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MICRO NATION & UNOFFICIAL COINS

Micro-nations, Cinderellas, coins of tradition, unauthorized issues, unofficial issues, unrecognized nations and coins from places that do not even exist.
These are popular with many collectors due to their attractive designs, historical connections and many have very moderate prices in relation to their tiny mintages.
ALSO SEE:
COINS OF AMERICAN INDIAN NATIONS

COINS OF WESTEROS - GAME OF THRONES

COINS FROM THE STATE OF NUMISMA

The State of Numisma is a virtual state created by Russian numismatist Vladimir Startsev that was founded in 2000.  Its citizens live all over the world and every citizen may call himself or herself a citizen of Numisma.  In 2015 it issued a bimetallic 50 Numismaru commemorating the 50th birthdays of Vladimir and his wife Elena.  The coin depicts them both on the obverse and a map of the world on the reverse.  The 27mm Proof coin was struck at the Moscow Mint.  In 2025 Numisma issued a 60 Numismaru coin for its 25th anniversary and the 60th birthdays of Vladimar and Elena.  One side features a sailing ship and a map of the world. At the bottom is Vladimir's monogram.  The other depicts a silhouette of Vladimir and Elena. Below them is the river cruise ship "Alexander Green" of the Mosturflot travel company.  Vladimir and Elena are big fans of river cruises.  At the bottom are monuments and buildings from important cities in their lives:  born in Lugansk, studied in St. Petersburg and live in Moscow. The 39mm silver-plated Proof coin has a mintage of only 120 pieces.

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OSPREY AND DUGONG ON HAWAR COIN

Hawar is an archipelago in the Persian Gulf just off the coast of Qatar.  It was settled by a Bedouin clan in the early 19th century.  Ownership of islands were the center of a territorial dispute between Bahrain and Qatar that was finally settled by the International Court of Justice in 2001, with control of the islands going to Bahrain.  The islands are now uninhabited other than a hotel and a police station on the main island.  One side of the this unofficial 5 Dihars of Hawar features an Osprey and a Dugong.  The coat of arms is on the other side.  The 2025 dated six-sided silver plated Proof coin has a mintage of only 120 pieces.

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LOYALTY ISLANDS COIN FEATURES WHALE AND WHALER

This 2025 dated 500 Francs of the Loyalty Islands (Iles Loyaute) depicts a breaching whale as seen from the deck of a whaling ship.  The first recorded contact with the West was by British captain William Raven of the whaling ship Britannia in 1793.  The obverse of the coin features a Fleche faitere, which is a carved rooftop spire that adorns houses of Loyalty Island natives. The unofficial eight-sided silver-plated Proof coin has a mintage of only 120 pieces.

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BOAT AND DOLPHINS ON MOOREA COIN

Moorea is a volcanic island that is part of French Polynesia about 11 miles (17km) northwest of Tahiti.  The obverse of this 2025 dated 500 Poe Rava of Moorea features a camakau sailing by a village nestled below the mountains. A camakau is a large sailing outrigger that was often used to travel long distances between islands.  The reverse features a pair of dolphins leaping from the ocean,   The unofficial silver-plated Proof coin has a mintage of just 120 pieces.

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COIN OF SANUSIYYA

Sanusiyya was a political and religious order that that exerted control over parts of north Africa in the 19th century, and led to the creation of the Kingdom of Libya.  It was founded in Mecca in 1837 by Muhammad ibn Ali as-Sanusi to overcome what he believed was the decline of Islamic thought and spirituality and to strengthen Muslim political unity. After being forced our of Mecca it moved to Cyrenaica (eastern Libya) and spread its influence over a significant part of North and Central Africa.  It fought against French, Italian and British colonial rule.  In World War II it assisted the British in their fight against German and Italian forces in north Africa. In 1951, the head of Senussi, Muhammad Idris (Idris I), the grandson of Muhammad ibn Ali as-Senussi, became the King of Libya.  This unofficial Sanusiyya 2025 dated 70 Pounds coin features the Sanusiyya coat of arms of on the obverse. The reverse depicts a lion and Omar al-Mukhtar, who led the Sanusiyya resistance against the Italians in the early 20th century and who is a national hero of Libya.  The six-sided silver-plated Proof coin has a mintage of 120 pieces.

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UNUSUAL VIEW ON SINT MAARTEN COIN

Sint Maarten is the Dutch portion of the Caribbean Island of Saint Martin. In 1648 the French and Dutch decided the island was not worth fighting over, so divided it, with the northern portion going to France and the southern portion to the Netherlands.  The tiny island has remained divided ever since.  This unofficial square 2024 Sint Maarten 10 Gulden depicts Netherlands King Willem-Alexander and the coast of arms on the obverse.  The reverse features a view of an island and a cruise liner from an airplane window.  The silver-plated Proof coin has a mintage of only 120 pieces.

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MYSTERIOUS MOAI ON EASTER ISLAND PESO

One of the famous and mysterious moai statues is featured on the obverse of this 2007 Easter Island 1 Peso coin.  A Bonito fish is on the reverse.  Easter Island, also known as Rapa Nui is controlled by Chile.  This unofficial 16.5mm nickel-plated brass coin has a mintage of 9000 pieces.

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BERMANIA CELEBRATES 50th ANNIVERSARY OF FIG REVOLT 

Bermania is the fantasy kingdom created by coin dealer Allen G. Berman located somewhere in Eastern Europe.  Its long and extensive history that is described in the book “Please Ignore Our Time Machine, the Story of Bermania”.   In 2024 Bermania issued this nickel-silver 5 Denari Plumbi to commemorate the Golden Anniversary of both The Fig Revolt and the reign of King Alanus I.  The revolt was instigated in 1974 by a young boy throwing a fig at the Communist Party Boss of Bermania.  The revolt was further encouraged when the Bermanians heard of a dancing fig in a Fig Newton television commercial in the United States. This led to the overthrow of the communists that had ruled Bermania since 1945 and the restoration of the monarchy, putting King Alanus I on his rightful throne.  To mark the event a statue of the Dancing Fig was erected in the Bermanplatz.  The 39mm coin depicts King Alanus I on the obverse, along with his royal titles which stand for: “Alanus, by the Grace of God King of Bermania, Emperor of Our Terrestrial Orb, Count of Fairfield, etc.”  The reverse features the statue of the Dancing Fig.  It  has a mintage of only 580 pieces of which about 200 were reserved for Royal Largess. 

Also see:
BERMANIA TICKLE TOKEN

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KING CHARLES III ON PATTERN COIN FOR  SCOTLAND 

The outline of the head of King Charles III is featured on this undated, multi-colored unofficial pattern 2 Pound coin was issued for Scotland.  One side of the coins depicts the outline of the bust of Charles wearing the royal crown. His royal cipher and the arms of Scotland are in color.  The other side depicts a Scottish thistle and a Golden Eagle in color.  The 40mm coins are struck on silver plated brass with Proof finish.  Only 250 pieces were minted.

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POYAIS – BIGGEST SCAM OF THE 19th CENTURY

The State of Poyais was one of the largest scams of the 19th Century.  Scottish soldier and adventurer Gregor MacGregor showed up in London in 1821 claiming to be the Cacique (Prince) of Poyais.  Poyais is located on the Mosquito Coast of what is now Honduras.  He created numerous documents to make the nation appear legitimate.  He opened offices in London, Edinburgh and Glasgow where he sold property in Poyais, officer commissions in the Poyais military, and sold Poyais bonds on the London stock exchange.  Those emigrating to Poyais could exchange their gold or silver for Bank of Poyais currency.  The first group of settlers arrived from England in autumn of 1822 and found no nation and no settlement, just jungle.  They refused to believe they had been duped until after a second ship of settlers arrived. Eventually a few settlers made it back to London, by which time MacGregor escaped to Paris where he continued his scheme.  After being arrested in France he made his way to Venezuela where he became a respected member of society.  Almost 200 settlers lost their lives and thousands lost their savings in the scheme.  This unofficial 2024 rectangular 40 Qetsales of Poyais depicts the coat of arms on the obverse and a sailing ship and Indian chief on the reverse.  The silver-plated Proof coin has a mintage of only 120 pieces.

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EAST JERUSALEM COIN USES EIGHT DIFFERENT LANGUAGES

This unofficial 2024 dated 10 Shekels coin of East Jerusalem has the name East Jerusalem in eight different languages! Important holy sites of the three major Abrahamic religions in East Jerusalem.  The Wailing Wall which is the only remaining portion of the ancient Jewish Temple, the Muslim al-Aqsa Mosque (Dome of the Rock on Temple Mount) where Mohammed is said to have ascended into heaven and the Christian Church of the Holy Sepulcher where it is believed Jesus was crucified and buriedThe obverse of the coin depicts the Dome of the Rock and has the name of the city in Hebrew and Arabic, reflecting the Jewish and Muslim claims to Temple Mount. A crescent and a Star of David are in the background.  The date is given in the Jewish, AH and AD calendars.  The reverse depicts the Church of the Holy Sepulcher and has the name of the city in the six languages of the six Christian sects that divide ownership of the church: Greek Orthodox, Roman Catholic, Coptic, Ethiopian, Armenian and Syriac.  A Jerusalem Cross is in the background.  The eight-sided, 40mm, silver-plated Proof coin has a mintage of only 120 pieces.

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PIRATES ON ALBORAN COIN

Alboran is a small island in the western Mediterranean between Spain and Morocco.  The name comes from a Tunisian pirate who used it as a base to attack ships passing through the Straits of Gibraltar.  His attacks were so fierce he became known as Al-Borani (hence the island's name), which means "thunderstorm".  The island was captured by Spain in a bloody battle in 1540.  Today the island is inhabited by a small Spanish military garrison.  This unofficial 2025 dated 2 Taleros of Alboran depicts two sailing ships engaged in battle on one side and a Wildman leaning on the coat of arms on the other. The 40mm rectangular silver-plated Proof coin has a mintage of only 120 pieces.

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AMPHIBIOUS AIRPLANE OVER DUBAI

This unofficial six-sided 100 Dirhams of Dubai features an ICON A5 amphibious aircraft flying over the Palm Jumeirah.  The ICON A5 is a two-seater light sport aircraft designed for fun, simplicity and safety.  The company has faced serious production difficulties and had further setbacks when its lead designer and chief test pilot were killed in a crash of the aircraft.  The Palm Jumeirah is a palm-shaped archipelago of artificial islands just off the coast of Dubai.  It features high end hotels, restaurants and residential units.  The coat of arms of Dubai, the Burj Khalifa - the world’s tallest skyscraper and the Burj al Arab - also known as the sail hotel, are on the obverse.  The 39mm silver-plated Proof coin has a mintage of only 120 pieces.

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NEW FLORIDA GOLDBACK NOTES

The popular Goldback series continued in 2025 with the introduction of the Florida Goldback. Goldback notes are a voluntary local currency made of 24 karat gold! Each wafer-thin note has a protective plastic coating. They are issued in increments of 1/1000 troy ounce of gold in order to allow for small purchases. The 1 Goldback note contains 1/1000 troy ounce of gold and measures 66x117mm.  The notes are printed on one side only, with intricate multi-color allegorical designs. 

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PREVIOUS 1 GOLDBACK NOTES

Goldback Aurum notes are a voluntary local currency made of 24 karat gold! Each wafer-thin note is coated with a protective plastic coating so it can be circulated without the gold tearing. They are issued in increments of 1/1000 troy ounce of gold in order to allow for small purchases. Each 1 Goldback note contains 1/1000 troy ounce of gold and measures 66x117mm.  The notes are printed on one side only, with intricate multi-color allegorical style designs. 

The first goldback was the Utah 1 Goldback released  in 2019.  It features Prudence as a Native American seated on a sandstone rock next to an ancient bristle-cone pine tree.

The Nevada 1 Goldback depicts Charity patterned after a depiction of Mary, the mother of Jesus, in St. Augustine’s Catholic Church in Austin, Nevada.  Catholicism is Nevada’s most dominant religion and St. Augustine’s is the oldest Catholic Church building in the state. Like all Goldback designs, the art contains many levels of symbolism.  Some major symbols of Charity featured include: the Sierra Nevada Lily, which is in the container below Mary’s feet to the right; the Mary Magdalene Rose, in the container on the left; cherubs crowning Mary and Burning Hearts to either side of her; Charity’s lit candle in her hand, and Nevada’s sun, rising over the mountains seen through the window behind her. The window sill and the columns on each side of the design, are each inspired from St. Mary of the Mountains Catholic Cathedral in Virginia City.


The New Hampshire 1 Goldback depicts Grace as an Abenaki Native American woman wearing traditional dress and beads in front of her wigwam.. Below is a River Otter representing resourcefulness and finding joy in the moment with both attributes being key parts of grace. Also incorporated into the design are elements ofthe Jewish Feast of Trumpets, Rosh Hashanah, being celebrated alongside the Thanksgiving Holiday. These include the Shofar trumpet next to the wigwam door, the pumpkin, corn, beans, chestnuts, and honeycomb represented by the beehive in the tree.

The Wyoming 1 Goldback features Reverentia, or Reverence as a  Shoshone woman wearing a traditional buckskin dress.  A Bald Eagle is perched on her arm.  In the forground are sunflowers.  In the background is a bison and the formation known as Devil's Tower.

South Dakota became the fifth state to have a Goldback note. The  South Dakota 1 Goldback note depicts Pax or Peace as a Lakota Sioux woman in traditional regalia performing the hoop dance.  Also in the design is Bear Butte, a sacred mountain also known as Mato Paha, an eagle, buffalo, wolf, a traditional Cancega drum and a Prairie Crocus. 

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ACTEON ISLANDS COIN FEATURES FISH AND SAILING SHIP

The Acteon Islands are an isolated group of four atolls located about 870 miles (1,400 km) east-southeast of Tahiti that are under the jurisdiction of French Polynesia. They were first sighted by a European in 1605, but then lost until rediscovered in 1833. In 1836,  Lord Edward Russell mapped the islands and named them after his ship, HMS Actaeon. In 1953 French Polynesia established two civil property companies to develop the atolls and granted them exclusive use for a period of ten years.  Though little was done, the agreement and the atolls were permanently transferred to the companies.  The companies were later dissolved, leaving ownership of the atolls uncertain. In March 2021 the Catholic Mission of Tahiti (CAMICA) claimed ownership of the seven atolls by right of occupation.  The acquisition was challenged in court by decedents of the original owners and has still not been resolved.  One side of the coin depicts a sailing ship sailing into the sunset.  Below are Moorish Idol fish (Zanclus cornutus) and coral.  The other side features Marianne, who is the symbol of the French Republic. This unofficial 2024 silver plated Proof 750 Francs of the Acteon Islands has a mintage of only 120 pieces. 

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DUCIE ISLAND COIN FEATURES SAILING SHIP AND TROPICBIRD

Ducie is an uninhabited atoll in the Pacific Ocean, located 470 km east of Pitcairn. Administratively it is a British Overseas Territory. Ducie was discovered in 1606 by Pedro Fernandez Quiros, who called it Luna Puesta. It was rediscovered by HMS Pandora captain Edward Edwards, who was sent in 1790 to capture the mutiny participants on HMS Bounty. He named it Ducie in honor of the 3rd Earl Ducie, Francis Reynolds-Moreton, under whom he had previously served. In 1867, under the Guano Act, the United States laid claim to the territory, but on December 19, 1902, the island was annexed by Great Britain and became part of the Pitcairn Islands. On 4 August 1937, Captain J. W. Rivers-Carnac, commanding HMS Leander, asserted British sovereignty over Ducie by raising the Union Flag and erecting plaques declaring the island to be the property of King George VI. Due to its inaccessibility and distance from Pitcairn, cruise ships visit Ducie once or twice a year.  The obverse of this unofficial 2024 100 Tala of Ducie Island depicts King Charles III, his cypher and Pitcairn coast of arms.  The reverse includes a Red-tailed tropicbird, a sailing ship and palm trees.  The 39 mm, silver-plated brass Proof coin has a mintage of 125 pieces.

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CONFEDERATION OF SAHEL STATES FEATURES ANTELOPE AND LION

The Confederation of Sahel States (Alliance des États du Sahel, AES) is a confederation formed between the states of Mali, Niger, and Burkina Faso that was initiated in 2023 after the three nations withdrew from the Economic Community of West African States  (ECOWAS).  The three nations were suspended from ECOWAS after the military took control over each of the nations in a series of coups d'etats.  Various terrorist groups operate throughout the three nations. French, United States and United Nations troops fighting against the terrorist groups were forced to leave and were replaced by Russian mercenaries from the Wagner Group and others. The AES includes a defense pact, and has the goals of creating a monetary union, a common market, invest in agriculture, mines, and the energy sector, with the ultimate goal of federalizing into a single sovereign state.  One side of this unofficial 2024 6000 Francs of The Confederation of Sahel States features an antelope (Oryx dammah), date and denomination.  The other side depicts a lion and the coat of arms of the three member nations. The eight-sided 40mm silver-plated Proof coin has a mintage of only 120 pieces.

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REPUBLIC OF SRPSKA FEATURES EAGLE AND LYNX

The Republic of Srpska was declared in 1992 during the Bosnian War that followed the break-up of Yugoslavia.  It was incorporated into Bosnia-Herzegovina in 1995 as part of the Dayton Accords. Since then, many in largely Serbian Christian Srpska have been agitating for regaining independence from the rest of Bosnia-Herzegovina that is largely made up of Muslim Bosniaks. On December 11, 2021, the Sprska National Assembly voted to secede from the Bosnian armed forces, judiciary and the tax system. This unofficial 2024 Republic of Srpska 25 Dinar features an eagle and the coat of arms on the obverse and a lynx on the reverse.  The six-sided, 39mm, silver-plated Proof coin has a mintage of only 120 pieces.

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MOTHER AND CHILD HIPPOS ON COIN OF WESTERN TOGOLAND

Western Togoland is a self-declared, unrecognized nation in west Africa that consists of what was formerly British Togoland.  After World War I, France and Great Britain divided the German colony of Togoland between them.  In 1956 British Togoland voted to join the British Colony of Gold Coast to form the nation of Ghana.  In 2017 and again in 2020 Western Togoland declared independence from Ghana.  Many have been killed or injured in the clashes between Togoland supporters and Ghana's troops.  This unofficial 2024 Western Togoland 5000 Francs coin depicts a mother hippopotamus and her child on one side and the arms of Western Togoland on the other.  The 40mm silver-plated Proof coin has a mintage of only 120 pieces.

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REPUBLIC OF DAR EL KUTI COIN FEATURES SOLDIER AND LION

The Republic of Dar el Kuti, also called the Republic of Logon, was a self-proclaimed independent region of the Central African Republic.  It was formed in December 14, 2015 by a Muslim rebel movement that did not believe the Christians and Muslims could co-exist in the Central African Republic.   Its capital was recaptured by the Central African Republic in April 2021.  It was named after Dar al Kuti, an Islamic state that existed in the region from about 1830 until 1912.  The unofficial 2024 5000 Francs coin is dated 2015, though was not struck until 2024.  The obverse depicts a roaring lion.  The other side depicts a soldier crouching in the grass. The silver-plated Proof coin has a mintage of 130 pieces.

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GOLAN HEIGHTS COIN FEATURES MODERN TANK GUARDING ANCIENT FORTRESS

Golan Heights is a disputed territory controlled by Israel.  From 1944 until 1967 it was part of Syria.  Israel took control of the territory in 1967 during the six-days war.  It is now at the center of the conflict between Israel and the Iranian supported Hezbollah in Lebanon. The obverse of this unofficial 2024 Golan Heights 10 Shekels coin pictures a caracal, which is a long-eared wildcat native to the region.  The reverse features an Israeli Merkava Mark 4M main battle tank in front of the Nimrod Fortress.  Nimrod Fortress is located on the southern slopes of Mount Hermon, overlooking the Golan Heights.  It was built to guard a major access route to Damascus.  It dates back to ancient times though most of the structure was built in the 13th century.  The square, 39mm silver-plated brass coin has a mintage of only 125 pieces.

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FRENCH TERRITORY SILVER PATTERNS HONOR LOUIS OSCAR ROTY

The works of French Medalist and coin designer Louis Oscar Roty are featured on these 1/4 ounce .999 fine silver 1/4 Euro unofficial Essai (pattern) coins struck for various French overseas territories.  Roty was a prolific sculpturer and engraver.  His designs appeared on coins of France and other nations and his works can be found in most major European museums. The obverse of each coin features his portrait and the name of the territory.  The reverse features a beautiful rendition of one of his works.  Only 2000 coins of each type were struck.
Guadeloupe is a French Territory in the Caribbean.  It was discovered by Columbus in 1493 and first settled by the French in 1635.  Its major industries are tourism and making rum.  The silver 1/4 Euro features a vignette from a medal struck for the Lyon Chamber of Commerce in 1892.
Reunion is located in the Indian Ocean. Almost the entire economy is devoted to the production of sugar and sugar by-products such as rum and molasses.  Most of the sugar production on the island is controlled by about a dozen large plantations.  The coin features a vignette from his 1888 bronze medal "la Fermière" (The Farm Girl) which depicts a woman tending chickens.
St. Barthelemy, also known as St. Barts or St. Barths, is an island in the Caribbean.  Tourism is its main industry. The silver 1/4 Euro  features a vignette from his 1893 medal  "Patria non immemore"( The Fatherland does not forget) commemorating the 25th anniversary of the founding of the Third Republic.
St. Martin, also known as St. Maarteen is a tropical island in the Caribbean known for its beautiful beaches, fine hotels, casinos and restaurants.  As might be expected, its major industry is tourism.  The coin depicts an impressive vignette of Science and Liberty from his 1896 work.

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SHORT-LIVED REPUBLIC OF ROSE ISLAND

The Republic of Rose Island (Respubliko de la Insulo de la Rozoj) was a short-lived micronation located a man-made platform in international waters in Adriatic Sea off the coast of Italy.  The project was begun in 1958 Italian engineer Giorgio Rosa.  On May 1, 1968 Rosa declared it an independent nation with himself as president.  55 Days later the Italy invaded and took control of the platform and set up a blockade.  Italy found it impossible to dismantle the well-constructed platform so attempted to bomb it - twice without success.  It was finally toppled by a storm in February 1969.  This unofficial 2024 4000 Mils of the Republic of Rose Island depicts a bouquet of roses on the obverse and a sailing yacht approaching the platform on the reverse.  The silver-plated Proof coin has a mintage of only 150 pieces.

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SAILING SHIP ON MARTIN GARCIA COIN

Martin Garcia is an island located at the mouth of the Rio de la Plata between Argentina and Uruguay. It is named after the storekeeper of the Juan Diaz de Solis expedition who was buried on the island.  Due to its strategic location ownership of the island was disputed between Brazil, Argentina and Uruguay. There have been a number of battles for control of the island between various groups. Argentina used it as a penal colony.  In 1973 Argentina and Uruguay agreed to divide the island, with the northern portion, called Timoteo Domínguez Islands going to Uruguay, the southern portion called Martin Garcia going to Argentina, with the stipulation that the island would be a natural reserve.  The silver-plated Proof 2024 Martin Garcia 5000 Peso coin depicts an early 19th century sailing ship. The coat of arms is on the obverse.  The unofficial issue has a mintage of only 150 pieces.

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SHARK, RAY & SAILING SHIP ON GEYSER REEF COIN

Geyser Reef (Banc du Geyser) is a dangerous, low reef in the Mozambique Channel about 78 miles (125km) northeast of Mayotte.  France, Comoros and Madagascar all claim the reef, though it is presently under French control.  It was first known to Arab sailors about 700AD and has been shown on some navigation charts since about 800AD.  It got its present name when the British ship HMS Geysir ran aground on the reef on December 23, 1678. The ship is depicted on the reverse of this unofficial triangular 2024 Geyser 5000 Francs.  The obverse depict a whale shark and a manta ray.  The silver-plated Proof coin has a mintage of 125 pieces.

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GUANACO ON LA ROIJA COIN

A mother and young Guanaco are featured on this unofficial 2 Bocades coin of La Roija.  The Guanaco is closely related to the llama but are smaller and slenderer.  The obverse of the coin features a Puma and the arms of La Rioja.  La Rioja is located in the Andes foothills in western Argentina.  It has tended to be a politically restive region. It gained independence from Spain in 1820 but did not join the Argentine Confederation until 1850. The 37mm, silver-plated, five-sided coin is Proof and has a mintage of just 120 pieces.

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CROCODILE AND SCREAMING EAGLE ON LIKOMA COIN

Likoma is an island in Lake Malawi a short distance from Mozambique and surrounded by Mozambican territorial waters.  In 1880 the Universities' Mission to Central Africa established their headquarters on the island at the request of David Livingstone.  In the early 20th century, they built St. Peter's Cathedral on the island which is modeled after Westminster Abbey and measures 100 by 30 meters (328 x 98 feet).  At the end of World War II, the island was awarded to British East Africa rather than Portuguese Mozambique due to the presence of the British missionaries.  It is now an exclave of Malawi.  The obverse of the six-sided silver-plated coin feature a screaming eagle and the arms of Malawi.  A crocodile is on the reverse.  This unofficial 2024 Likoma 2000 Kwacha has a mintage of just 125 pieces.

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WOLF WOMAN ON ILE DE SEIN COIN

Ile de Sein is a flat, treeless, island 5 miles (8km.) off the coast of France.  It is part of a dangerous line of reefs south of the English Channel stretching some 30 miles (48km.) west from Pointe du Raz.  The island women used to wear a black headdress, and in the past, they had a reputation for enticing sailors onto the rocks by witchcraft.  A Breton legend states that the island was inhabited by virgin druid priestesses that could predict the future, calm the winds and take the form of animals.  After the World War II German invasion of France nearly every adult male fled the island in their fishing boats to join the Free French Forces in England.  This unofficial 2024 500 Libres of Ile de Sein depicts a woman and a wolf on one side and a Gallic rooster on the other.  The six-sided 39mm silver plated brass Proof coin has a mintage of only 120 pieces.

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JAGUARS ON REPUBLIC OF TULE COIN

The Republic of Tule was declared by Guna people living along the eastern coast of southern Panama and northern Columbia.  The region was formerly called San Blas and is now called Guna Yala.  The obverse of this unofficial 2024 Republic of Tule 10 Balboa depicts the head of a Jaguar.  The reverse features a Jaguar in the forest.  The eight-sided 40mmm silver plated brass Proof coin has a mintage of only 125 pieces.

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SAILING SHIP ON SQUARE COIN OF SALA Y GOMEZ

A sailing ship if featured on this square 2023 dated 2000 Pesos of Sala Y Gomez.  The coat of arms is on the obverse.  Sala Y Gomez is sometimes considered the easternmost point of the Polynesian Triangle.  It was known to the inhabitants of Easter Island, which is located 243 miles (391km) to the southwest.  It is uninhabited due to its remoteness, small size, lack of fresh water and rough terrain.  It is named after Spanish sailor Jose Salas Valdes who discovered it in 1793 and Jose Manuel Gomez who later explored it.  Today the island belongs to Chile, which is located 2000 miles (3210km) to the east. The surrounding waters are a Marine Protected Area.  The unofficial 39mm silver-plated brass Proof coin has a mintage of only 145 pieces.

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SAILBOAT ON ODD-SHAPED COIN OF ISLAS DESVENTURADAS

The Islas Desventuradas are four remote islands belonging to Chile that are 530 miles (850 km.) off the coast of Chile.   The name translates as the "Unlucky Islands".  The only inhabitants is a garrison of the Chilean Navy located on Isla San Felix.  A 6,600 foot (2000m.) runway runs the entire length of the island.  The unofficial 2023 5000 Pesos of Islas Desventuradas depicts a nereid (sea nymph) riding hippocampus and the coat of arms on the obverse.  A sailboat is on the reverse.  The, unofficial silver-plated Proof coin has a mintage of just 145 pieces.

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FISHERMAN ON MIGINGO COIN

Migingo is a 1/2 acre (.2 hectare) island in Lake Victoria in Kenya. The island was believed to be the home of an evil spirit and uninhabited until 1991 when two fishermen paid a sorcerer to expel the spirit.  It is a rich fishing area, especially for Nile Perch.  More fishermen moved to the island and attempted to establish an independent commune.  Uganda then claimed the island and a low-level war broke out between Kenya and Uganda, before Uganda finally relinquished its claims in 2009.  In 2018 the tiny island was inhabited by more than 400 people, making one of the most densely populated regions in the world.  The men engage primarily in fishing and the women in prostitution.  This unofficial 2024 dated 1500 Shillings of Migingo depicts the coat of arms on the obverse and a Nile perch and a fisherman in a boat on the reverse.  The 37mm silver-plated Proof coin has a mintage of 120 pieces.

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GECKO AND SHIP ON AGALEGA COIN

Agalega consists of two small islands in the western part of the Indian Ocean located.  They are administered my Mauritius, which is located 683 miles (1100 km) to the south. It has a population of about 330.  The first settlement was established by a former French Privateer in 1808 who imported slaves.  The exact location of the islands was finally mapped in 1811 by Captain Briggs of HMS Clorinde.  The ship appears on the reverse of the coin.  Mauritius allowed India to start building a major military base on the islands in 2015, over the objection of the residents who saw it as a threat to self-determination and creole language and culture.  The obverse of this unofficial Agalega 2023 dated 500 Rupees coin features a Gecko over the Agalega coat of arms. The coat of arms includes a ship, palm treed, star above a mountain and a key.  The odd shaped coin is struck on silver-plated brass and has a mintage of only 150 pieces.

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DRILL ON AMBAZONIA COIN

Ambazonia is a self-declared, unrecognized state in western Africa. In 1961 the southern portion of English-speaking British Cameroon was attached to the larger French Cameroon to create the independent Federal Republic of Cameroon.  Many of the English speakers did not feel they were being fairly treated by the French majority and in 1972 a new constitution stripped the region of much of its local authority. After a series of wide spread protests, the Federal Republic of Ambazonia declared independence in 2017. GuerilSuggest that you and Carolyn attend the next Endowment meeting so these things can be discussed. la warfare has been ongoing.  The obverse of this unofficial Ambazonia 5 Ambo coin features the coat of arms. The reverse depicts a Drill (Mandrillus leucophaeus) and the outlines of other Old World Monkeys (Cercopithecidae).   The 40mm eight-sided silver-plated Proof coin has a mintage of only 135 pieces.

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GREEN SEA TURTLE ON BASS ISLANDS COIN

The Bass Islands are the southernmost islands of French Polynesia.  The were first settled in the 12th century.  By the mid-16th century population growth and ecological degradation of farming areas caused shortages which led to warfare between clans.  The population moved from coastal villages to mountain fortresses.  Life in the fortresses continued until the arrival of Europeans in the early 19th century, bringing illness, alcoholism and slave traders which killed off most of the population.  The few survivors returned to the coast, settled around the Catholic mission.  Two Green Sea Turtles are on the obverse this unofficial Bass Islands 2023 750 Francs coin. The reverse depicts the head of Marianne, who is the symbol of the French Republic.  The 40mm eight-sided silver-plated Proof coin has a mintage of only 125 pieces.

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ANTS ON KABYLIA COIN

Kabylia is a region of northern Algeria, including parts of the Atlas Mountains and the Mediterranean coast.  It is inhabited by fiercely independent Berbers.   The region was the last stronghold against the French colonization of Algeria.  The French gradually took control of the region after 1830 despite numerous revolts.  Revolts continued after Algeria's independence in 1962 as the region sought further autonomy.  More recently Kabylia leaders have called for complete independence.  The unofficial 2023 Kabylia 25 Dinars has the Kabylia arms on the obverse with the name of the country in Arabic, Tifinagh and Kabyle.  The reverse depicts 3 ants on leaves.  The six-sided, silver plated, Proof coin has a mintage of just 125 pieces.

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OIL ROCKS COIN DEPICTS UNIQUE "FLYING SHIP"

Oil Rocks, known as Neft Dashlari in Azerbaijan, is a city built on a series of platforms over the Caspian Sea.  The first oil well in complex was drilled in 1949.  Soon an entire functioning city was built over the Caspian Sea as oil production expanded.  At its peak in the 1960's the city housed some 5000 workers and included nine-story living quarters, hotels, parks with trees, a restaurant, movie theater, soccer pitch, and hospital connected by some 190 miles (300km) of streets built on piles or landfill.  Control of Oil Rocks passed to Azerbaijan after the collapse of the Soviet Union.  Since then, oil production has declined and portions of the city has fallen into disrepair or collapsed, though it is estimated there is as much as 178 million barrels (30 million tons) of recoverable oil remain.  The obverse coin depicts a helicopter landing on one of the city's platforms.  The reverse depicts the Lun Ekranoplan.  The Lun is the world's only Ground Effect Vehicle (GEV) to be deployed as a warship.  It resembles an airplane but can only fly up to about 13 feet (4m) off the surface of the water. The plan was to create an attack/transport ship that had the speed of an airplane.  Its eight jet engines gave it a top speed of 297 knots (340mph, 550kph).  The 242 foot long vessel (73.8m) carried a crew of 15. Its weapons included six guided missile launchers and two 23mm cannons.  Only one was ever completed which entered service in the Soviet Navy in 1987.  It was soon discovered that the Lun was unable to operate in rough seas.  After the collapse of the Soviet Union it was abandoned.  An attempt to tow it to a museum in 2020 resulted it in it getting stuck on a sandy beach, where at last reports, it remains today.  The unofficial, odd-shaped, 42mm, silver-plated, Proof 2023 Naft Dashlari 500 Manat has a mintage of only 125 pieces. 

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SENTOSA COIN DEPICTS CONCORDE

Sentosa, originally known as Blakang Mati, is located off the southern coast of Singapore.  Fortifications to protect Singapore were built on the island in the 19th century.  In the 1970's the island was renamed Sentosa and turned into a resort.  Today it houses 14 hotels, 2 golf courses, a theme park, casino and a sheltered beach.  It attracts more than 20 million visitors a year.  The obverse of this unofficial 2023 Sentosa 50 Dollar coin depicts the Singapore coat of arms and Merlion with the name Sentosa in English, Tamil and Chinese.  The reverse depicts a Concorde landing in Singapore with the Marina Bay Sands Resort in the background.  The Concorde was a supersonic airplane that served Singapore between 1977 and 1980.  The Concorde ceased all operations in 2003.  The Marina Bay Sands Resort was not built until 2010.   The 39mm silver plated brass coin has a mintage of 125 pieces.

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RHINOS FROM REHOBOTH

Rhinoceros are featured on both the obverse and reverse of this odd-shaped coin of the Free Republic of Rehoboth.  The Free Republic of Rehoboth was first founded in 1868 by a group of Basters who left British-ruled Cape Colony.  The Basters are of mixed African, European and Asian ancestry.  Their territory was incorporated into South-West Africa, which later became Namibia.  On March 20, 1990 they again declared independence.  A day later Namibia became independent from South Africa and soon confiscated all their territory.  The unofficial 2023 coin is denominated 250 Rehoboth Dollars.  The silver-plated coin is 42mm, has a mintage of only 125 pieces and is Proof.

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KINGDOM OF KABUTO COIN FEATURES BISON

The Kingdom of Kabuto is a micronation that was proclaimed in 2016.  It claims previously unclaimed waters in the Dixon Strait between Alaska and British Columbia and enclaves within Poland and Croatia.  This unofficial 2023 7 Buto coin of Kabuto depicts a European Bison and calf on one side and the national emblem on the other.  The inscriptions are in Polish, which along with English is one of the official languages of the Kingdom. The eight-sided silver-plated Proof coin has a mintage of only 125 pieces.

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GRASSHOPPER ON COIN OF LAJTABANSAG

Lajtabansag existed as an independent state between October 4 and November 10, 1921.  After the collapse of the Austro-Hungarian Empire in World War I the Treaty of Trinon assigned the territory to Austria, which many inhabitants did not want.  Leaders in the territory declared independence and formed an army of former soldiers, students and peasants that managed to hold off the Austrian army.  Lajtabansag extracted “customs duties” from trains passing through the region by confiscating goods.  The result was not acceptable to either Austria or Hungary.  After high level negotiations, a plebiscite was held, which resulted in the city of Sopron becoming part of Hungary while other territory of Burgenland going to Austria.   The obverse of this unofficial 2023 Lajtabansag 10,000 Korona includes the national emblem.  The reverse depicts a grasshopper.  The five-sided 37mm silver-plated Proof coin has a mintage of only 140 pieces.

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CHOCOLATE FROG ON REPUBLIC OF WEST PAPUA COIN

The Republic of West Papua is an unrecognized state consisting of the Indonesian part of the island of New Guinea.  The Dutch retained possession of the west New Guinea after the independence of Indonesia in 1949, with the expectation that it would eventually become an independent nation.  Instead, Indonesia took over the territory in 1963 against the will of much of the indigenous population.  The Republic of West Papua is  the provisional government that is fighting for the independence of West Papua..  This unofficial 2023 40 Basan coin of the Republic of West New Guinea depicts the West Papua coat of arms on the obverse. The reverse depicts a native Chocolate Frog, (Litoria mira) which was discovered in 2016. The six-sided, 39mm, silver-plated Proof coin has a mintage of only 135 pieces.

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THE FREE REPUBLIC OF NIAS COIN FEATURES SAILING SHIP

The Free Republic of Nias was a short-lived Nazi state proclaimed by German prisoners on the Island of Nias in what is now Indonesia.  After Germany invaded the Netherlands in May 1940, the Dutch rounded up the Germans living in the Netherlands East Indies and attempted to transport them in three ships to India.  One of the ships was attacked by Japanese bombers.  Of the 477 prisoners who were aboard, just 67 managed to survive and reach Nias in lifeboats.  There local Dutch authorities placed them under arrest.   On March 28, 1942, news came of the Japanese military successes.  The local police revolted and placed the Dutch authorities under arrest and released the Germans.  The following day the Germans, in cooperation with the leaders of Nias, proclaimed the Free Republic of Nias.  The Germans reached out to Japanese authorities who they expected to be their allies. They attempted to turn their Dutch and English prisoners to the Japanese   Instead, the Japanese sent six ships to occupy the island, and on April 24, 1942 all Europeans, regardless of nationality were transported off Nias to Sumatra. The obverse of the unofficial 2023 Free Republic of Nias 20 Mark coin depicts the republic's emblem.  The reverse features a Pinisi type sailing ship that was likely used by Japanese to remove the Europeans.  The triangular, silver-plated Proof coin has a mintage of 150 pieces.

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GAZA COIN FEATURES PALESTINIAN WITH ASSAULT WEAPON

A Palestinian with a high-powered assault weapon  is featured on this unofficial 2019 rectangular 5 Pound coin issued for the Gaza Strip. The emblem of Palestine is on the obverse.  The Gaza Strip is about a territory about 25 miles (41km) long and 4 to 8 miles (6 to 12 km.) wide that borders Israel and Egypt and is the home of some 1.9 million Palestinians.  Since 2007 Gaza has been a de-facto self-governing entity ruled by Hamas, a fundamentalist Islamic organization.  It recently attacked Israel, and Israel retaliated bringing destruction to much of this small territory. The 40mm x 25mm rectangular silver plated Proof coin has a mintage of only 242 pieces.

Also see:

MODERN PALESTINE BI-METALLIC PATTERN COIN: 1 Dinar 2010 Br.X10

BRITISH PALESTINE 1 MIL COINS

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ORANGE FREE STATE HONORS J.R.R. TOLKIEN

Orange Free State was an independent republic in what is now South Africa. It was settled in the 1830's by Dutch colonists (Boers) fleeing after the English took control of Cape Colony.  It became a province in South African in 1902 after its defeat in the Second Boer War.  Renowned author J.R.R. Tolkien was born in Bloemfontein, Orange Free State in 1892.   This unofficial 2022 100 Rand coin of Orange Free State was struck to commemorate the 130th anniversary of his birth and the 85th anniversary of the first publishing of The Hobbit.  The obverse features his portrait and signature and the Orange Free State coat of arms.  The reverse depicts Bard the Bowman and Bilbo the Hobbit. The 39mm silver-plated Proof coin has a mintage of only 145  pieces.

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COIN OF MIDDLE EARTH - THE MOURIA AXE OF DURIN

This copper coin is based on the fictional works of J. R. R. Tolkien, author of THE LORD OF THE RINGS and THE HOBBIT. The Great Halls and Mines of Mouria were built by Durin (Duriun), leader of the Dwarves, late in the First Age.  This large copper coin bears the dour and bearded profile of Durin himself on the obverse, along with the Dwarfish Angerthaus inscription "Durin Turgul Khauzaddhum" which translates as "Duruin Lord of Mouria". On reverse below the double-bitted axe blade are the letters "BK" which are thought to represent "Bauruk Khauzad", meaning "Axes of the Dwarves".  These coins would have been small change to the Dwarves... possibly enough to buy a half-pint of ale.  The coin weighs about 9 grams of pure copper, and is struck on a "button blank" meaning that it is not punched from sheet metal, but rather cold-forged with a 50 ton hammer from a small thick metal button. The result is a slightly off-round but thoroughly antique look.  It has a mintage of 2000 pieces.

Item Item DURIN MOURIA COPPER AXE OF DURIN (Br.X1) $8.00

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REPUBLIC OF SOUTH MOLUCCAS DEPICTS CASSOWARY

The Republic of South Moluccas , (Indonian: Republik Maluku Selatan) is a government in exile that claims the islands of Ambon, Buru, and Seram in the Indonesian province of Maluku.  Indonesia gained independence from Indonesia in December 1949.  In April 1950 the heavily Christian South Maluku declared independence from mostly Muslim Indonesia.  The revolt was largely put down by the Indonesian army by November 1950, though fighting continued until 1963.  Thousands of Moluccans and the South Moluccan government went into exile in The Netherlands.   The unofficial Republic of South Moluccas 2023 5000 Rupiah coin depicts the head of a Cassowary bird, the national emblem and a cross on the obverse.  The reverse features a standing Cassowary.  It  is a large, flightless bird that inhabits the islands.  It can grow to 6 feet (2m) tall and weigh over 150 pounds (70kg).  The 23mm, silver plated brass coin has a scalloped edge and a mintage of only 120 pieces.

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RABBIT ON COIN OF NORTHERN EPIRUS

Autonomous Republic of Northern Epirus was proclaimed on February 28, 1914 by Greeks who did not want to be incorporated into the recently created Principality of Albania, whose boundaries were drawn by the Great European Powers.  After the outbreak of World War I in July 1914 Greek forces occupied the area and tried to incorporate it into Greece, until they were driven out by French and Italian forces in 1916.  With the support of Italy, in 1921 the area was formally ceded to Albania though calls for independence or union with Greece have continued since then.  This unofficial 10 Drachmas coin of Northern Epirus features the Northern Epirus national emblem on the obverse and a rabbit on the reverse.  The six-sided 39mm silver-plated brass coin has a mintage of just 125 pieces.

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RAILROAD HONORED ON GRAUBUNDEN COIN

The Albulian Railway is commemorated on this unofficial 2023 10 Franc coin for the Swiss canton of Graubunden.  The obverse features the coat of arms of Graubunden and two women, one personifying the canton of Graubunden and the other is Helvetia personifying Switzerland.  The reverse depicts a steam engine and the Landwasser viaduct on the railway.  The construction of the railroad began in 1898, it was opened in 1903 and since 2008 has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site.  The odd-shaped coin is 42 x 21mm.  The silver plated Proof coin has a mintage of only 120 pieces. 

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Though these once great and powerful nations have long since disappeared, a coin dealer in Russia issued modern unofficial coins for these ancient countries.  All the coins are silver-plated brass Proof with very low mintages.

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SAILING SHIPS ON COINS OF PANTELLERIA AND PELAGIE ISLANDS

Pantelleria and the Pelagie Islands are Italian controlled islands located between Sicily and Tunisia in the Mediterranean.  Pantelleria shows traces of human inhabitation dating back 35,000 years. During Roman times it was used as a place for exile of important officials and members of the imperial family.  It was heavily bombarded during World War II in 1943 in Operation Corkscrew.  Most of the buildings on the island were destroyed before the Italian garrison surrendered. After that it became a vital airbase for the invasion of Sicily.    The three small islands of  three small islands of Lampedusa, Lampione, and Linosa make up the Pelagie Islands.  The islands have been inhabited on and off since ancient times.   Today they are mostly barren due to wanton deforestation.  Today they support a population of about 6500 who are dependent on fishing, canning and tourism.  The islands are the home of two of the last nesting sites for the endangered Loggerhead Turtle.   Because seafaring was important to both Pantelleria and the Pelagie Islands these unofficial coins each feature sailing ships.  The obverse of the triangular 500 Lire of Pantelleria features the islands coat of arms which includes an ancient sailing ship and the ancient name of the island: Cossyra.  A Loggerhead Turtle is on the reverse of the odd-shaped 500 Lire of the Pelagie Islands. The coins are Proof and are struck in silver-plated brass.   Both are dated 2023 and have a mintage of only 135. 

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2023 HANKO COIN FEATURES POLIKARPOV I-15 BI-PLANE

A Russian Polikarpov I-15 bi-plane fighter is featured on this unofficial 2023 dated 50 Markka coin of Hanko (Hango). The plane was used between 1939 and 1944 in the two wars between Finland and the Soviet Union. The Hanko peninsula is the southernmost point of mainland Finland and is the home of the port and city of Hanko.  During the 19th and early 20th centuries while Finland was under Russian control, Hanko was the port of choice for emigrants leaving Finland for a new life in North America and a popular resort of Russian nobility.  After the 1939 Winter War between Finland and the Soviet Union, Finland was forced to lease the peninsula to Russia for 30 years as a naval base.  Finland regained control of the peninsula in 1941 during the second Soviet-Finnish war.   The obverse of the coin depicts the heraldic Finnish lion.   The Proof silver-plated brass coin has a mintage of only 125 pieces.

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PIGS ON BIG MAJOR CAY COIN

Big Major Cay, also known as Pig Island, is uninhabited by humans, however it does have a population of about two dozen swimming pigs. It is located in the Exuma district of the Bahamas.  The pigs are a popular tourist attraction.  The feral domestic pigs are not afraid of people.  They love to take to water and lay in the sun on the beach.  The pigs are fed by tourists and from passing yachts, and if the boat gets close enough to the shore, the pigs can jump in on their own, begging for food.  Drinking water is provided by small lakes on the island.  No one is quite sure how the non-native pigs got there.  Some claim they were left by sailors who planned to later pick them up and eat them, but never returned.  Others say they survived a shipwreck, or were brought to the island to attract tourists.   This odd-shaped 2023 20 Dollar coin of Big Major Cay has an unusual design, the design on the front wraps over to the back.  The design includes the Bahamas coat of arms and two pigs, half of one of the pigs is on the front of the coin with the other half is on the back.  The unofficial silver-plated Proof coin is 39mm and has a mintage of just 125 pieces.

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TORY ISLAND COIN FEATURES RAVEN

Tory Island (Oilean Thoraigh in Irish) is a remote island off the northern coast of Ireland inhabited by less than 150 people.  It is about 5 kilometers (3.1 miles) long and 1 kilometer (.6 miles) wide.  The northern coast is heavily indented by bays and bays, the coasts are rather steep and steep.  Tory is mentioned in a number of Irish legends. Today it is noted for its rugged beauty and an artist colony.  This unofficial 2023 six-sided 10 Pound coin of Tory Island features a Celtic Cross and an Irish Harp on the obverse.  The reverse depicts a raven on the handle of a sword. Morrigan, the goddess of war in Irish mythology would often take the form of a raven.  Morrigan would not take part in the battles, but she would be present on the battlefield and used all her power to help one side or another.  The 39mm silver-plated brass coin has a mintage of only 125 pieces.

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FRENCH OVERSEAS TERRITORIES SILVER ESSAI (PATTERN) COINS 

These unofficial Essai (pattern) silver 1/4 Euro coins commemorate French Medalist and coin designer Louis Oscar Roty. Roty lived from 1846 to 1911. He was a prolific sculpture and engraver. His works can be found in most major European museums. He is probably best remembered for his 1898 engravraving of "Semeuse (the Sower) which graced French coins for nearly a century. The obverse of each coin features his portrait and the name of the territory. The reverse features a beautiful rendition of one of his works. The coins are 27mm in diameter and contain 1/4 ounce of .999 fine silver. There is a mintage of only 2000 pieces of each type. Each coin is graded Fleur-de-Coin (FDC) in French standards, and is Proof or Proof-like in American grading standards.

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WARRIOR ON COIN OF VARKANA

Varkana, also called Hyrcania is a territory along the southeastern coast of the Caspian Sea.   The name Varkana is derived from Persian for "Country of Wolves".  It was a province in the Midian, Akhe-menid, Seleucid and Parthian empires. In 72AD became an independent kingdom with nominal allegiance to Parthia.  This unofficial 2022 10,000 Rials of Varkana features a fierce ancient warrior on the reverse.  A heraldic wolf is on the obverse.   The39mm, six-sided, silver-plated brass Proof coin has a mintage of only 120 pieces.

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CELTIC STATE OF SCORDISK

The Skordiski were an Iron Age Celtic tribe who were centered at at the confluence of the Savus (Sava), Dravus (Drava), Margus (Morava) and Danube rivers in what is now Serbia. By the second half the of the 3rd century BC they became the most important power in the northern Balkans.  They built fortresses at Singidunum (the modern city of Belgrade) and Taurun (the modern Zemun). At their peak they controlled portions of present-day Serbia, Croatia, Bulgaria and Romania.  From 141BC they were constantly at war against Roman-held Macedonia. Roman sources report that they had the custom of drinking blood from hollow skulls and that they sacrificed captives to their deities. They were defeated by the Romans in 15BC.  This unofficial 2022 5000 Dinara of the State of Scordisk features a fierce Skordiski warrior on one side and the Serbian coat-of-arms supported by two angels on the other.  The eight-sided, 40mm, silver-plated brass Proof coin has a mintage of only 120 pieces.

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MODERN COIN FOR DUBROVNIK REPUBLIC

This odd-shaped, unofficial 3 Perpera was issued for the Dubrovnik Republic in 2022.  Dubrovnik, also known by its Latin name of Ragusa, was a small, wealthy independent city-state until it was conquered by Napoleon in 1806. Though it never relinquished its sovereignty, it was given to the Hapsburgs following the defeat of Napoleon.  After World War I it was incorporated into what became Yugoslavia.  It briefly regained independence during the breakup of Yugoslavia before becoming the southernmost portion of Croatia. The obverse of the silver-plated brass coin features the arms of Dubrovnik and Saint Blaise as he appeared on the flag of Ragusa.  The reverse depicts Black Swifts (Apus apus) flying around old town Dubrovnik.  The Proof coin has a mintage of only 150 pieces.

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COIN OF FIUME

Fiume gained autonomy for the first time in 1719 when it was proclaimed a free port of the Holy Roman Empire.  The port city was later transferred to the Kingdom of Hungary, but given a special separate status. After World War I its status was disputed between Italy, Kingdom of Serbs, Croats and Slovenes (later Yugoslavia) and the Great Powers (Great Britain, France and the United States).  In 1919 it proclaimed itself the independent state of Italian Regency of Carnaro (Reggenza Italiana del Carnaro) under a fascist government with a plan unite with Italy.  Under pressure of the Great Powers Italy did not take control of the territory and it was proclaimed the Free State of Fiume.  Control of the city remained unstable, with control passing between fascist, communists and nationalists until 1924 when the Treaty of Rome awarded the city to Italy.  Following World War II another attempt was made to set up an independent free state, but instead it was incorporated into Yugoslavia.  Fiume is now the city of Rijeka in Croatia.   The obverse of the unofficial 2022 dated 200 Lire features the two-headed eagle symbol of the city, whose use was forbidden by both the Italian and Yugoslavian governments.  The reverse features a statue of the Archangel of Justice and the emblem of Regency of Carnaro depicting an ouroboros.  The 40mm silver-plated Proof coin has a mintage of just 130 pieces.

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KNIGHT ON BRITTANY COIN

Brittany is the northwest region of France. During the Middle Ages, Brittany was a vassal duchy of France, while maintaining almost complete independence.  Control frequently passed between England and France during their many wars.  In 1963, the Brittany Liberation Front was created, which began the struggle for the independence of Brittany.  The obverse of the unofficial 2022 dated Brittany 100 Franc coin features the previous arms of Brittany surrounded by the arms of the bishoprics and  regions of Brittany: Leon, Tregor, Cornuay, the Vannes Rennes, Nantes, Dol, Malouin and Penthievre.   The reverse depicts a knight on horseback with a dog and the Tanti tower.  The 39mm silver-plated Proof coin has a mintage of only 150 pieces.

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ABYEI COIN DEPICTS AFRICAN WILDLIFE ON MAP OF AFRICA  

Abyei is a territory of some 4000 square miles (10,000 sq.km.) of desert located on the border of Sudan and South Sudan. Because it has rich oil deposits both nations claim the territory.  Under a peace agreement it was supposed to be considered on an interim basis to be simultaneously part of both nations until a referendum could be held.  The referendum has never held due to disputes over voter eligibility.  The area is currently under the control of United Nations Peacekeeping forces from Ethiopia.  The obverse of this unofficial 39mm 2020 dated 500 Franc coin features the arms of Abyei, which includes elements of both the Sudanese and South Sudanese arms.  The reverse features a map of Africa that depicts a rhinoceros, giraffe and lion.  The silver-plated Proof coin has a scalloped edge and a mintage of just 160.

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BOUVET ISLAND COIN FEATURES KILLER WHALES

Bouvet Island is a small, remote, ice-covered island in the South Atlantic that belongs to Norway.  It was discovered in 1739 by Jean-Baptiste Charles Bouvet de Lozier, after whom the island is named.  He mislabeled its coordinates, and so it was lost for almost 70 years.  Norway claimed the island in 1927. The first accurate map of the island was not made until 1985. Today the island is a nature reserve that houses a small research station that is inhabited during the summer months.  This unofficial 2021 dated 200 Kroner depicts a mother Killer Whale (Orca) and her calf.  The obverse includes the arms of Norway, denomination, date and a compass rose.  The silver-plated brass Proof coin has a mintage of only 140 pieces.

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THE COLOSSUS OF RHODES

The Colossus of Rhodes is featured on this unofficial 2021 500 Drachma of Rhodes.  The Colossus was a statue of the Greek sun god Helios that was erected in 280BC at the mouth of the harbor of Rhodes.  It was some 108 feet(33m) high, approximately the height of the Statue of Liberty from head to feet.  It was one of the seven ancient wonders of the world.  It collapsed during an earthquake in 226BC.  The broken statue remained in place until the Arab conquest of Rhodes in 653AD, and it was sold for scrap metal.    Rhodes is an island off the coast of Turkey.  In 1309, the Knights Hospitaller took over the island and made it their headquarters until it was conquered by Suleyman the Magnificent in 1522 after a long siege.  Italy seized the territory in 1912 and in 1947 it was united with Greece.   The obverse of the eight-sided silver-plated brass Proof coin features the Rhodes coat of arms.  The coin has a mintage of only 145 pieces.

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SAVAGE ISLANDS COIN FEATURES BIRDS

The Savage Islands, also known as the Selvagens or Salvage Islands is an uninhabited archipelago belonging to Portugal midway between Madeira and the Canary Islands.  Since 1971 it has been a nature reserve.  This unofficial 8-sided 2022 Savage Islands 200 Escudos depicts two Pink Terns and a Madeira Lizard on one side and the coat of arms on the other.  The 40mm Proof silver-plated brass coins have a mintage of just 145 pieces.

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REINDEER ON COIN OF THE REPUBLIC OF KARELIA

The Republic of Karelia is an autonomous republic that remained part of Russia after the collapse of the Soviet Union in 1991.  It was originally formed in 1923 as part of the Soviet Union.  Between 1939 and 1944 Finland and the Soviet Union fought over Karelia which resulted in Finland losing large portions of its Finnish Karelia to the Soviet Union.  This unofficial 2021 dated 50 Rubles of the Republic of Karelia features two reindeer on one side and the arms of Karelia on the other.  The six-sided 39mm silver-plated brass coin has a mintage of 170 pieces and is Proof.

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CASTLES AND BEETLES OF LIECHTENSTEIN

Two unofficial 2021 Liechtenstein coins featuring historic castles of the House of Liechtenstein and native species of beetles (or perhaps the castles are infested with beetles) have been released.  The House of Lichtenstein was a wealthy Austrian family with extensive holdings in central Europe.  In the late 17th and early 18th century the family purchased what is now the Principality of Liechtenstein in order to gain the prestige and power having a seat in the Imperial Diet (Reichstag) and being a member state of the Holy Roman Empire.  Until World War II the ruling family rarely visited Liechtenstein, instead lived in their castles in what is now the Czech Republic.  In 1939 Nazi Germany seized their castles and land and the family fled to Liechtenstein.  Their property was nationalized by the communists following World War II.  Today the castles are museums and are UNESCO world heritage sites.  Valtice Castle was founded in the 12th century and extensively updated in the 17th and 18th centuries.  Lednice Castle is one of the most beautiful examples of English-Neo Gothic architecture in the world.  100 Franc coins were made featuring each castle.  A Rhinoceros beetle is on the coin depicting the Valtice castle.  A Stag beetle is on the coin depicting the Lednice castle.  The obverse of each coin depicts the castle's coat of arms. The eight-sided silver-plated Proof coins have a mintage of only 160 pieces each.

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PIEGAN BLACKFOOT INDIAN ON MONTANA COIN

A dramatic image of a Piegan Indian hunting buffalo is featured on this unofficial Montana 20 Dollar coin.  The hunter wears a buffalo head dress in order to blend in with the heard is shooting an arrow while holding another arrow in his mouth.  The traditional Piegan homelands were divided between the United States and Canada. Those on the United States side became part of the Blackfoot Nation and settled on the Blackfoot reservation in Montana.  Those on the Canadian side became part of the Piikani Nation in Alberta.  The odd-shaped 2020 dated coin features a star and the Montana coat of arms on the obverse.  The silver-plated Proof coin is 40mm x 30mm and  has a mintage of only 160 pieces.

Item MONTANA MONTANA 20 DOLLARS 2020 PROOF $19.95

Also see:
INDIANS FEATURED ON 2020 LOW MINTAGE 20 DOLLAR COINS OF ARIZONA, DAKOTA, DELAWARE & WYOMING

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CAMERIA COIN FEATURES SNAKE EAGLE

Cameria (Chameria) is a region of southern Albania and north-western Greece bordering the Ionian Sea.  The Chams were primarily a Muslim ethnic group.  During the first half of the 20th century most Chams in Greece were expelled, emegrated or assimilated into Greek culture.  The Democratic Foundation of Chameria, a pro=indepenence movement, was founded in 2006 in Hague, Netherlands.  The organization seems to have disappeared in 2019, after the murder of its chair and disputes over the goals of the organization.  The 2020 dated 500 Leke Proof coin depicts a Short-toed snake eagle (Circaetus gallicus) holding a snake in its talons one side. The other side has the arms of Cameria.  The six-sided silver-plated Proof coin is 39mm and has a mintage of only 160 pieces.

Item CAMERIA CAMERIA 500 LEKE 2020 PROOF $19.95

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INDIANS FEATURED ON LOW MINTAGE STATE 20 DOLLAR COINS

Unofficial odd-shaped state 20 Dollar coins featuring American Indians were recently minted by a Russian coin dealer.  The attractive and artistic silver-plated coins have a mintage of only 160 pieces each.   Each coin depicts Native Americans from tribes of that state.  The six-sided 39mm Arizona coin depicts an Elk on  the obverse and Navaho dancer on the reverse.  The Dakota issue is a five-sided, 36mm coin depicting a standing Dakota Indian with a deer in the background.  The obverse depicts the American Eagle emblem from the flag of North Dakota.  The Delaware issue depicts two Indians armed with rifles and a war club on one side and the Delaware coat of arms on the other.  The eight-sided coin is 40mm. The eight-sided 40mm Wyoming coin depicts the state seal on the obverse and two Indians and their horses on the reverse.   All four coins are dated 2020.  The silver-plated Proof coins have a mintage of only 160 pieces each.

Item AZ-20D ARIZONA 20 DOLLARS 2020 PROOF $19.95

Item DAKOTA-20D DAKOTA 20 DOLLARS 2020 PROOF $19.95

Item DE-20D DELAWARE 20 DOLLARS 2020 PROOF $19.95

Item WY-20D WYOMING 20 DOLLARS 2020 PROOF $19.95

Also see:
PIEGAN BLACKFOOT INDIAN ON MONTANA COIN: 20 Dollars 2020

COINS OF AMERICAN INDIAN NATIONS

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VERY RARE ODD DENOMINATION ARAUCANIA-PATAGONIA COIN

The Kingdom of Araucania-Patagonia was founded in 1860 when French adventurer Orelie-Antoine de Tounens, was elected King by the indigenous Mapuche.  The Mapuche hoped he would assist in their struggle to retain their independence in the face of military and economic encroachment by Chile and Argentina. He claimed a large territory covering the parts of Chile and southern Argentina.  The country never received diplomatic recognition.  He died penniless in France in 1878.  Since then the throne of Araucania-Patagonia has been passed down,  In 1952 Philippe Paul Alexandre Henri Boiry took the throne of Arucania-Patagonia with the title Prince Phillipe.  He died in 2014 at age 87.   Araucania-Patagonia issued this 87 Pesos coin in 2014 to honor Prince Phillppe.  The Prince appears on the obverse  Unfortunately there was an engraving error on the reverse of the initial batch of coins.  The reverse bears the inscription in Spanish "To the memory of Prince Felipe / 1921 * 2014". The correct date of his birth is 1927, not 1921.  Only 25 pieces of the 38.2 copper-nickel coins were struck before the error was discovered and a new die prepared, making it extraordinarily rare.   The coin has a matte finish.  

Item AP-87ERR ARAUCANIA-PATAGONIA 87 PESOS 2014 ERROR DATE COIN, MATTE UNC. $85.00

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VITEBSK PEOPLE'S REPUBLIC FEATURES LENIN

Vitebsk is the northern region of Belarus, bordering Russia, Latvia and Lithuania. Recently Russia has been circulating the idea of creating the Vitebsk People's Republic, which would be a puppet state of Moscow rather than part of Belarus.  Shortly there after an unofficial coin for the Vitebsk People's Republic was issued by a Russian coin dealer.  The 2020 dated 20 Rubles commemorates the 150th Anniversary of the birth of Lenin.  One side of the silver-plated Proof coin depicts the bust of Lenin.  The other side depicts the coat of arms in red and gold.   The odd-shaped coin measures 40x30mm and has a mintage of only 140 pieces.

Item VITEBSK VITEBSK PEOPLE'S REPUBLIC 20 RUBLES 2020 PROOF $22.00

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CALIFORNIA REPUBLIC COINS

A movement to create California as an independent nation has been active for some years. The movement is headed by a New Yorker living in Russia. It appears most its funding is from Russia and social media support from both Russia and Iran.   The movement has found little backing within the state, (though there are probably some conservatives who would be happy to see California leave the Union.)  Recently a Russian coin dealer created two beautiful coins for the California Republic. Both coins are denominated as 20 California Dollars and are dated 2020.  They are 40mm eight-sided, silver plated Proof coins.  One depicts a Bobcat and her kitten in Yosemite Valley.  The other features Minerva and sailing ships.  The design is from the state seal.  The reverses of both coins depict a Grizzly Bear and the words "CALIFORNIA REPUBLIC". The design comes from the California State Flag.  The Bear Flag Republic design is based on a flag used in the 1846 revolt against Mexico.   Each coin has a mintage of only 160 pieces.

Item CAL-YOSEMITE CALIFORNIA REPUBLIC 20 DOLLARS 2020 BOBCAT-YOSEMITE PROOF $19.95

Item CAL-MINERVA CALIFORNIA REPUBLIC 20 DOLLARS 2020 MINERVA & SHIPS PROOF $19.95

Item CAL-BOTH BOTH OF THE ABOVE CALIFORNIA REPUBLIC COINS PROOF $39.50

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KNIGHTS OF MALTA  COIN SET SAINT POPE JOHN PAUL II

 

The ministry of Saint Pope John Paul II is commemorated in thei 5 coin set issuedby the Sovereign Hospitaler Order of Malta.  The Sovereign Hospitaller Order of Malta is an independent branch of of the Knights of Malta, which traces its origins back to the Eleventh Century when it cared for sick and poor pilgrims to the Holy Land.  The set includes five 24.25mm copper-nickel 1 Lire coins in an attractive red folder. The coins were struck shortly after the Pope's death in 2005.  The designs of the coins depict "Portrait of John Paul II",  "Becoming the Pope", "Insignias of the Pope", "Arrival of the Pope in Poland",  and "Praying at the Wailing Wall".  The reverses feature the arms of the Order, date and denomination.

Item MALTA-POPE ORDER OF MALTA 2005 5 COIN SET, Br.X321-325 UNC. $19.95

Also see:
BOOK: THE COINS OF THE GRAND MASTERS OF THE ORDER OF MALTA by Robert Morris

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MINOTAUR ON 2020 CRETE COIN 

In Greek mythology the Minotaur as a creature that was part man, part bull.  It was contained the elaborate and confusing Labyrinth on Crete.  The Minotaur is featured on the reverse of this unofficial five-sided 500 Drachmai of Crete.  The obverse features the coat of arms of Crete.  The silver-plated Proof coin is 36mm and has a mintage of just 160 pieces.

Item CRETE CRETE 500 DRACHMAI 2020 PROOF $19.95

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GOLIATH HERON ON COIN OF DAHLAC

Dahlac is an archipelago of over 100 islands located in the Red Sea, only four of which are permanently inhabited. It has a population of about 2500.  In Roman times it was famous for its pearls. Even today it still has a small pearl diving industry. Over the centuries it has been used as a prison and a major conduit of trade and slaves between Africa and Arabia.  Recently it has become a popular destination for yacht cruising and scuba divers.  It is currently controlled by Eritrea.  This unofficial six-sided 2020 50 Nafka coin of Dahlac depicts a Goliath Heron on the reverse.  The large bird can reach up to 5 feet (152cm) and have a 7.5 foot (230cm) wingspan. The emblem of Dahlac featuring a camel is on the obverse.  The silver-plated Proof coin has a mintage of only 160 pieces.

Item DAHLAC DAHLAC 50 NAFKA 2020 PROOF $19.95

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ROTUMA COIN FEATURES NATIVE BIRD

Rotuma is an island controlled by Fiji that is located some 400 miles (645km) north of Fiji.  It has approximately 1600 inhabitants which have a distinct language and culture from Fiji.  In 1987 a part-Rotuman man named Henry Gibson proclaimed the independence of Rotuma and declared himself king of the Republic of Rotuma.  (I am not sure how one can be the king of a republic).  The independence movement seems to have died out soon thereafter.  In 2020 an unofficial coin was struck for Rotuma.  The 39mm scalloped 50 Pa'atuna coin depicts a Rotuma myzomela bird (Myzomela chermesina).  The other side depicts the arms of Rotuma. The Proof coin has a mintage of just 160 pieces.

Item ROTUMA ROTUMA 50 PA'ATUNA 2020 PROOF $19.95

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BI-METALLIC OF MOLDAVIAN REPUBLIC OF DNIESTR FEATURES POPE JOHN PAUL II 

This unofficial bi-metallic 100 Ruble coin picturing Pope John Paul II was issued for The Moldavian Republic of Dniestr, also known as Transniestria or Transdniestra. The national arm featuring a hammer and sickle and a star is on the back of the 2011 dated coin.  The small, communist state bordering the Dniester river declared independence from Moldova in 1990.  Though its independence is not widely recognized, it operates as a sovereign nation.  The 26mm coin has a mintage of only 2500 pieces and is Uncirculated.

Item TNS-100R MOLDAVIAN REPUBLIC OF DNIESTR 100 ROUBLES 2011 POPE JOHN PAUL II, UNC. $9.75

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SCARCE BI-METALLIC COINS OF SAHRAWI   

The Sahrawi Arab Democratic Republic, also known as Sahraui, is what used to be the Spanish Sahara or Western Sahara.  In 2004 Saharawi issued two bi-metallic 500 Peseta coins.  One coin features a cute pair of Fennecs, a long eared desert fox that is native to Saharawi. The other commemorates the 28th anniversary of nation’s independence (though in reality it is largely controlled by Morocco) and features a map of the country.  The obverse of both coins features the arms of Saharawi, which includes a pair of rifles.  The coins are 26mm in diameter and have a mintage of only 5000 pieces each.

Item EH-FEN SAHRAWI 500 PESETAS 2004 FENNEC FOXES Br.X51 UNC. $15.00

Item EH-IND SAHRAWI 500 PESETAS 2004 INDEPENDENCE Br.X52 UNC. $15.00

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SAHRAWI ARAB DEMOCRATIC REPUBLIC 2010 BI-METALLIC HONORS ARAB CULTURE  

This 2010 dated bi-metal 500 Peseta coin of the Sahrawi Arab Democratic Republic honors Arab culture.  The coin was issued in conjunction with the Namur Expo in 2010.  One side depicts  the national arms which feature a pair of crossed rifles holding flags.  The other depicts traditional Arab hospitality, with one man preparing tea over a small fire while the other plays a flute.  Saharawi, formerly known as Spanish Sahara, declared independence in 1976, however Morocco controls most of its territory.   The 26mm coin has a mintage of only 2500 pieces and is Uncirculated.

Item EH-ARAB SAHRAWI 500 PESETAS 2010 BIMETAL UNC. $9.75

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MODERN COINS OF KURDISTAN 

The Kurds are an ethnic group divided between Iraq, Turkey and Syria. Their attempts to establish a Kurdish nation have been repeatedly thwarted by outside powers. In 2003, after the fall of Saddam Hussein in Iraq, overseas Kurdish groups authorized the issuance of coins for what they expected would be their new independent nation.  Because of objections from neighboring Turkey, the United States did not allow the establishment of Kurdistan. Though the Kurds greatly assisted the United States by providing ground forces to fight ISIS in Syria and Iraq, in 2019 the United States again betrayed by withdrawing United States troops and abandoning them to Turkish and Russian forces. 

The 2003 1 Dinar depicts the most famous Kurd of all time: Saladin.  He is depicted on horseback carrying a modern Kurdish flag. Saladin founded the powerful Ayyubid Dynasty in 1169.  His diplomatic skills, backed by well-disciplined army enabled him to gain control of Egypt, Palestine and Syria from Islamic as well as Christian opponents.  Even his opponents admired him for his chivalry, justice and piety. The 27.4mm coin is struck in bronze-plated zinc.

The 2003 10 Dinar depicts a fallow deer.  The 39mm coin is struck in copper-nickel.

The reverses of all the coins depicts the Kurdish emblem featuring the sun rising over three mountains. 

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MAUI TRADE DOLLARS

Maui is one of the most popular tourist destinations of the Hawaiian Islands.  It is famous for its beach resorts, quaint towns, diverse geography and outdoor activities. Beginning in 1992 Maui Trade Dollar Association began annually issuing a 39mm copper-nickel "Trade Dollar".  The attractive designs featured native wildlife or culture. The coins could be spent at participating Maui merchants during the year in which they were issued.  They quickly became a popular collectible with both tourists and numismatists.  Until 2008 the coin had a face value of 1 Dollar.   The issues from 2008 to 2017 issues had a face value of 2 Dollars.  In 2018 new management took over the Maui Trade Dollar Association, removed face value of the coins and ended up killing what had been a successful program.  They are beautiful coins from a beautiful island.

Item MAUI18 MAUI 2018 TRADE DOLLAR, WHALE & ROCK DIVER BU $6.00

Item MAUI18x20 ROLL OF 20 MAUI 2018 TRADE DOLLAR COINS, BU $75.00

Item MAUI17 MAUI 2017 TRADE 2 DOLLAR, OWL BU $6.00

Item MAUI16 MAUI 2016 TRADE 2 DOLLAR, HUMPBACK WHALE BU $6.00

Item MAUI15 MAUI 2015 TRADE 2 DOLLAR, SURFER AND DOLPHIN BU $6.00

Item MAUI15x20 ROLL OF 20 MAUI 2015 TRADE 2 DOLLAR  BU $75.00

Item MAUI14 MAUI 2014 TRADE 2 DOLLAR, TIKI BU $6.00

Item MAUI14x20 ROLL OF 20 MAUI 2014 TRADE 2 DOLLAR COINS, BU $75.00

 Item MAUI04 MAUI 2004 TRADE DOLLAR, TURTLE & FISH UNC. $6.00

 Item MAUI03 MAUI 2003 TRADE DOLLAR, DOLPHIN & SEAL UNC. $6.00

Item MAUI97 MAUI 1997 TRADE DOLLAR, 3 WHALES UNC. $6.00

Item MAUI96 MAUI 1996 TRADE DOLLAR, PARROTT UNC. $6.00

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WHALE ON RECTANGULAR GALAPAGOS $8 COIN

A humpback whale is pictured this rectangular 8 dollar coin from the Galapagos Islands. The coin is the first in a series of coins issued for the isolated islands. The reverse features the arms of the islands. The islands are famous for their wide array of unusual wildlife. The Galapagos is a posession of Ecuador. Since 2000 the United States dollar has been Ecuador's official currency, thus the coin is denominated in U.S. dollars. Like most odd-ball coins, it is not meant to circulate, and it is not a legal tender issue. The attractive and unusual coin is struck in silver-plated brass. It has a mintage of only 3000 pieces.

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VERY RARE RUSSIAN IMPERIAL UNION ORDER PRESENTATION COINS

The Russian Imperial Union Order was founded in Paris in 1929 by a group of Russian exiles in order to promote the legitimate line of the Russian Czar and re-establish Russia as a monarchy.  In 1989 it struck a 1 Ruble to commemorate the 60th anniversary of the organization. The obverse depicts the emblem of the order: the Czarist eagle with a sword. The inscriptions translate as: "Russian Imperial Union-Order",  "For the Faith, the Czar and the Fatherland", "1929-1989", "60 years of struggle" and "We are Russian, God is with us". The reverse depicts the portrait of Czar Nicholas II with inscriptions: "1894-1917" (the dates of his reign), "Only National Assembly will choose the worthy successor" and the denomination "Ruble".  The coins are 38.25mm in diameters. Examples struck in copper, silver and gold were sold to supporters and the public as a fundraiser.  In addition 60 pieces were struck in copper-nickel with an antiqued finish and 28 Essais were struck in antiqued bronze for presentation purposes. The Essai features the czarist eagle obverse on one side and the word Essai in Russian on the other.   These rare presentation coins have not been available to the public until now. 

Item RIUO-1R RUSSIAN IMPERIAL UNION ORDER 1 RUBLE 1989 Copper-Nickel OUT

Item RIUO-ESSAI RUSSIAN IMPERIAL UNION ORDER ESSAI 1989, Bronze $80.00

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COLUMBUS ON ST. CROIX, VIRGIN ISLANDS DOLLAR  

Christopher Columbus and one of his ships is depicted on this unofficial 2015 dated 1 Dollar coin from St. Croix.  Columbus landed on the island in November 1493 and was attacked by the native Caribs (Kalinagos).  Over the years ownership of the island passed between Spain, the Netherlands, the Knights of Malta, Great Britain, France and Denmark.  Denmark sold it, along with St. Thomas and St. John to the United States in 1916, during World War I.  Today it is part of the United States Virgin Islands.   The obverse  of the coin features a Bananaquit bird, the state bird of the U.S. Virgin Islands, perched on the letters “SC”.  Below is the original Spanish name for the Virgin Islands.   The 40mm Proof coin is struck on silver plated brass and has a mintage of just 250 pieces.

Item CROIX ST. CROIX 1 DOLLAR 2015, COLUMBUS PROOF $22.00

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CARIB INDIANS ON ST. JOHN, VIRGIN ISLANDS DOLLAR

Saint John is the smallest of the three main United States Virgin Islands.  Approximately 60% is a National Park.  This unofficial 2015 1 Dollar coin of St. John depicts two native Island Caribs on the reverse.  In the 18th Century Denmark established sugar plantations on the island and enslaved the Caribs to work on the plantations.  The native population was quickly decimated by diseases.  In 1917 Denmark sold the islands to the United States.  The obverse features a Bananaquit bird, the state bird of the U.S. Virgin Islands, perched on the letters “SJ”.  Below is the original Spanish name for the Virgin Islands: Islas Santa Ursla Y Once Mil Virgenes (Islands of St. Ursla and Eleven Thousand Virgins). The 40mm Proof coin is struck on silver plated brass and has a mintage of only 250 pieces.

Item JOHN ST. JOHN 1 DOLLAR 2015, CARIBS PROOF $22.00

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COINS OF WIKINGLAND

The Principality of Wikingland was founded in 1977 by Swedish resident Reinhold Wendling, who called himself Prince Reinhold I.  His plan was to create a libertarian state on man-made islands in the North Sea or Baltic Sea, by adding landfill to shallow sandbanks, raising them above sea level.  The capital, Vahalla, would be covered by a giant Plexiglas dome in order to assure pleasant weather all year around.  The plan never got very far, probably due to its enormous expense.  However Wikingland did issue coins, stamps and passports.  The following coins of Wikingland date from the 1980’s and 1990’s. They have a common obverse which has the Prince’s title, a large “R1” for Reinhold I and the denomination: 10 Wiking Mark.   All are 38.6mm in diameter, struck in nickel-silver with an antique finish and have a reeded edge.  The 1993 issue depicts Thor’s hammer and is struck in high relief.  It has a mintage of only 300 pieces. The regular 1994 issues feature a stylized Yggdrasil and the 24 runes of the Elder Futhark alphabet.  In Norse mythology the Yggdrasil is the Tree of Life that binds heaven, earth and hell together.  Elder Futhark is the oldest form of Runic.  It was used between about the 2nd and 8th Centuries.  There are two versions of the coin, one with the date Runic Year 2244 to the right of the Yggdrasil.  It has a mintage of just 250 pieces.  There is also an error version without the date. Only 44 pieces of the error version were struck.  The 1995 issue depicts the 28 runes of Anglo-Saxon Futhorc, which was the first alphabet of the English language.  It is dated Runic Year 2245.   The 1996 issue depicts a stylized Viking ship and the 16 runes of Younger Futhark, also called Danish Furthark or Norse Furthark.  It was use during most of the Viking period, from about the 8th to 12th Centuries.   With the Christianization of Scandinavia it was gradually replaced by the Latin alphabet.  The coin is not dated.  It has a mintage of 250 pieces.  It is a fascinating series coins for a new, yet to be built Scandinavian society using elements from the old Viking society.

Item WIK-93 WIKINGLAND 10 WIKING MARK 1993 THOR’S HAMMER $55.00

Item WIK-94 WIKINGLAND 10 WIKING MARK YEAR 2244 (1994) WITH DATE $45.00

Item WIK-94E WIKINGLAND 10 WIKING MARK (1994) WITHOUT DATE $55.00

Item WIK-95 WIKINGLAND 10 WIKING MARK 2245 (1995) ANGLO-SAXON FURHOC $45.00

Item WIK-96 WIKINGLAND 10 WIKING MARK (1996) YOUNGER FUTHARK $45.00

Item WIK-SET SET OF ALL 5 OF THE ABOVE WIKINGLAND COINS $220.00

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SCARCE FANTASY COIN OF HEJAZ 

This scarce fantasy silver Hejaz 10 Piastres or  1/2 Riyal was made to appear to be an early coin of Hejaz.  It is dated AH1334, Year 8 (1923) and bears the legends that was struck in Mecca (“Makka al-Mukarrama”).  In reality it was struck some years ago in the United States.  The coins is technically Uncirculated, however was given an “antiqued” finish.  The 27.8mm coin has a reeded edge.  It is a scarce coin and given the popularity of Saudi Arabian related coins, is sure to be in demand.

Item HEJAZ10P HEJAZ 10 PIASTRES FANTASY COIN Br.X2  ANTIQUED UNC. $75.00

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BERMANIA TICKLE TOKEN

Bermania is a fantasy kingdom created by coin dealer Allen G. Berman. In 2014 Bermania issued Tickle Token.  It is modeled after the medieval English Touch Pieces. In the 17th Century English Kings would bless sufferers of scrofula by touching them with coins.  The touch coins were modeled after the gold Angel: one side featured the Archangel Michael and a ship was on the other.  Each piece was personally bestowed by the monarch.  Word of this got around to Bermania, where it was believed that a tickle by the king would cure glumness.  These tokens were sold those seeking admission to the Royal Tickle Ceremony of King Placebus I of Bermania.  One side pictures an angel tickling a dragon with a giant feather. The other depicts the Bermanian Pirate ship Soggy Bear.  The 27mm copper token is Brilliant Uncirculated.  Even if you don’t get tickled, it is good for a laugh.

Item BERM-TICKLE BERMANIA TICKLE TOKEN,  BU $7.50

Also see:
BERMANIA CELEBRATES 50th ANNIVERSARY OF FIG REVOLT 5 Denari Plumbi 2024

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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.

Item ANDSET ANDAMAN & NICOBAR IS. 7 COIN SET, 2011 UNC. $29.50

INDIVIDUAL COINS FROM THE ABOVE ANDAMAN AND NICOBAR COIN SET:

Item AND20R ANDAMAN & NICOBAR IS. 20 RUPEE NAUTILUS BIMETALLIC, 2011 UNC. $12.00

Item AND10R ANDAMAN & NICOBAR IS. 10 RUPEE DUGONG BIMETALLIC, 2011 UNC. $10.00

Item AND5R ANDAMAN & NICOBAR IS. 5 RUPEE WILD BOAR, 2011 UNC. $5.00

Item AND2R ANDAMAN & NICOBAR IS. 2 RUPEE COCONUT CRAB, 2011 UNC. $4.50

Item AND1R ANDAMAN & NICOBAR IS. 1 RUPEE FLYING GECKO, 2011 UNC. $4.00

Item AND50P ANDAMAN & NICOBAR IS. 50 PAISA KINGFISHER, 2011 UNC. $3.00

Item AND25P ANDAMAN & NICOBAR IS. 25 PAISA BUTTERFLY, 2011 UNC. $3.00

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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.

Item FO-SET8 FAROE 8 COIN SET 25 OYRU - 50 KRONUR, 2011 UNC. $29.95

INDIVIDUAL COINS FROM THE ABOVE FAROE SET

Item FO-50KR FAROE 50 KRONUR 2011 RAM'S HEAD TRIMETALLIC UNC. $14.50

Item FO-20KR FAROE 20 KRONUR 2011 GRAY SEAL UNC. $8.00

Item FO-10KR FAROE 10 KRONUR 2011 SHAD UNC. $6.00

Item FO-5KR FAROE 5 KRONUR 2011 OYSTERCATCHER UNC. $6.00

Item FO-2KR FAROE 2 KRONER 2011 GUILLEMOT UNC. $5.00

Item FO-1KR FAROE 1 KRONA 2011 PUFFIN UNC. $4.50

Item FO-50-OYRU FAROE 50 OYRU 2011 SHEEP DOG UNC. $4.00

Item FO-25-OYRU FAROE 25 OYRU 2011 CRAB UNC. $3.50

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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.

Item FM-SET8 MICRONESIA 8 COIN SET: 1 CENT – 5 DOLLARS, 2012 UNC. $29.75

INDIVIDUAL MICRONESIA COINS FROM ABOVE SET:

Item FM-5D MICRONESIA 5 DOLLARS 2012 PYGMY KILLER WHALE, BIMETAL, UNC. $9.00

Item FM-2D MICRONESIA 2 DOLLARS 2012 DOLPHIN, BIMETAL, UNC. $8.00

Item FM-1D MICRONESIA 1 DOLLAR 2012 MANTA RAY UNC. $5.00

Item FM-50c MICRONESIA HALF DOLLAR 2012 BOAT & SHELLS UNC. $5.00

Item FM-25c MICRONESIA QUARTER DOLLAR 2012 TUNA UNC. $4.50

Item FM-10c MICRONESIA DIME 2012 HERON UNC. $4.00

Item FM-5c MICRONESIA 5 CENTS 2012 MOORISH IDOL UNC. $3.50

Item FM-1c MICRONESIA 1 CENT 2012 FLYING FOX UNC. $3.00

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WHERE IS PURPLE SHAFTIEULAND?

You won't find Purple Shaftieuland in any atlas. The Purple Shaftieuland coins were created by coin dealer Bob Kolasa in 1970 as a spoof on foreign aid and the numerous coin sets being issued by obscure nations. The set of 5 coins includes a 16mm 1 Nudge, a 22mm 1 Twist, and 38mm 1/4, 1/2 and a Full Shaft. The coins were struck in both “brilliant brass” and “genuine unanodized aluminum” and come with a politically incorrect “brochure”. The coins are Uncirculated, though may show some minor spotting from sitting in storage since 1970. It is an interesting and fun fantasy issue.

Item PURPLE-BRSET SET OF 5 BRASS PURPLE SHAFTIEULAND COINS, 1970 UNC.-spots $35.00

Item PURPLE-ALSET SET OF 5 ALUMINUM PURPLE SHAFTIEULAND COINS, 1970 UNC. $25.00

Item PURPLE-1 PURPLE SHAFTIEULAND ALUMINUM COIN, Joel's choice UNC. $5.00

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FRENCH TERRITORIAL COINS FOR ANTARCTICA 

These unofficial coins were issued for France’s minor, and largely uninhabited territories near Antarctica. The territories arms appear on the obverse of each coin and the coins share a common reverse. The 30mm brass 100 Franc coins feature an albatross in flight. The 24mm bi-metallic 200 Francs depicts a mother and father penguin looking at their chick. The 28.5mm bi-metallic 500 Francs pictures two Sperm Whales (Cachalot in French). Adelie Land is the French claim of a slice of the Antarctic continent, which is not internationally recognized. The arms feature a crowned penguin. The Crozet Islands are a group of desolate, wet and windy islands in the Southern Indian Ocean that belong to France. It rains about 300 days a year and has winds over 60 mph (100 km/h) 100 days a year. Its only inhabitants are based at a research station. It is the site of many shipwrecks. In 1887 a shipwrecked crew attached a note to an albatross, which was found seven months later in later in Fremantle, Australia. Unfortunately by the time a rescue ship arrived the crew had perished. The arms of Crozet Islands depict a pig and half of a ship's wheel. Pigs had been introduced to provide food for stranded sailors, but have now been exterminated in an attempt to restore the original ecosystem. French Antarctic Territory is administrative grouping for all of these tiny French territories. The arms depict an iceberg. The Kereguelen Islands, also known as the Desolation Islands are the home to 50 to 100 scientists and researchers and a staff that runs a satellite tracking station. It arms depict an unusual native plant. Amsterdam Island and St. Paul Island are volcanic islands in the Southern Indian Ocean. The coat-of-arms features a spiny lobster. In 1928 a French established a lobster cannery on St. Paul. When the company went bankrupt in 1931, seven of its employees were stranded on the island. Five died, and the only two survivors were finally rescued in 1934. All the coins are dated 2011 and are Uncirculated.

Item ADELIE-100F ADELIE LAND 100 FRANCS 2011 AU-UNC. $12.00

Item ADELIE-200F ADELIE LAND 200 FRANCS 2011 AU-UNC. $16.00

Item ADELIE-500F ADELIE LAND 500 FRANCS 2011 AU-UNC. $18.00

Item ADELIE-SET SET OF ABOVE ADELIE LAND COINS: 100, 200 & 500 FRANCS 2011, AU-UNC. $39.00

Item CROZET-100F CROZET ISLANDS 100 FRANCS 2011 AU-UNC. $12.00

Item CROZET-200F CROZET ISLANDS 200 FRANCS 2011 AU-UNC. $16.00

Item CROZET-500F CROZET ISLANDS 500 FRANCS 2011 AU-UNC. $18.00

Item CROZET-SET SET OF ABOVE CROZET IS. COINS: 100, 200 & 500 FRANCS 2011, AU-UNC. $39.00

Item FR-ANT-100F FRENCH ANTARCTICA 100 FRANCS 2011 AU-UNC. SOLD

Item KERGUELEN-200F KERGUELEN ISLANDS 200 FRANCS 2011 AU-UNC. $16.00

Item KERGUELEN-500F KERGUELEN ISLANDS 500 FRANCS 2011 AU-UNC. $18.00

Item ST.PAUL-100F AMSTERDAM IS. & ST. PAUL IS. 100 FRANCS 2011 AU-UNC. $12.00

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COINS OF BASSAS DA INDIA FEATURES FRENCH SAILING SHIPS

Bassas da India is an uninhabited atoll about halfway between Madagascar and Mozambique. It is a French possession that is also claimed by Madagascar. The island is the site of numerous shipwrecks and is popular with divers. It recently issued three 2012 dated coins, each featuring a famous French warship. The 30mm brass 100 Francs depicts the galleon La Couronne on the other. La Couronne was France’s first Man of War. The ship, built for Cardinal Richelieu in 1636, carried 68 heavy cannons. The 22mm bi-metallic 200 Franc features the frigate Le Soleil Royal (The Royal Sun). Launched in 1669, the 104 gun ship was a powerful and beautifully decorated vessel was a symbol of the power of Louis XIV. The ship was destroyed by a joint British and Dutch force in 1692. The 28.5mm bi-metallic 500 Francs pictures the battleship Formidable. Launched in 1751, the ship took part in the Canadian campaign of 1755. She was captured by the British in 1759 in the Battle of Quiberon Bay, off the coast of France and became the HMS Formidable in the Royal Navy. In 1768 she was dismantled. The reverse of the coins picture the arms of the island which feature two dolphins and a seahorse. All three coins are Uncirculated.

Item BAS-INDIA-100F BASSAS DA INDIA 100 FRANCS 2012 UNC. out

Item BAS-INDIA-200F BASSAS DA INDIA 200 FRANCS 2012 UNC. $22.00

Item BAS-INDIA-500F BASSAS DA INDIA 500 FRANCS 2012 UNC. $24.00

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FIRST COINS FROM CLIPPERTON ISLAND INCLUDES BIMETALLICS 

Clipperton Island is an uninhabited French territory in the Pacific. It was named after John Clipperton, an English Pirate who used it as a base for attacking Spanish shipping during the 18th Century. Over the years the atoll has been claimed by the United States, Mexico and France. In 1909 arbitration of the competing claims to island between France and Mexico was given to Italian King Victor Emmanuel III. In an attempt to boost its claim to the Island, Mexico settled some 100 men, women and children on the island by 1914. The Mexican Revolution prevented supply ships from visiting the island. The governor of the island turned down an attempt to evacuate, and soon its inhabitants were dying of disease and starvation, which then degenerated into an orgy of rapes and murders. The last surviving inhabitants’ four women and seven children were rescued in by the U.S. Navy in 1917. In 1931 Victor Emmanuel finally decided to award the island to France, some 22 years after he was given the case. It was of the longest international arbitrations in history! During World War II, U.S. President Franklin Roosevelt visited the island twice to see about setting up an American base. This 2011 dated 100 Francs is the first coin issue for Clipperton Islands. The 30mm aluminum-bronze coin pictures the island on one side, and a picture of the Conus Ebareus (Black and White cone) shell on the other. Bimetallic 100 and 500 Francs coins were released a short time later. The 24mm bi-metallic 200 Francs depicts an Epinephelus Clippertonensis, a recently discovered species of fish found only in the Clipperton Lagoon.   The 28mm bi-metallic 500 Francs pictures the Holacanthus Limbaughi, also known as the Clipperton Angelfish, which is also only found in the Lagoon. A map of the island on the obverse of both coins.

Item CLIPPERTON-100F CLIPPERTON ISLAND 100 FRANCS 2011 UNC.  out

Item CLIPPERTON-200F CLIPPERTON ISLAND 200 FRANCS 2011 AU-UNC. $22.00

Item CLIPPERTON-500F CLIPPERTON ISLAND 500 FRANCS 2011 AU-UNC. $24.00

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BI-METALLIC 2011 COINS FROM CABINDA AND REDONDA 

To commemorate the 50th anniversary of the World Wide Fund for Nature, also known as the World Wildlife Fund (WWF), bi-metallic coins have been issued for the unrecognized states of Cabinda and Redonda by a firm in China. Cabinda is a former Portuguese colony in West Africa that is controlled by Angola. The bi-metallic 2011 Cabinda 3 Reis features a variety of wildlife along the edge, including a lion, lizard. butterfly, fish, elephant, squid, ostrich and a frog. The other side features the Panda logo of the WWF and the seal of the Banco de Cabinda. Representatives of Cabinda claim that its issues are not authorized by them. The bi-metallic 2 Dollar coin from Redonda features a Manatee one side. The arms of the Kingdom of Redonda and the Panda logo of the WWF are on the other side. Redonda is a small island in the Caribbean that was discovered by Columbus in 1493. During the late 19th century it was heavily mined for its rich guano deposits. The mining operations ceased during the First World War, and it has been uninhabited since then. The Kingdom of Redonda was first mentioned in the novels of West Indian author M.P. Shiel, who claimed to be King Felipe of Redonda. Since then there have been various claimants to the throne. Both coins are Uncirculated.

Item CABINDA-WWF CABINDA 3 REIS 2011 WWF UNC. $15.00

Item REDONDA-WWF KINGDOM OF REDONDA 2 DOLLARS 2011 WWF UNC. $15.00

Item WWF-SET2 Above 2 bi-metallic coins: CABINDA & REDONDA WWF, 2011 Unc. $25.00

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THE EMPIRE OF ATLANTIUM 

You may not recall seeing The Empire of Atlantium on your world map That is because it is a self-declared nation that consists of only 61 square meters located in South Sydney, Australia, though claims to have citizens throughout the world. The 61 square meters of territory also doubles as the apartment of one of its founders and its Emperor, George II, more commonly known as George Cruickshank. Atlantium uses an unusual dating system, called the Annus Novus Decimal Calendar, that starts at the end of the last Ice Age. To celebrate the 20th Anniversary of its founding, the Empire of Atlantium issued a 38mm, gold-plated 10 Soldi coin struck in very high relief. One side pictures Emperor George II, the other pictures an Eagle from the Imperial Arms. The coin is dated 10520 (2001AD) in the Annus Novus Decimal Calendar and has a mintage of only 511 pieces. In 2011 a bi-metallic 30 Soldi coin was issued to celebrate the 30th anniversary of Atlantium. The high relief 38mm cupronickel coin is partially plated in 9 carat gold. The obverse pictures Emperor George II, highlighted in gold, while the reverse shows a stunning Wedge-tailed Eagle (Aquila audax) highlighted in gold. It has a mintage of just 250 pieces.

Item ATLANTIUM-10S ATLANTIUM 10 SOLDI (2001) BU $25.00

Item ATLANTIUM-30S ATLANTIUM 30 SOLDI (2011) BU $40.00

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BI-METALLIC EURO COIN FROM THE FLEMISH REPUBLIC 

For over a year, Belgium has not been able to create a national government because of disagreements between the French speaking portions and the Dutch speaking portions of the country. Despite the lack of a national government (or maybe because of a lack of a national government), Belgium is doing better economically than most of Europe. A number Belgians have advocated breaking the country into two separate nations. Flanders is the Dutch speaking part of Belgium. This 2010 1 Euro coin was created for the Flemish Republic, which does not yet exist. One side has a map of Flanders with the legend Vlaams €uro (Flemish Euro). The other side features a Flemish lion.

Item FLANDERS FLEMISH REPUBLIC 1 EURO 2010 UNC. $12.00

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TRI-METALLIC COINS OF THE ARCTIC TERRITORIES FEATURE POLAR BEAR 

Two versions were struck of this 2011 tri-metallic 10 Dollar coin of Arctic Territories. Both have the same design. A walking Polar Bear is on one side. The other side depicts a map of the Arctic with the name Arctic Territories in the languages of the nations of the region. Like the 1926 Greenland 25 Ore, it comes in two versions. One version was issued with a center hole, and one was issued without the hole. Both coins are 27mm in diameter. The holed version is the only holed tri-metallic coin that I have ever seen.

Item ARCTIC-NO ARCTIC TERRITORIES TRI-METALLIC 10 DOLLARS 2011 WITHOUT HOLE UNC. $29.50

Item ARCTIC-HOLE ARCTIC TERRITORIES TRI-METALLIC 10 DOLLARS 2011 WITH HOLE UNC. $25.00

Item ARCTIC-BOTH Both of the above ARCTIC TERRITORIES 10 DOLLARS 2011 WITH and WITHOUT HOLE UNC. $49.50

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TRI-METALLIC COIN OF MARIE BYRD LAND HONORS POPE JOHN PAUL II 

Because of its remoteness in Antarctica, most of Marie Byrd Land has not been claimed by any sovereign nation, though it has been claimed by various micro-nations. It was named by explorer Admiral Richard E. Byrd in 1929 after his wife. I am sure she deserved it for putting up with his numerous explorations and adventures. In 2011 a trimetallic 10 Dollar was issued for this remote area. One side of the 27mm coin pictures Pope John Paul II and commemorates his beatification on May 1, 2011. There is a certain irony in a coin being issued honoring the Pope for the only continent that the Pope never visited. The other side shows a map of the territory and a penguin. 

Item BYRD MARIE BYRD LAND TRI-METALLIC 10 DOLLARS 2011 UNC. $9.50

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TRIBAL COINS OF GHANA 

This fascinating series of coins has been issued by a firm in Spain. High relief coins are being issued for some of the traditional kingdoms and tribes of Ghana. The Kings or Chiefs of the Kingdoms or Tribes have authorized each of the issues. The coins are not intended to circulated, but rather to be sold to raise funds for projects that benefit the Kingdoms and Tribes. The coin have a mintage of only 1000 pieces each. The King or Chief appears on the one side of the coins and items of significance to the tribe, the name of the tribe and the denomination appear on the other. The brass Eduola issue is denominated 1 Edo and features a traditional spear and shield.   A traditional drum is on the bronze 1 Eche coin of the Naajeri Tribe. The coins are all 38mm in diameter, are dated 2008 and are Uncirculated with a matte finish.

Item EDOULA EDOULA BRASS 1 EDO 2008 UNC. $19.95

Item NAAJERI NAAJERI BRONZE 1 ECHE 2008 UNC $19.95

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FIRST MODERN COINS OF DARFUR FEATURE AFRICAN WILDLIFE

The Sultanate of Darfur recently released an attractive set of seven coins that include a bi-metallic, unusual shapes and feature African wildlife. The non-circulating coins are the first modern coins for the embattled sultanate that is engaged tragic war in an attempt to regain independence from Sudan. The Bi-metallic 500 Dinars features the Nile crocodile. The eight-sided 250 Dinars pictures an African elephant. The square 100 Dinars has a leopard. The scalloped edged 50 Dinars shows a hartebeest. The 25 Dinars pictures a camel. An African civet is on the 10 Dinars, and an African wild dog is on the 5 Dinars. All coins are dated 2008 and have an Arabic inscription on the obverse.   Some coins have spots, so we grade them AU-UNC.

Item DARFUR DARFUR 7 COIN SET: 5 - 500 DINARS, 2008 AU-UNC. OUT

INDIVIDUAL DARFUR COINS FROM THE ABOVE SET:

Item DAR-5D DARFUR 5 DINARS, AFRICAN WILD DOG AU-UNC. OUT

Item DAR-10D DARFUR 10 DINARS, CIVET, AU-UNC $3.00

Item DAR-25D DARFUR 25 DINARS, CAMEL, AU-UNC $4.50

Item DAR-50D DARFUR 50 DINARS, HARTEBEEST, SCALLOPPED EDGE AU-UNC $6.00

Item DAR-100D DARFUR 100 DINARS, LEOPARD, SQUARE, UNC. $6.50

Item DAR-250D DARFUR 250 DINARS, ELEPHANT, 8-SIDED, UNC. $7.50

Item DAR-500D DARFUR 500 DINARS, CROCODILE, BI-METALLIC, UNC. $9.00

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ALSO SEE:
COINS OF AMERICAN INDIAN NATIONS

COINS OF WESTEROS - GAME OF THRONES

ARUCANIA-PATAGONIA COINS

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