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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:
Click HereCOINS OF AMERICAN INDIAN NATIONS

Click HereCOINS OF WESTEROS - GAME OF THRONES

NEWELEPHANT ON SQUARE COIN OF BAROTSELAND

Barotseland 7500 Kwapu 2024 coin depicts elephantBarotseland is a region encompassing parts of Zambia, eastern Namibia and Angola and Katanga province of the Democratic Republic of Congo.  In the 19th century the king of Barotseland signed treaties, first with the British South African Company and later with the British government that assured that the kingdom would retain much of its traditional authority and come under the military protection of the British in exchange for giving the British mining concessions.  The British later included Barotseland as part of Northern Rhodesia.  When Northern Rhodesia became the independent nation of Zambia a new treaty was signed giving Barotseland authority to run local government, courts, local taxation, game preservation and the supply of beer while Zambia controlled external affairs.  Over the next few years Zambia reneged on the agreement and brought Barotseland under the direct control of the Zambian government.  Formal calls for an independent Barotseland started in 2012.  Currently there are three groups claiming to represent Barotseland with fighting between the three groups as well as against Zambia.  This unofficial 2024 Barotseland 7500 Kwapu coin depicts an elephant on one side and the Barotseland arms on the other.  The 39mm silver-plated Proof coin has a mintage of 125 pieces. 
Item BAROTSELAND BAROTSELAND 7500 KWPU 2024 PROOF $24.00



NEW WOLF WOMAN ON ILE DE SEIN COIN

Ile de Sein 500 Libres 2024 depicts wolf, woman and Gallic roosterIle de Sein is a flat, treeless, island 5 miles (8km.) off the coast of France.  It is part of a dangerous line zone 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.
Item SEIN ILE DE SEIN 500 LIBRES 2024 PROOF $24.00


NEWJAGUARS ON REPUBLIC OF TULE COIN

Republic of Tule 10 Balboas 2024 coin depicts JaguarThe 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.
Item TULE REPUBLIC OF TULE 10 BALBOAS 2024 PROOF $24.00



NEWSAILING SHIP ON SQUARE COIN OF SALA Y GOMEZ

Sala Y Gomez Islands 2000 Pesos 2023 coin depicting sailing shipA 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.
Item SALA SALA Y GOMEZ 2000 PESOS 2023 PROOF $24.00



NEWSAILBOAT ON ODD-SHAPED COIN OF ISLAS DESVENTURADAS

Islas Desventuradas 5000 Pesos 2023 coin depicts sailboatThe 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.
Item DESVENTURADAS DESVENTURADAS 5000 PESOS 2023 PROOF $24.00




NEWFISHERMAN ON MIGINGO COIN

Migingo 1500 Shillings 2024 coin depicts fishermanMigingo 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.
Item MIGINGO MIGINGO 1500 SHILLINGS 2024 PROOF $24.00



NEWCOIN OF ISOLATED LO MUSTANG

Lo Mustang 750 Rupees 2024The Kingdom of Lo Mustang (upper Mustang) is an isolated region of Nepal. It was an independent nation from 1380 until 1795.  From the 15th to the 17th century, its strategic location granted Mustang control over the trade between the Himalayas and India.  In 1795 it became a dependency of Nepal, however it maintained its own king until Nepal became a republic in 2008.  Due to its isolation is one of the most preserved regions of the world. The first western visitor did not arrive until 1951 and foreign visitors were forbidden until 1992.  Even today tourism is strictly limited and regulated.  This unofficial 2024 dated 750 Rupees of Lo Mustang depicts a mythical Snow Lion on the obverse.  The reverse has the Tibetan " mantra "om mani padme hum" which translates as "praise to the jewel in the lotus" which refers to the spiritual jewel of Buddhism. The 39mm, six-sided silver-plated brass Proof coin has a mintage of only 120 pieces.
Item MUSTANG LO MUSTANG 750 RUPEES 2024 PROOF $24.00



NEWGECKO AND SHIP ON AGALEGA COIN

Agalega 500 Rupees 2023 coin depicts gecko and sailing shipAgalega 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.
Item AGALEGA AGALEGA 500 RUPEES 2023 PROOF $24.00



NEWDRILL ON AMBAZONIA COIN

Ambazonia 5 Ambo 2023 coin depicts drillAmbazonia 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. Guerilla 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.
Item AMBAZONIA AMBAZONIA 5 AMBO 2023 PROOF $24.00



NEWGREEN SEA TURTLE ON BASS ISLANDS COIN

Bass Islands 750 Francs 2023 coin depicts Green Sea TurtleThe 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.
Item BASS BASS ISLANDS 750 FRANCS 2023 PROOF $24.00



NEWANTS ON KABYLIA COIN

Kabylia 25 Dinars 2023 coin depicts antsKabylia 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.
Item KABYLIA KABYLIA 25 DINARS 2023 PROOF $24.00



NEWDOUBLE DENOMINATED KHERSON COIN DEPICTS BATTLE TANKS

Kherson 250 Rubles / 100 Hryvnia 2024 coin depicts Russian and German tanksThe Kherson Oblast (Region) is located in southern Ukraine, just north of Crimea.  The Oblast was created by Stalin in 1944 when the Soviet Information Bureau announced the liberation of the Kherson, calling the city a regional center, which it was not. Rather than let the report be considered disinformation, Stalin ordered the creation of the Kherson Oblast.  Much of the oblast has been under Russian military occupation since the 2022 Russian invasion of Ukraine.  On September 29, 2022 Russia recognized Kherson as an independent state, and on September 30, annexed it to Russia.  Ukraine forces took control of the city of Kherson in November 2023, though most of the oblast is still under Russian control.  One side of the 2024 dated coin is denominated 250 Rubles and depicts a Russian T-90M main battle tank and the Russian coat of arms.  The other side is denominated 100 Hryvnia and depicts the German 2A5 main battle tank used by the Ukrainians and the Kherson Oblast coat of arms.  The six-sided, silver-plated brass Proof coin has a mintage of only 125 pieces.
Item KHERSON KHERSON 250 RUBLES / 100 HRYVNIA 2024 PROOF $24.00



NEWCAMEL ON SQUARE COIN OF THE REPUBLIC OF UYGHURISTAN

Uyghuristan 50 Pul 2023 depicts camelA Bactrian Camel is featured on this square 50 Pul coin of Uyghuristan. The obverse features the Uhghur Republic coat of arms.  Uyghuristan, also known as East Turkestan is an unrecognized, self-declared republic in north-western China.   The Ughurs are mostly Muslim, Turkic-speaking ethnic group that has long resisted assimilation into Chinese culture. China took the region from the Mongols in 1755.  Uyghurs gained independence briefly in the 1930's and again from 1944 until 1949, before being reincorporated into China.  In recent years China has sent over a million Ughurs into "re-education" camps or forced labor.  This unofficial, square 39mm, silver-plated Proof coin of Uyghuristan has a mintage of just 125 pieces.
Item UYGHUR UYGHURISTAN 50 PUL 2023 PROOF $24.00




OIL ROCKS COIN DEPICTS UNIQUE "FLYING SHIP"

Oil Rocks (Neft Dashlari) 500 Manat 2023 depicts Lun EkranoplanOil 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. 
Item NEFT OIL ROCKS (NEFT DASHLARI) 500 MANAT 2023 PROOF $24.00



SENTOSA COIN DEPICTS CONCORDE

Sentosa 50 Dollars 2023 coin depicts ConcordeSentosa, 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.
Item SENTOSA SENTOSA 50 DOLLARS 2023 PROOF $24.00



RHINOS FROM REHOBOTH

Rehoboth 250 Dollars 2023 coin depicts RhinosRhinoceros 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.
Item REHBOTH REHBOTH 250 DOLLARS 2023 PROOF $24.00


KINGDOM OF KABUTO COIN FEATURES BISON

Kingdom of Kabuto 7 Buto 2023 coin depicts European BisonThe 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.
Item KABUTO KINGDOM OF KABUTO 7 BUTO 2023 PROOF $24.00



GRASSHOPPER ON COIN OF LAJTABANSAG

Lajtabansag 10,000 Korona 2023 coin depicts grasshopperLajtabansag 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.
Item LAJTABANSAG LAJTABANSAG 10,000 KORONA 2023 PROOF $24.00



CHOCOLATE FROG ON REPUBLIC OF WEST PAPUA COIN

Republic of West Papua 40 Basan 2023 coin depicts Chocolate FrogThe 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.
Item W.PAPUA REPUBLIC OF WEST PAPUA 40 BASAN 2023 PROOF $24.00


THE FREE REPUBLIC OF NIAS COIN FEATURES SAILING SHIP

Free Republic of Nias 20 Mark 2023The 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.
Item NIAS FREE REPUBLIC OF NIAS 20 MARK 2023 PROOF $24.00



GAZA COIN FEATURES PALESTINIAN WITH ASSAULT WEAPON

Gaza Strip 2019 5 Pounds coinA 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.
Item GAZA GAZA STRIP 5 POUNDS 2019 PROOF $24.00

Also see:

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

Click HereBRITISH PALESTINE 1 MIL COINS




ORANGE FREE STATE HONORS J.R.R. TOLKIEN

Orange Free State 100 Rand 2022 TolkienOrange Free State 500 Rand 2022 Lord of the Rings
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.   These unofficial 2022 dated coins of Orange Free State were struck to commemorate the 130th anniversary of his birth and the 85th anniversary of the first publishing of The Hobbit.  The obverse of the 100 Rand features his portrait and signature and the Orange Free State coat of arms.  The reverse depicts Bard the Bowman and Bilbo the Hobbit.  The six-sided silver-plated Proof coin is 39mm and has a mintage of 145 pieces.   The eight-sided 500 Rand features Sauron, cave troll, Azog the defiler and a multi-colored Eye of Sauron on the obverse.  The reverse includes multi-color images of Frodo Baggins, the wizard Gandolf and the Eye of Sauron.  Gimli, the dwarf warrior is in the background.  The 38mm silver-plated coin has a mintage of 150 pieces.
Item ORANGE-100R ORANGE FREE STATE 100 RAND 2022 TOLKIEN PROOF $22.00
Item ORANGE-500R ORANGE FREE STATE 500 RAND 2022 LORD OF THE RINGS PROOF $25.00



COIN OF MIDDLE EARTH - THE MOURIA AXE OF DURIN

Mouria copper Axe of DurinThis 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



REPUBLIC OF SOUTH MOLUCCAS DEPICTS CASSOWARY

South Moluccas 5000 Rupiah 2023The 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.
Item MALUKU SOUTH MOLUCCAS 5000 RUPIAH 2023 PROOF $22.00



RABBIT ON COIN OF NORTHERN EPIRUS

Northern Epirus 10 Drachmas 2003Autonomous 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.
Item EPIRUS NORTHERN EPIRUS 10 DRACHMAS 2023 PROOF $22.00



RAILROAD HONORED ON GRAUBUNDEN COIN

Graubunden 10 Francs 2023The 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. 
Item GRAUBUNDEN GRAUBUNDEN 10 FRANCS 2023 PROOF $22.00




GOLDBACK NOTES

1 Goldback Aurum gold notes for South Dakota, Wyoming, New Hampshire, Nevada and Utah
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 19th century style designs.  In 2023 South Dakota became the fifth state to have a Goldback note. The 2023 South Dakota 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.   Also available are the 2023 issues from Wyoming, New Hampshire, Utah and Nevada  and a few prior year issues.  The designs for each state are unchanged year to year.
Item SD-1GOLD23 SOUTH DAKOTA 1 GOLDBACK NOTE 2023 UNC. $7.00
Item WY-1GOLD23 WYOMING 1 GOLDBACK NOTE 2023 UNC. OUT
Item NH-1GOLD23 NEW HAMPSHSIRE 1 GOLDBACK NOTE 2023 UNC. $7.00
Item NV-1GOLD23 NEVADA 1 GOLDBACK NOTE 2023 UNC. $7.00
Item UT-1GOLD23 UTAH 1 GOLDBACK NOTE, 2023 UNC. $7.00



SAILING SHIP ON ROCKALL COIN   Restocked

Rockall 5 Pounds 2022Rockall is an inhabitable granite islet in the North Atlantic Ocean. The first recorded landing on Rockwell was done by the crew of the HMS Endymion in 1810 or 1811.  It was ignored until 1955 when the United Kingdom claimed it due to potential oil deposits and fishing rights. That was the last expansion of the British Empire.  The obverse of the unofficial Rockall 5 Pound coin includes the British coat of arms, the cypher of King Charles III, a seated lion, and portions of the Union Jack.  The reverse features the HMS Endymion under sail with Rockall in the background.  The ship, launched in 1797, was the fastest sailing ship in the Royal Navy.  It took part the French Revolutionary Wars, the Napoleonic Wars, War of 1812, the First Opium War against China and operations against privateers.  She was finally broken up in 1868. The 9-sided, silver-plated Proof coin has a mintage of just 140 pieces.
Item ROCKALL ROCKALL 5 POUNDS 2022 PROOF $22.00




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MODERN COINS OF ANCIENT REALMS

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.


Byzantium 1/2 Follis 2023BYZANTIUM was the eastern portion of the Roman Empire.  After Rome fell in 476AD, however the eastern portion of the Roman Empire with its capital in Constantinople continued for almost another 1000 years, before falling to the Ottomans in 1453.  This 2023 Byzantium 1/2 Follis features the Coat of Arms on the obverse and Zatrikion, also known as Byzantine Chess on the reverse.  The nine-sided, 39mm coin has a mintage of only 150 pieces.
Item BYZANTIUM BYZANTIUM 1/2 FOLLIS 2023 PROOF $22.00





Persian 10,000 Rials 2022 depicts ancient Persian warriorPERSIA is the ancient name for what is now Iran.  The First Persian Empire, also known as the Achaemenid Empire, was founded by Cyrus the Great in 550BC.  It eventually stretched from Egypt to the Indus River. It fell to Alexander the Great in 330BC.  In the middle of the second century BC the Parthians became the main power in what is now Iran. The Parthians were succeeded by the Sasanian Empire in 224AD, which lasted until the Muslim conquest of Persia in 651AD.  This 2022 Persian 10,000 Rials depicts an ancient Persian warrior and the emblem of the Islamic Republic of Iran on one side. The other side the crowned Persian Lion used by the Shahs of Iran until they were overthrown by the Islamic Republic in 1979.  The six-sided, 39mm coin has a mintage of only 145 pieces.
Item PERSIA PERSIA 10,000 RIALS 2022 PROOF $22.00



Sparta Tetradrachm 2023 depicts Spartan warrior & ArtimisSPARTA became the prominent military power in Greece by 650BC.  Spartan government and society focused on maximizing military proficiency at all costs. It was the leading force during the Greco-Persian Wars between 499BC and 449BC.  It defeated its principal enemy, Athens, in the Peloponnesian War (431–404 BC).  It was defeated by Thebes in the Battle of Leuctra in 371BC and was forced into the Achaean League in 192 BC.  The obverse of this 2023 Tetradrachm of Sparta features Artemis, the Greek goddess of wild animals and hunting, with a deer and holding a bow. The reverse depicts a Spartan warrior in front of a Greek temple.  The six-sided, 39mm has a mintage of just 120.
Item SPARTA SPARTA TETRADRACHM 2023 PROOF $24.00


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SAILING SHIPS ON COINS OF PANTELLERIA AND PELAGIE ISLANDS

Pantelleria 500 Lire 2023 coin depicts sailing shipPelagie Islands 500 Lire 2023 coin depicts sailing ship and Loggerhead turtle
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. 
Item PANTELLERIA PANTELLERIA 500 LIRE 2023 PROOF $22.00
Item PELAGIE PELAGIE ISLANDS 500 LIRE 2023 PROOF $22.00



2023 HANKO COIN FEATURES POLIKARPOV I-15 BI-PLANE

Hanko 50 Markka 2023 pictues Polikarpov I-15 Bi-planeA 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.
Item HANKO HANKO 50 MARKKA 2023 PROOF $22.00



PIGS ON BIG MAJOR CAY COIN

Big Major Cay 2023 20 Dollar coin depicts pigsBig 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.
Item CAY BIG MAJOR CAY 20 DOLLARS 2023 PROOF $22.00



TORY ISLAND COIN FEATURES RAVEN

Tory Island (Oileán Thoraigh) 10 Pounds 2023 coinTory 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.
Item TORY TORY ISLAND 10 POUNDS 2023 PROOF $22.00




2023 COCOS (KEELING) COIN SET FEATURES BIRDS & SEA LIFE

Cocos (Keeling) 2023 6 coin set: 1 - 100 Rupees, features birds and sea lifeCommon obverse design on Cocos (Keeling) 2023 coins
The Cocos (Keeling) Islands, also known as the Keeling-Cocos Islands are a group of 27 small islands in the middle of the Indian Ocean.  It was first settled in the 1820's by English adventurer Alexander Hare, his Malay harem, Scottish trader Capt. John Clunies Ross and his family.  After initial difficulties, Hare moved on leaving the Ross family in possession of the Islands.  They brought in Malay laborers, cleared almost all native vegetation and planted Coconut palms.  Ross made himself and his descendants King of the Cocos.  In 1978 Australia purchased the islands from the family.  This 2023 dated set of six copper-nickel coins for the Cocos (Keeling) Islands features native fish and birds.  The 100 Rupees has a Great White Shark. A wedge-tailed shearwater bird is on the 50 Rupees.  A Black-crowned night heron is on the 10 Rupees. An Ornate Butterflyfish is on the 5 Rupees. A Lionfish is on the 2 Rupees and a Yellow-bellied sea snake on the 1 Rupee.   The obverse of all the coins depict the emblem of the Cocos (Keeling) Islands and the legend "Bukan Wang Tunai", which translates as "No Cash Value".
Item KEELING23 KEELING (COCOS) 6 COIN SET 1-100 RUPEES 2023 UNC. $29.75



BERDOO 66 CENTS - SAN BERNARDINO COUNTY SECESSION COIN

BERDOO (San Bernardino County Secession) 66 Cents 2023In November 2022 San Bernardino County voted to secede from the State of California.  San Bernardino, often called the "Inland Empire", is the largest county in California.  Like many regions of California, they were fed up with the liberal big city politicians that control California.  To mark the event the Small Forest Mint issued a copper 66 Cent coin for Berdoo.  Berdoo is what locals call San Bernardino. The historic Route 66 runs through the county, hence the denomination of 66 cents. The denomination is within an arrowhead shaped like the Arrowhead Geological Monument at Arrowhead Springs.  The reverse depicts the date and a Joshua Tree which is common in desert areas of the county, which is home to Joshua Tree National Park.  The Highway Gothic font was used on old highway signs.  The hand-struck coins are Uncirculated but may have minor dark areas.  Mintage is limited to a maximum of 200 pieces or when the dies wear out, whichever comes first.
Item BERDOO BERDOO 66 CENTS 2023 UNC. $7.00



RARE KINGDOM OF HAWAII SURFING COMPETITION COIN

Hawaiian Kingdom silver 25 Dala coin, 2023 Eddie Aikua Big Wave Surfing CompetitionThe Kingdom of Hawaii, a modern Hawaiian sovereignty movement, commemorated the 2023 Eddie Aikau Big Wave Invitational Surfing competition on this ultra-low mintage sterling silver 25 Dala coin.  It has a mintage of only 46 pieces!  As a lifeguard Eddie Aikau saved over 500 lives, sometimes braving 30-foot waves.  He died trying to rescue his crewmates in an attempt to reenact a canoe voyage from Hawaii to Polynesia.  The surfing competition was started in 1984 in his honor.  It is held at Waimea Bay on the north shore of Oahu, Hawaii, where Eddie was a lifeguard.  Because the competition is held only when ocean swells reach a minimum of 20 feet, (6.1m) it has been held just 10 times since its inception.   During the 2023 competition surfers braved waves 30 to 50 feet (9.1 to 15.2m) in height.  The coin depicts an incused image of a Hawaiian Koa warrior on the obverse and a surfer on the reverse.  .
Item HAWAII-23 HAWAII SILVER 25 DALA 2023 EDDIE AIKAU SURFING COMPETITION UNC. $45.00



ODD SHAPED SAINT-CASTIN COIN FEATURES FLYING SQUIRRELS

Saint-Castin 100 Piastres 2022 coin depicting flying squirrelsSaint-Castin is a self-declared micronation that claims several enclaves within the Province of Quebec.  It is named after Jean-Vincent d'Abbadie de Saint-Castin, a 17th century French-Canadian military office and an Abenaki chief.  It was founded as a monarchy on June 24, 2014. Since then, it had a republican coup, been annexed by, then seceded from the Federal Republic of St. Charlie, re-established as a republic and in 2020 restored the monarchy.  This odd-shaped 2022 100 Piastres of Saint-Castin depicts the coat of arms on the obverse and two Northern Flying Squirrels (Glaucomys sabrinus) on the reverse.  The 42mm silver-plated Proof coin has a mintage of just 120 pieces.
Item ST.CASTIN SAINT-CASTIN 100 PIASTRES 2022 PROOF $22.00




YAP COIN SET

Yap 7 coin set 1 Penny - 1 Crown 2020The island of Yap is famous for their large stone money, some of which is over 6 feet high and weigh hundreds of pounds.  Even small pieces typically go for thousands of dollars in auctions.  This unofficial 7-coin set for Yap is much more affordable.  The set includes the nickel-zinc 1 Penny, 3 Pence, 6 Pence, Shilling. Florin, brass 1/2 Crown and b-metallic 1 Crown dated 2020. One side depicts native Micronesians while the other depicts items related to Micronesian culture, including a Yap Stone Money on the Florin.   All seven coins are Uncirculated.
Item YAP YAP 7 COIN SET 1 PENNY - 1 CROWN 2020 UNC. $29.75



FRENCH OVERSEAS TERRITORIES SILVER ESSAI (PATTERN) COINS 

Mayotte silver 1/4 Euro Essai 2004   St. Barts 1/4 Euro Essai
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.
Item YT-1/4E MAYOTTE 1/4 EURO 2004 SILVER PATTERN COIN FDC (PROOF) $35.00
Item BART-1/4E ST. BARTHLEMY SILVER 1/4 EURO ESSAI 2004 FDC (PROOF) $29.75


WARRIOR ON COIN OF VARKANA

Varkana 10,000 Rials coin 2022Varkana, 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.
Item VARKANA VARKANA 10,000 RIALS 2022 PROOF $19.95




CELTIC STATE OF SCORDISK

State of Scordisk 5000 Dinara coin 2022The 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.
Item SCORDISK STATE OF SCORDISK 5000 DINARA 2022 PROOF $19.95




MODERN COIN FOR DUBROVNIK REPUBLIC

Dubrovnik Republic 3 Perpera 2022This 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.
Item DUBROVNIK DUBROVNIK REPUBLIC 3 PERPERA 2022 PROOF $19.95



COIN OF FIUME

Fiume 200 Lire 2022Fiume 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.
Item FIUME FIUME 200 LIRE 2022 PROOF $22.00



KNIGHT ON BRITTANY COIN

Brittany 100 Francs 2022Brittany 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.
Item BRITTANY BRITTANY 100 FRANCS 2022 PROOF $22.00



ABYEI COIN DEPICTS AFRICAN WILDLIFE ON MAP OF AFRICA  Restocked

Abyei 500 Francs 2020 depicts African wildlife on map of AfricaAbyei 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.
Item ABYEI ABYEI 500 FRANCS 2020 PROOF $22.00



LEBANESE LOLLAR SATIRE NOTES

Lebanon Lollar satire currency set: 1 to 100 LollarIn May 2022 a Lebanese group called “The Lebanese Transparency Association – No Corruption” released a series of six satire notes protesting the corruption and incompetence of the Lebanese government. The notes are all labeled “The Currency of Corruption” in English and Arabic.   Lebanon used to be called the “Switzerland of the Middle East”.  It was the place to do business in the Middle East and had a lively culture and night life.  Elected officials, more interested in their political party than their country have destroyed the country, which is now near collapse.
Lollar is a term used to described U.S. dollars that were deposited in Lebanese banks but now can only be withdrawn in Lebanese Livres at highly unfavorable rates.  Advertising agency Leo Burnett partnered with acclaimed British artist Tom Young to create the notes. The notes were available at special ATMs in various locations in Beirut.  
The notes are approximately the size of United States currency.  The backs of all the notes depict a modified rendering of the Central Bank building, showing it in ruins and labeled “The Lollar Bank”. 
The 1 Lollar note depicts a rusted train at the Tripoli Mina station.  The once prosperous rail system that linked Lebanon to Europe has been inoperable since 1989 and left to rot, but the government still spends millions to pay the wages of 300 employees of the railway administration department.  The 5 Lollar note protests the fuel cartels.  It depicts the endless queues at gas stations that have blocked streets nationwide since 2021.   The 10 Lollar notes depicts the garbage crisis.   Garbage has been piling up in the streets in Beirut and elsewhere creating an environmental disaster.  The government signed sweetheart contracts with politically connected companies to collect garbage.  Some companies just dumped the garbage into the ocean, others disappeared, those that remained reduced or stopped collection when the government could no longer afford to pay them.  The 20 Lollar depicts a burning cedar forest.  The country spent millions of firefighting equipment, but did not maintain it, so fires rage out of control.  Neighboring countries have stepped in to help the Lebanese army put out fires.  The 50 Lollar note protests power shortages. Despite large government expenditures electricity is only available a few hours a day if at all from the power grid.  Local cartels which obtain fuel under questionable circumstances operate generators selling electricity at exorbitant rates.  The 100 Lollar note depicts the 2020 Beirut port explosion which killed over 200, left over 300,000 homeless and exposed the corruption and incompetence of port officials.   The set of six satire notes are not real money, but are a real protest against of corruption of the Lebanese government. 
Item PM-LOLLAR LEBANON SET OF 6 SATIRE NOTES, 1 - 100 LOLLAR UNC. $5.00
Item PM-LOLLARx10 10 SETS OF THE ABOVE LEBANON SET OF 6 SATIRE NOTES, 1-100 LOLLAR UNC. $25.00

For real Lebanonese currency see:

Click HereLEBANON BANKNOTE & COIN SETS




BOUVET ISLAND COIN FEATURES KILLER WHALES

Bouvet Island 200 Kroner 2021 depicts OrcasBouvet 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.
Item BOUVET BOUVET ISLAND 200 KRONER 2021 PROOF $19.95


THE COLOSSUS OF RHODES

Rhodes 500 Dracmas 2021The 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.
Item RHODES RHODES 500 DRACHMAS 2021 PROOF $19.95



SAVAGE ISLANDS COIN FEATURES BIRDS

Savage Islands (Selvagens) 200 Escudos 2022 coin depictw two Pink Terns and a Madiera LizardThe 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.
Item SAVAGE SAVAGE ISLANDS 200 ESCUDOS 2022 PROOF $19.95



REINDEER ON COIN OF THE REPUBLIC OF KARELIA

Karelia 50 Rubles 2021 coin depicting reindeerThe 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.
Item KARELIA KARELIA 50 RUBLES 2021 PROOF $19.95




WHALE ON RECTANGULAR GALAPAGOS $8 COIN

Galapagos rectangular 8 dollar coin picturing a humpback whaleA 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.
Item GALP-8U GALAPAGOS EIGHT DOLLARS, 2008 Br.X9 UNC. out
Item GALP-8T GALAPAGOS EIGHT DOLLARS, 2008 Br.X9 Heavily tarnished and spotted $7.00


 

NEW HAMPSHIRE, NEVADA & UTAH GOLDBACK NOTES

1 Goldback Aurum gold notes for New Hampshire, Nevada and Utah
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. The 1 Goldback contains 1/1000 troy ounce of gold and measures 66x117mm.  The notes are printed on one side only, with intricate multi-color allegorical 19th century style designs.   The notes of each state have unique designs. The New Hampishire 1 Goldback portrays Gratia (Grace) depicted as native Abenaki woman.  The Nevada 1 Goldback features Caritas (charity).  The Utah 1 Goldback features Prudentia (prudence) with elements of the Indian tribes of that state.
Item NH-GOLD1  NEW HAMPSHSIRE 1 GOLDBACK NOTE (1/1000 troy ounce gold) UNC. $7.50
Item NV-GOLD1 NEVADA 1 GOLDBACK NOTE (1/1000 troy ounce gold) UNC. $7.50
Item UT-GOLD1 UTAH 1 GOLDBACK NOTE, 2020 (1/1000 troy ounce gold) UNC. $7.50
Item GOLDBACK3 ALL 3 OF THE ABOVE GOLDBACK NOTES UNC. $21.00



MODERN COIN FOR ANCIENT NUBIA

Nubia 5 Pounds 2021Nubia is a region along the Nile River spanning from the confluence of the Blue and White Niles in Sudan to the First Cataract in southern Egypt.   In ancient times it was the home of powerful Black kingdoms, some which conquered ancient Egypt and some were conquered by Egypt.  The obverse of this unofficial 2021 Nubian 5 Sudanese Pound coin features the name NUBIA, ancient hieroglyphics and a Nubian emblem.  The reverse depicts ancient Nubian warrior, a Nubian pyramid and the arms of the Bank of Sudan.   The 39mm silver-plated a mintage of only 150 pieces.
Item NUBIA NUBIA 5 POUNDS 2021 PROOF $19.95


SEMINOLE INDIAN ON 2021 FLORIDA 20 DOLLAR COIN

Florida 20 Dollars 2021 depicting Seminole Indian warriorA Seminole warrior holding a rifle and a tomahawk is featured on this six-sided unofficial Florida 20 Dollar coin.  The obverse features the historical Florida coat of arms.  The historical coat of arms includes a steamboat, female Indian, cocoa palm and mountains (mountains in Florida?!)   The 39mm silver-plated Proof coin is dated 2021 and has a mintage of only 140 pieces.
Item FL-20D FLORIDA 20 DOLLARS 2021 PROOF $19.95



OTTAWA INDIAN IN CANOE ON 2021 MICHIGAN 20 DOLLAR COIN

Michigan 20 Dollars 2021 depicting Ottawa IndianThis unofficial odd-shaped 2021 20 Dollar coin of Michigan featuers an Ottawa in a canoe.  The coat of arms of Michigan is on the obverse.  The six-sided coin measures 40mm x 30mm.  The silver plated Proof coin has a mintage of only 140 pieces.  
Item MI-20D MICHIGAN 20 DOLLARS 2021 PROOF $19.95


COINS FROM THE WORLD'S MOST COMPLICATED INTERNATIONAL BORDER

Baarle-Hertzog (Belgium) 250 Francs 2021Baarle-Nassau (Netherlands) 250 Guilders 2021Map of Baarle-Nassau and Baarle-Hertzog
Baarle-Hertog is a Belgian municipality that consists of 16 parcels of land, completely surrounded by the Netherlands.  Baarle-Nassau is a Dutch municipality that includes seven parcels that are in turn surrounded by Baarle-Hertzog, and an eighth parcel surrounded by Belgium.  The complex border results from numerous Medieval treaties, land-swaps and sales between the Lords of Breda and the Dukes of Brabant dating back to the 12th century.  The border was only finally officially defined in 1995. Some buildings straddle both nations. The nationality of a building is determined by the location of its front door.  Building owners have been known to move their front door, when it was advantageous to change nationalities.  Prior to the formation of the European Union this strange border provided opportunities for smuggling.  Today it is a tourist attraction.  Unofficial 2021 dated silver-plated Proof coins were recently issued for these two territories.  The Baarle-Hetzog 250 Franc coin features the arms of Belgium and a Brussels griffon dog.  The Baarle-Nassau 250 Guilder depicts a Netherlands Kooikerhondje.  Only 140 pieces of each were struck.
Item B-HERTZOG BAARLE-HERTZOG 250 FRANCS 2021 PROOF out
Item B-NASSAU BAARLE-NASSAU 250 GUILDERS 2021 PROOF $19.95


CASTLES AND BEETLES OF LIECHTENSTEIN

Liechtenstein unoffical 100 Francs 2021 coin for Valtice CastleLiechtenstein unoffical 100 Francs 2021 coin for Lednice Castle
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.
Item LI-VAITICE LIECHTENSTEIN 100 FRANCS 2021 VALTICE CASTLE - RHINO BEETLE PROOF $22.00
Item LI-LEDNICE LIECHTENSTEIN 100 FRANCS 2021 LEDNICE CASTLE - STAG BEETLE PROOF OUT



PIEGAN BLACKFOOT INDIAN ON MONTANA COIN

Montana 20 Dollar 2020 coin depicts Piegan Blackfoot Indian hunting buffaloA 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:
Click HereINDIANS FEATURED ON 2020 LOW MINTAGE 20 DOLLAR COINS OF ARIZONA, DAKOTA, DELAWARE & WYOMING

CAMERIA COIN FEATURES SNAKE EAGLE

Cameria 500 Leke 2020Cameria (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




INDIANS FEATURED ON LOW MINTAGE STATE 20 DOLLAR COINS

Arizona 20 Dollars 2020 coin depicting American IndiansDakota 20 Dollars 2020 coin depicting American IndiansDelaware 20 Dollars 2020 coin depicting American IndiansWyoming 20 Dollars 2020 coin depicting American Indians
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:
Click HerePIEGAN BLACKFOOT INDIAN ON MONTANA COIN: 20 Dollars 2020

Click HereCOINS OF AMERICAN INDIAN NATIONS


RARE ODD DENOMINATION ARAUCANIA-PATAGONIA COINS AND PATTERNS

Araucania-Patagonia 87 Pesos 2014 error date coin and patterns with error birth dateAraucania-Patagonia 87 Pesos 2014 correct date coin, Nickel-Silver
These 2014 dated Araucania-Patagonia 87 Pesos coins were issued to commemorate the 87 years of the life of the Prince Felipe, who died in 2014.    The reverse bears the inscription in Spanish "To the memory of Prince Felipe / 1921 * 2014".  Unfortunately due to an engraving error, the birth date was wrong on the initial batch of coins  The correct date is 1927 rather than 1921.  Only 25 nickel-silver versions of the coin were struck, along with 15 of the copper Patterns and 15 of the gold plated Patterns with the error date.  The minting was then stopped and a new reverse die ordered.  The corrected version has the dates "1927 *** 2014" and was struck in nickel-silver, copper and gold-plated.  Only 87 of each of the correct versions of the coins were struck. The coins all utilize the same obverse, depicting Prince Felipe.   The Patterns utilize the obverse of Maision de Frappe Fleure de Coin, a private mint in Quebec.  They are all extraordinarily rare pieces that had very limited distribution.
Item AP-87ERR ARAUCANIA-PATAGONIA 87 PESOS 2014 ERROR DATE COIN, MATTE UNC. $75.00
 Item AP-87COP ARAUCANIA-PATAGONIA 87 PESOS 2014 CORRECT DATE, COPPER PROOF $45.00



VITEBSK PEOPLE'S REPUBLIC FEATURES LENIN

Vitebsk People's Republic 20 Rubles 2020 coinVitebsk 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 $19.95





CALIFORNIA REPUBLIC COINS

California Republic 20 Dollars 2020 coins: Bobcat in Yosemite / Minerva / common reverseA 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



KNIGHTS OF MALTA  COIN SET SAINT POPE JOHN PAUL II

 Order of Malta 5 coin set in folder
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:
Click HereBOOK: THE COINS OF THE GRAND MASTERS OF THE ORDER OF MALTA by Robert Morris



MINOTAUR ON 2020 CRETE COIN 

Crete 500 Drachma 2020 five-sided coinIn 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



GOLIATH HERON ON COIN OF DAHLAC

DAHLAC 50 NAFKA 2020 SIX-SIDED COINDahlac 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



ROTUMA COIN FEATURES NATIVE BIRD

Rotuma 50 Pa'atuna 2020 coin depicts Rotuma myzomela birdRotuma 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




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

Transdniestra bi-metallic 100 Rubles picturing Pope John Paul IIThis 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


SCARCE BI-METALLIC COINS OF SAHRAWI   

Saharawi bi-metallic 500 Pesetas Fennec FoxesSaharawi bi-metallic 500 Pesetas Independence commemorativeSaharawi bi-metallic 500 Pesetas 2004 common obverseThe 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

SAHRAWI ARAB DEMOCRATIC REPUBLIC 2010 BI-METALLIC HONORS ARAB CULTURE  Wholesale prices available to dealers

Saharawi 500 Peseta bimetallic coin, 2010This 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




SAIPAN HONORS WORLD WAR II BATTLE

Saipan 5 Dollars 2019 Battle of SaipanSaipan is now part of the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands.  In World War II it was the site of one of the bloodiest and most strategic battles in the Pacific.  Saipan was Japanese territory and one of the last line of defenses before the homeland. An estimated 29,000 Japanese soldiers and 20,000 civilians died trying to defend the island. 3,426 Americans died and 10,364 were wounded. The loss of Saipan was a major blow to Japan.  American B-29 bombers were now within striking range of mainland Japan and the Philippines.  The obverse unofficial 2019 Saipan 5 Dollar coin depicts the emblem of the Commonwealth of Northern Mariana Islands.  The reverse features a Marine in front of a waving American flag and the dates of the Battle of Saipan.   The 40mm eight-sided silver-plated Proof coin has a mintage of only 210 pieces.
Item SAIPAN SAIPAN 5 DOLLARS 2019 PROOF $22.00




MODERN COINS OF KURDISTAN 

Kurdistan 1 Dinar coin 2003, Br.X1.2Kurdistan 10 Dinars 2003

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. 
Item KURD1 KURDISTAN 1 DINAR 2003 Br.X1.2 UNC. $7.50
Item KURD10 KURDISTAN 10 DINARS 2003 FALLOW DEER Br.X2.2 UNC. $10.00




MAUI TRADE DOLLARSWholesale prices available to dealers

Maui 2018 Trade Dollar, Humpback whale and Black Rock Cliff DiverMaui 2017 $2 Trade Dollar, Hawaiian OwlMaui 2016 Trade Dollar - Humpback whaleMaui 2015 Trade Dollar features surfer and dolphinMaui 2014 Trade Dollar features TikiMaui 2004 Trade Dollar features turtle and fishMaui 2003 Trade Dollar features Dolphin and SealMaui 1997 Trade Dollar features 3 whalesMaui 1996 Trade Dollar features Parrot
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



WHALE ON RECTANGULAR GALAPAGOS $8 COIN

Galapagos rectangular 8 dollar coin picturing a humpback whaleA 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.
Item GALP-8U GALAPAGOS EIGHT DOLLARS, 2008 Br.X9 UNC. $19.50



VERY RARE RUSSIAN IMPERIAL UNION ORDER PRESENTATION COINS

Russian Imperial Order Union 1 Ruble 1989 copper-nickelRussian Imperial Order Union Bronze Essai
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



RARE ODD DENOMINATION ARAUCANIA-PATAGONIA0 COINS AND PATTERNS

Araucania-Patagonia 87 Pesos 2014 error date coin and patterns with error birth dateAraucania-Patagonia 87 Pesos 2014 correct date coin, Nickel-Silver
 These 2014 dated Araucania-Patagonia 87 Pesos coins were issued to commemorate the 87 years of the life of the Prince Felipe, who died in 2014.    The reverse bears the inscription in Spanish "To the memory of Prince Felipe / 1921 * 2014".  Unfortunately due to an engraving error, the birth date was wrong on the initial batch of coins  The correct date is 1927 rather than 1921.  Only 25 nickel-silver versions of the coin were struck, along with 15 of the copper Patterns and 15 of the gold plated Patterns with the error date.  The minting was then stopped and a new reverse die ordered.  The corrected version has the dates "1927 *** 2014" and was struck in nickel-silver, copper and gold-plated.  Only 87 of each of the correct versions of the coins were struck. The coins all utilize the same obverse, depicting Prince Felipe.   The Patterns utilize the obverse of Maision de Frappe Fleure de Coin, a private mint in Quebec.  They are all extraordinarily rare pieces that had very limited distribution.
Item AP-87ERR ARAUCANIA-PATAGONIA 87 PESOS 2014 ERROR DATE COIN, MATTE UNC. $75.00
Item AP-PAT87-COP ARAUCANIA-PATAGONIA 87 PESOS 2014 COPPER ERROR DATE PATTERN, MATTE UNC. $80.00
Item AP-PAT87-GOLD ARAUCANIA-PATAGONIA 87 PESOS 2014 GOLD PLATED ERROR DATE PATTERN, MATTE UNC. $85.00
Item AP-87NS ARAUCANIA-PATAGONIA 87 PESOS 2014 CORRECT DATE, NICKEL-SILVER PROOF $40.00
Item AP-87COP ARAUCANIA-PATAGONIA 87 PESOS 2014 CORRECT DATE, COPPER PROOF $45.00
Item AP-87GLD ARAUCANIA-PATAGONIA 87 PESOS 2014 CORRECT DATE, GOLD-PLATED PROOF $50.00




COLUMBUS ON ST. CROIX, VIRGIN ISLANDS DOLLAR  

St. Croix 1 Dollar coin, Christopher Columbus, 2015Christopher 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


CARIB INDIANS ON ST. JOHN, VIRGIN ISLANDS DOLLAR

St. John, (V.I.) 1 Dollar coin Caribs, 2015Saint 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


BI-METALLIC COIN FROM THE STATE OF NUMISMA

Numisma b-metallic 50 Numismaru 2015, ProofThe State of Numisma is a micro-nation created by Russian coin dealer Vladimir Startsev.  Numisma recently issued this 2015 dated bi-metallic 50 Numismaru to commemorate his and his wife’s 50th birthdays.  An outline of their conjoined busts is on the obverse of the coin.  The reverse has a map of the world, the Moscow Mint mintmark and the inscriptions "STATE OF NUMISMA" and  "UNUSUAL AS ORDINARY".  The 27mm coin is Proof and comes in a capsule. Only 200 pieces were struck.
Item NUMISMA NUMISMA 50 NUMISMARU, 2015 PROOF $25.00



COINS OF WIKINGLAND

Wikingland 10 Wiking Mark, Common ObverseWikingland 10 Wiking Mark 1993, Thor's HammerWikingland 10 Wiking Mark Runic Year 2244 (1994), with date Elder Furhark RunicWikingland 10 Wiking Mark (1994), without date Elder Furhark RunicWikingland 10 Wiking Mark Runic Year 2245 (1995) Anglo-Saxon FurhorcWikingland 10 Wiking Mark (1996) Younger Futhark (Danish Furhark
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



SCARCE FANTASY COIN OF HEJAZ 

Hejaz silver 10 Ghirsh or 1/2 Riyal fantasy coin, AH1334, Yr. 8, MeccaThis 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


BERMANIA TICKLE TOKEN

Bermania Tickle TokenBermania is a fantasy kingdom created by coin dealer Allen G. Berman. Its latest numismatic item is the 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, 2014, BU $7.50



2014 CRIMEA COIN SET

Crimean coin set: 5, 10, 25 and 100 Rubles. Includes bi-metallicsback of Crimean 2014 coins
The recent conflict between Ukraine and Russia over control of Crimea goes back many years.  In 1783 Catherine the Great made Crimea part of the Russian Empire.  During the Russian civil war the region declared independence and passed between Bolshevik and White Government forces several times, accompanied by a massive slaughter of civilians.  In 1921 it was made an autonomous republic within Russia.  Greeks, Armenians and Bulgarians living in Crimea were forced to leave.   During World War II the area came under German control and the sizeable Jewish population was annihilated.  After the Soviets regained control the entire population of Crimean Tatars, who had at one time made up a majority of the region, were forcibly deported.  Russian families were settled in Crimea to replace them.  In 1954 Crimea was transferred from Russia to Ukraine.  At the time it made little difference, since both were part of the Soviet Union.   After the breakup of the Soviet Union in 1991 Crimea became part of Ukraine.  Russia found its Black Sea fleet and other military installations now located in independent Ukraine rather on its own soil.  A majority of the population of Crimea is Russian, as most other ethnic groups had been “cleansed” from the area.   In February 2014 pro-Russian forces, supported by Moscow, took control over Crimea. A quickly called referendum was held on March 16, with a vast majority voting to join Russia.  On March 17 the newly created Crimean parliament declared independence from Ukraine, and on the following day, Crimea officially became part of Russia.  The transfer has not been widely recognized.   This unofficial four coin set of Crimea includes the 5, 10, 25 and 100 Rubles.  The 25 and 100 Rubles are bi-metallic.  The designs of the 5 and 25 Rubles feature voting, while the 10 and 100 Rubles depict a fist.  The reverse of the all the coins feature the Arms of Crimea. 
CRIMEA CRIMEA 2014 5, 10, 25 & 100 RUBLES, UNC. $39.75



ANDAMAN AND NICOBAR ISLANDS COIN SET  Wholesale prices available to dealers

Andaman and Nicobar Islands 2011 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





2011 FAROE ISLANDS COINS Wholesale prices available to dealers

Faeroe Islands 25 Oyru - 50 Kronur 2011, depecting native fish, birds and animals.Obverse of the 2011 Faeroe Island coins depicts the islands coat-of-arms
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




2012 MICRONESIA COIN SET FEATURES WILDLIFE & BI-METALLICS Wholesale prices available to dealers

Micronesia coin set
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

WHERE IS PURPLE SHAFTIEULAND?

Set of 5 aluminum coins from 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


FRENCH TERRITORIAL COINS FOR ANTARCTICA Reduced Price

French Territorial coins for Antartica Posessions: Adelie Land, Crozet Island, French Antarctic, Kerguelen Isnand, Amstardam & St. Paul Islands.Common reverses for 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. $12.00
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

COINS OF BASSAS DA INDIA FEATURES FRENCH SAILING SHIPS

Bassas da India 100 Franc coin, 2012 pictures sailing ship La CouronneBassas da India 200 Francs 2012 pictures sailing ship Le Soleil Royal (1669)Bassas da India 500 Francs 2012 depicts sailing shiip Formidable
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


FIRST COINS FROM CLIPPERTON ISLAND INCLUDES BIMETALLICS 

Clipperton Island 100 Francs 2011Clipperton Island bimetal 200 Francs 2011Clipperton Island bimetel 500 Franc coin
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


BI-METALLIC 2011 COINS FROM CABINDA AND REDONDA Price reducedWholesale prices available to dealers

Cabinda bi-metallic 3 Reis 2011Redonda bi-metallic 2 Dollars 2011
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


THE EMPIRE OF ATLANTIUM Wholesale prices available to dealers

Atlantium 10 SoldiAtlantium 30 Soldi (2011)
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


BI-METALLIC EURO COIN FROM THE FLEMISH REPUBLIC 

Flanders Euro coinFor 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


TRI-METALLIC COINS OF THE ARCTIC TERRITORIES FEATURE POLAR BEAR 

Artic Territories 10 Dollars 2011 Polar BearArtic Territories 10 Dollars 2011 trimetallic coin
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


TRI-METALLIC COIN OF MARIE BYRD LAND HONORS POPE JOHN PAUL II Wholesale prices available to dealers

10 Dollar coin of Marie Byrd Land commemorates beatification of Pope John Paul IIBecause 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



TRIBAL COINS OF GHANA 

Edoula Tribe 1 Edo coinNaajeri Tribe 1 Eche coin 2008
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


FIRST MODERN COINS OF DARFUR FEATURE AFRICAN WILDLIFE

Darfur 2008 seven coin set featurs African wildlifeCommon obverse of Darfur 2008 coin set
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


ALSO SEE:
Click HereCOINS OF AMERICAN INDIAN NATIONS

Click HereCOINS OF WESTEROS - GAME OF THRONES

Click HereARUCANIA-PATAGONIA COINS




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