coins are aluminum and have the same design. The reverse features a seated figure of Maranne, the national symbol of France.  The obverse depicts a Kagu bird, which is a rare, nearly flightless bird that is only found in New Caledonia.   

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ATTRACTIVE NIUE DOLLAR DEPICTS SWORD FISH

This attractive 38.6mm copper-nickel 1 Dollar coin from the Pacific Island nation of Niue depicts a Sword Fish on the reverse and Queen Elizabeth on the obverse.  Captain James Cook named the island Savage Island in 1774, because of the hostility of the natives.  British missionaries began to arrive in the 1830’s and eventually the islanders were converted to Christianity.  Today Niue is a self-governing nation that is in association with New Zealand, which handles its defense and foreign affairs. The British monarch is the head of state. It has a population of less than 3000 and an area of about 100 square miles. 

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RUSSIAN NUCLEAR ICEBREAKER ON ULTRA-HIGH RELIEF SILVER COIN

This impressive, ultra-high relief, 1 troy ounce silver 2 Dollar coin of Niue depicts a Russian Arktika class nuclear powered icebreaker. Russia is the only nation to have built nuclear icebreakers. The huge ships are designed to break through the polar ice along the Northern Sea Route, from the Barents Sea to Bering Strait, clearing the way for cargo and other ships.  The ships were the first surface vessels to North Pole.  Since 1989, some of the icebreakers have been used for Arctic tourist cruises. The 40mm .999 fine, 1 troy ounce silver coin had an authorized mintage of 999 pieces of which only 750 were struck. The coin has a satin-antique finish.  Queen Elizabeth is on the obverse.  I am not sure what the connection is between the tropical island of Niue and a Russian nuclear icebreaker, but it is a very nice coin with an attractive ship design. 

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NIGHTINGALE ISLAND CROWN

Nightingale Island is an active volcanic island that is part of the Tristan da Cunha group.  Though it has no permanent inhabitants, Tristan da Cunha issued this 2011 dated 1 Crown coin for Nightingale Island.   The coin features a seal, the denomination and the name of the island on the reverse.  Queen Elizabeth and “Tristan da Cunha” is on the obverse.  The 39mm coin is struck in copper-nickel and is Brilliant  Uncirculated.

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PALAU "SECRETS OF THE SEA" PEARL COIN 

A real freshwater pearl is mounted in this sterling silver Proof coin. The Palau 2013 "Secrets of the Sea" 5 Dollar coin displays the pearl attractively mounted on a multi-color image of an oyster shell. The obverse features the arms of Palau. The 38.6 mm coin weighs 25 grams and has a mintage of just 2500 pieces.

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BEER BOTTLECAP SHAPED COIN CELEBRATES GERMAN BEER PURITY LAW

This unusual multi-colored silver bottlecap shaped coin was issued by Palau to celebrate the 500th anniversary of the Bavarian Beer Purity Law or Reinheitsgebot.  The original law limited the ingredients of beer to just barley, hops and water and set the prices that could be charged for beer.  The law has changed over the years, but still dictates the ingredients used in German beers today.   The 1 Dollar coin features a colored image of a pair of beer steins against the Bavarian flag on one side.  The other side has the arms of Palau.  The coin comes in a custom metal box with a Certificate of Authenticity printed on a beer coaster.  The 2016 dated coin is struck in .999 fine silver, weighs approximately 2.5 grams and is approximately 32mm in diameter.  It has a mintage of only 2500 pieces.  This unusually shaped coin  is sure to be popular with coin collectors and beer drinkers throughout the world.

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20th ANNIVERSARY PAPUA-NEW GUINEA MINT SET FEATURES WILDLIFE

The Bank of Papua New Guinea released this official 6 coin packaged mint set to celebrate the countries 20th anniversary of independence in 1995. Papau New Guinea is one of the most culturally diverse countries in the world, with over 800 spoken languages. The 1995 dated coins feature native wildlife.  The 1 Kina features Saltwater and River Crocodiles crawling around the center hole of the coin.  A Cassowary, a large flightless bird, is on the 20 Toea.  The 10 toea shows a Cuscus, a large marsupial "monkey".  A Plateless Turtle is on the 5 Toea.  The 2 Toea shows the Ornate Butterfly Cod Fish and a Butterfly is on the 1 Toea. The reverse of the coins depict an outstretched Bird of Paradise, which is the national emblem of Papua New Guinea. The Brilliant Uncirculated coins were struck at the Royal Canadian Mint and come in a descriptive folder.  It is an attractive set of wildlife coins

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PAPUA NEW GUINEA CROCODILE KINA

The Papau New Guina 1 Kina features a Salt Water Crocodile and a River Crocodile chasing each other around the center hole of the coin.  The obverse features the national crest of Papau New Guinea.  The 38.6mm nickel plated steel coin is dated 2004 and is Brilliant Uncirculated.

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PAPUA NEW GUINEA CENTRAL BANK COMMEMORATIVE NOTE AND COIN

To celebrate its 35th anniversary in 2008 the Bank of Papau New Guinea, the nation's central bank, a commemorative 20 Kina note and a bi-metallic 2 Kina coin. The bank was founded in 1973, two years before the nation achieved independence.   The back of the note features various forms of traditional currency used in Papua New Guinea, including including a boar, cowry shell necklace and beads. The front depicts the Papua New Guinea Parliament building, the bird of Paradise and a special Bank of Papua New Guinea 35th Anniversary emblem in the lower left corner.  The note has a watermark logo of the Bank and a special embedded silver thread.  The 33mm bi-metallic 2 Kina features the national emblem, an outstretched Bird of Paradise bird on the obverse. The bank's logo is on the reverse.   Because of the country's remoteness, Papau New Guinea notes and coins are difficult to obtain.

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PHILIPPINE COIN SET

This 6 coin set includes the 1, 5, 10, 25 Sentimos, 1 and 5 Piso dated 1995 to 2000.  The 1 and 5 Sentimos are both 15.5mm and both made of copper-plated steel.  The 5 Sentimos was made with a center hole to help distinguish it from the 1 Sentimo.  The 1 and 5 Piso depict Philippine heroes Jose Rizal and Emilio Aguinaldo.  Both fought for Philippines independence from Spain.  The reverse of all the coins except the 5 Sentimos depict arms of the Central Bank of the Philippines which includes the date 1993 (the year the bank was reorganized).   All six coins are Uncirculated. 

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LAND AND SEA BATTLES OF THE NAPOLEONIC WARS

Saint Helena, the island where Napoleon was exiled and died, released a series of gold-plated, multi-colored 25 Pence coins in 2013 commemorating the naval and land battles of the Napoleonic Wars.  The Napoleonic Wars was a world war before the World Wars, with battles fought on land and sea in Europe, Africa and the Americas. The wars ended with the defeat of France in 1815.  The Napoleonic Wars brought about the supremacy of the Britain as a world power for the next 100 years.  Spain lost her Empire, with the nations of Latin America gaining their independence. The map of Europe was redrawn. The Holy Roman Empire was dissolved and many tiny Germany states were consolidated. The coins come in two six coin sets, one set depicting land battles, and one depicting naval battles.  Each of the 38.6mm gold-plated 25 pence coins depicts a different battle scene in color, along with a portrait of Napoleon  The six coins depicting land battles feature the Battle of the Pyramids in 1798, Battle of Austerlitz in 1805, Battle of Jena in 1806, Battle of Borodino in 1812, Battle of Leipzig in 1813 and Napoleons final defeat in the Battle of Waterloo in 1815. Below the battle scene is a depiction of Napoleon and his troops.   The six coins depicting naval battles feature the Battle of the Nile in 1798, Battle of Diamond Rock in 1805, Battle of Trafalgar in 1805, Battle of San Domingo in1806, Battle of Basque Roads in 1809 and the Battle of Grand Port in 1810. Sailing ships are featured below each battle scene. Queen Elizabeth is on the obverse of each coin. They are reasonably priced, historical sets depicting the battles that brought about a transformation of the world. 

ALSO SEE:

FRENCH DOMAINS OF ST. HELENA CELEBRATES DEATH OF NAPOLEON

SCARCE ST. HELENA BANKNOTE FEATURES SAILING SHIPS: 50 PENCE (1979) P5

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THE LAST REMNANT OF FRENCH NORTH AMERICA:  ST. PIERRE & MIQUELON

At one time France owned a substantial portion of what is now Canada and the United States.  Few people realize that France still owns a portion of North America. It consists of two small rocky islands off the coast of Newfoundland known as St. Pierre and Miquelon.  Together their population is only 7,000.  In 1948 St. Pierre & Miquelon issued its first, and last coin, which included this aluminum 1 Franc.. The reverse pictures a cod boat and two dried cod on one side, reflecting the island's main industry. Marianne, the symbol of the French Republic on the obverse. The coins are no longer in circulation and is difficult to find.

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LAST 20 CENTAVO COINS OF PORTUGUESE ST. THOMAS & PRINCE

The St. Thomas & Prince (Sao Tome and Principe) was a Portuguese colony located off the west coast of Africa in the Gulf of Guinea. These two bronze 20 Centavos are the last of that denomination struck before it gained independence in 1975.  Both coins have the same design with the denomination on one side and the arms of St. Thomas & Prince and the date on the other.  The only difference is the 1962 issue is 18mm, while the 1971 issue was reduced to 16mm.   Coins are rarely seen from this small, little known, African island nation.

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NEW COINS OF ST. THOMAS & PRINCE FEATURE BIRDS

St. Thomas and Prince (São Tomé and Príncipe) are a former Portuguese colony off the west coast of Africa. On January 1, 2018 it did a 1000 to 1 revaluation of their currency. New coins dated 2017, were issued.  Included are the 10, 20, 50 Centimos and 1 and 2 Dobras. The coins feature the coat-of-arms on the obverse and native birds on the reverse.

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SAMOA COIN & STAMP SET

This set includes a 7 coin set and a canceled stamp from Western Samoa (now Samoa) mounted on a large, attractive card.  The coins include the 1, 2, 5, 10, 20 and 50 Sene dated 1974 and the seven-sided 1984 1 Tala in Uncirculated condition.  The set was issued as part of Franklin Mint's "Coin Sets of All Nations" program.  Due to a fortunate purchase we can offer this set at far less than its original price.

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ATTRACTIVE COMMEMORATIVE POLYMER NOTE FROM SAMOA

Samoa issued this attractive polymer 2 Tala banknote to commemorate the 50th anniversary of Malietoa Tanumafili II (also known as Susuga) as Head of State in 1990.  The front of the note includes his portrait and a view of Mulivai Immaculate Conception of Mary Roman Catholic Cathedral, fales (traditional huts) and two buses on Beach Road in the capital city of Apia.  The Cathedral was damaged in 2009 and is being rebuilt.  The back depicts a family scene and the national emblem.  The transparent window in the note features a Kava bowl.  The note was withdrawn from circulation in 2011 and replaced with a 2 Tala coin. The undated note measures 140x72mm and is Uncirculated.

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ONE YEAR TYPE FROM THE SEYCHELLES

The Seychelles is a small island nation in the Indian Ocean.  It was a British possession from 1810 until it achieved independence in 1976. This 1948 bronze 5 Cents of the Seychelles depicting King George VI was struck only a single year: 1948. It has a mintage of only 300,000 pieces.  The coin is Uncirculated, however may have some toning or minor spots from storage in the tropics.

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SEYCHELLES COIN SET FEATURES PLANTS AND WILDLIFE 

The Seychelles are a group of 85 small islands in the Indian Ocean 600 miles ( 965km.) north-east of Madagascar.  This six coin set features flora and fauna of the islands. A mud crab is on the 1 Cent. A tapioca plant is on the  5 Cents.  The 10 Cents pictures a yellowfin tuna.  A black parrot is on the 25 Cents.  A triton conch shell is on the 1 Rupee. The 5 Rupees shows a fruit tree.  The national arms supported by two sailfish, is on the reverse of each coins.  The coins date from 2010 to 2013 and are Uncirculated.

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HUMPBACK WHALES ON SOUTH GEORGIA & SOUTH SANDWICH ISLANDS COIN

A humpback whale and her calf are featured on this 2006 dated 2 Pounds coin of South Georgia and South Sandwich Islands.  Humpback whales can grow to over 50 feet (15m) in length and weigh 30 tons.  Despite their size the feed on krill and small fish.  The whales can migrate some 16000 miles (25,000km.) each year between polar waters and their subtropical and tropical breeding grounds.  We sometimes see these impressive whales breaching in the waters off of Grover Beach.  South Georgia and South Sandwich Islands are remote, inhospitable islands located some 800 miles (1300km) southeast of the Falklands. Whaling was the main industry on the islands until it was outlawed in the 1960's. Now the islands host a small a small summer population and a number of cruise ships. The 38.6mm copper-nickel coin depicts Queen Elizabeth on the obverse.

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PILOT WHALES ON 2017 SOUTH GEORGIA & SOUTH SANDWICH ISLANDS COIN

Pilot Whales are large, robust members of the dolphin family, which can weigh as much as 7000 pounds (3,200kg.) and reach a length 24 feet (7.2 meters). These intelligent marine mammals form close social bonds and live in tight-knit pods.  The Pilot Whale received its name due to a belief that the pod always follows a single leader.  This may be the reason why entire pods of Pilot Whales often strand themselves on beaches – they follow their leader even when it makes a fatal mistake.   This 2017 copper-nickel 2 Pound coin of South Georgia & South Sandwich Islands shows Pilot Whale in the foreground in the Antarctic waters with the head of a second whale appearing above the water. The top of a third whale can be seen just above the waterline in the background.  Queen Elizabeth is on the obverse.  The coin is 38.6mm in diameter and is Brilliant Uncirculated.

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SOUTH GEORGIA & SOUTH SANDWICH ISLANDS 2016 MINKE WHALE COIN

A Minke Whale swimming beneath the ocean with icebergs floating above is featured on this 2016 dated 2 Pounds coin from South Georgia & South Sandwich Islands.  The Minke Whale usually measures about 23 to 26 feet (7-8m) long and can weight as much as 10 tons.  It can dive for as long as 20 minutes and can swim as fast as 24mpg (38 km/h).  The obverse of the coin features Queen Elizabeth.  The copper-nickel coin is 38.6mm in diameter.

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MACARONI PENGUINS ON TITANIUM AND COPPER-NICKEL COINS OF SO. GEORGIA & SO. SANDWICH IS.

Macaroni Penguins are so named as the spectacular orange tufted plumes on its head. In 18th century England, a Macaroni was an individual who dressed with flamboyant or excessive ornamentation (as in the song Yankee Doodle). In the summer they breed in colonies that number many thousands of birds.  They then disburse and have been known swim 10,000 km (6,200 miles) before returning to land.  The British territory of South Georgia and South Sandwich Islands depicts four Macaroni Penguins on their 2019 Two-pound coins.  Queen Elizabeth is on the obverse.  The coins are struck in both pale blue titanium and copper-nickel with the same design.  The titanium version is 36.1mm, weighs only 10 grams, has a mintage of 7,500 and come in a box with a Certificate of Authenticity.   The copper-nickel version is 38.6mm and has a mintage of 10,000 pieces. Both coins are Brilliant Uncirculated.

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2012 TOKELAU COIN SET 

Tokelau issued its first minor coins in 2012. The five coin set features the people and heritage of Tokelau.  The copper-nickel 20 cents depicts two Tokelauans in a boat.  The copper-nickel 10 cents a Tokelauan spear fishing.  The copper-nickel 5 cents and copper 2 cents depict dancers.  The copper 1 cent pictures a fish flying over an island.   The obverses of all the coins depict Queen Elizabeth, the Tokelau flag and a native geometric pattern.  Tokelau consists of three atolls totaling about 12 sq. km. located about halfway between Hawaii and New Zealand.  It has a population of less than 1400.  It is dependent on New Zealand for economic and administrative support.  Tokelau has few natural resources, however it recently became the first nation to be completely solar powered. 

Also see:
TOKELAU 5 DOLLARS 2012 ORCAS SILVER PROOF

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TONGA COIN SET FEATURES FOOD 

The designs of this five coin set from the island nation of Tonga, also called the Friendly Islands, were created for World Food Day, and so feature staples of the local diet.  The 2005 1 Seniti pictures an ear of corn on one side and a vanilla plant on the other.  The 2002 2 Seniti features a Taro plant on the front and the cut-out paper dolls and legend “PLANNED FAMILIES - FOOD FOR ALL” on the back.   The 2005 5 Seniti features a hen and chicks on the front and coconuts on the back.   The  2005 10 Seniti has a bust of King Taufa'ahau on the front and a bunch of bananas on the back.  The 2002 20 Seniti portrays the king on the front and has yams on the back.  All coins are Uncirculated.

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ATTRACTIVE TRINIDAD & TOBAGO COIN SET

The Caribbean nation of Trinidad and Tobago issued this attractive set of five coins.  The bronze 1 and 5 cent feature native birds.  The copper-nickel 10 and 25 cent show native plant life.   You can almost hear the steel drums being played on the copper-nickel 50 cent coin.  The 50 Cents is dated 2003, the other coins date are 2012. All are Brilliant Uncirculated.

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TRISTAN DA CUNHA COINS FEATURE SEALIFE

Tristan da Cunha is a small, cloudy, wet and windy island in the mid-Atlantic with a population of about 250. Though its first permanent settlers were from the United States, it has been a British possession since 1816. It has no airstrip so is accessible only by a six-day boat trip from South Africa. During World War II it was commissioned by the Royal Navy as "stone frigate". Its main industries are fishing and the sale of stamps and coins to collectors.  This 2008 seven-coin set of Tristan da Cunha features native sealife. The large (38mm) copper-nickel 1 crown depicts a pair of whales.  The bi-metallic 25 pence features a pair of bottlenose dolphins. A crab is on the 10 pence.  The 5 pence shows a sea turtle. A violet seasnail is on the 2 pence.  The 1 pence shows a lobster. A snipe eel is on the 1/2 Pence.  Because Tristan da Cunha is a British possession, Queen Elizabeth is on the obverse.  All seven coins are Uncirculated

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TURKS & CAICOS COINS FEATURE CRITTERS

Turks and Caicos Islands is a British overseas territory in the West Indies. It has a population of only about 35,000.   It was discovered by Ponce de Leon in 1512 and settled by royalist sympathizers from the United States after the American Revolution. In 1969 the colony struck its first coin, a 38.5mm copper-nickel 1 Crown featuring the islands coat of arms on the reverse.  The arms include a conch shell, lobster and cactus, supported by a pair of flamingos with a pelican as its crest.  The coin has a mintage of only 50,000 pieces.  In 1981 it issued a 24mm copper-nickel Quarter Crown coin depicting a Spiny Lobster on the reverse.  It is the lowest denomination issued by the tiny island nation which primarily uses the United States dollar.  Both coins have the young head of Queen Elizabeth on the obverse.

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For more Island Coinage, please see:

MAUI TRADE DOLLARS

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