Happy New Year 2012

Happy New Year 2012 to all my readers. In a few hours time, it will be the end of 2011 and a start of a new year 2012 in Malaysia. Everyone are happily wishing happy New Year in Facebook and Twitter. 2011 has been great to me with a lot of personal achievement. This blog has achieve 1 million view since September 2011. Again, thank you to all my readers. I will try to give more new information for 2012. The only problem for me is most of the times, they're no broadband connection in the areas that I go. I think many Malaysian also having the same problem, especially if you go to a lot of places in Malaysia.

Malaysia will be using new currency for 2012. New coins has been announced on July and new banknotes has been announced recently in December. Both the new currency come with commemorative collections for collector to collect. The premier set of 4th series Malaysia banknotes has been a very hot item in the market right now. Bank Negara Malaysia (BNM) has been selling the premier set (A complete collection of RM1, RM5, RM10, RM20, RM50 and RM100 with the same serial number) for RM300. The price for the premier set in local market has gone up to RM500 per set. Some seller in Sabah sell them for RM600. Many none collector has been asking me why we collector take the trouble to get the commemorative banknotes since it will be in circulation in 2012. Many friends and families that I meet are very interested with the new RM20 notes. Many of them don't know that RM20 notes has been used in Malaysia before.

What is your new year 2012 resolution? It will be a year of the dragon for 2012 in Chinese almanac. I think most collector will like to add a new coins or banknotes in their collection, like always. Again for 2012, I don't target for my collection but my personal life. I had been rarely doing a coin hunting around Malaysia for 2011 since almost all my dealers are rising their item price tremendously. Its more cheaper to buy a collection via Facebook then buying them on the street nowadays. So what is your new year resolution? Care to share?

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Duit Baru Malaysia

Gambar duit baru Malaysia, "Malaysia new money pictures".

In here, I am sharing with everyone, Malaysia new currency design 2012. You can find information and specifications of Malaysia new banknotes including pictures in my blog. In my opinion, the new Malaysia banknotes, "Distinctively Malaysia" are the most beautiful design for Malaysia banknotes. I hope Bank Negara Malaysia will try to submit an application to join IBNS banknote of the year. Everyone (especially collectors) in Malaysia has been waiting for the new banknotes since the announcement this year. Many Malaysian has been seen line up at all BNM branches to buy the commemorative banknotes since Thursday. You cannot buy them online since BNM don't have any online shop.

Picture by Sinar Harian: Malaysia new banknote

RM100 banknote-Natural Wonders

RM50 banknote-Agriculture and Technology

RM20 banknote-Marine Life

RM10 banknote-Flora

RM5 polymer banknote-Widlife

RM1 polymer banknote-Traditional Sport

For complete information of the banknote, you can read here; Malaysia 4th series banknotes
You can also watch a video of the banknotes here; New Malaysia banknotes video.
Press release by BNM for the new commemorative banknote here; Malaysia new banknote 2012.

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Malaysia 4th series banknotes

Malaysia 4th series banknotes has been launched by Malaysia Prime Minister, YAB Dato' Sri Mohd Najib Tun Haji Abdul Razak at Sasana Kijang on 28 December 2011. The commemorative banknotes are sold at all BNM branches and will only available for circulation in the second half of 2012. The latest series of Malaysian banknotes draws its inspiration from elements which distinctively define the country's diverse culture, heritage and nature. Themed 'Distinctively Malaysia', the fourth series of Malaysian banknotes features traditional expressions in the art and craft, natural wonders, flora and fauna, economy and tradition.

On the obverse side, all banknote denominations in the new series retain the portrait of the first Seri Paduka Baginda Yang di-Pertuan Agong, Tuanku Abdul Rahman ibni Tuanku Muhammad, the national flower Rosa-sinensis hibiscus (known locally as the 'Bunga Raya') and patterns of traditional woven fabric - the 'songket'.

RM100 banknote-Natural Wonders

The magnificent beauty of Malaysia's two prominent natural wonders, declared 'World Heritage Sites' by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) are portrayed on the RM100 banknote.

These are the Kinabalu Park in Sabah, home to the majestic Mount Kinabalu (the highest mountain in Southeast Asia) and the spectacular limestone pinnacle rock formations of Gunung Api valley, found within the Mulu National Park in Sarawak. Together, they represent the many natural wonders of Malaysia that provides visitors a unique experience.

Technical Specifications:
Denomination: RM100
Substrate: Paper
Size: 150mm X 69mm
Predominant Colour: Purple

RM50 banknote-Agriculture and Technology

Oil palm and biotechnology are featured on the RM50 banknote as Malaysia's thriving economy icons. Oil palm has become the country's most valuable agricultural crop as Malaysia is one of the largest producer and exporter of palm oil in the world.

Biotechnology continues to drive this commodity up the value chain, supporting the nation's economic transformation towards higher value-added activities in the agriculture, manufacturing and services sectors of the economy. Crude palm oil is also used as the underlying commodity to facilitate Islamic financing.

Technical Specifications:
Denomination: RM50
Substrate: Paper
Size: 145mm X 69mm
Predominant Colour: Green-blue

RM20 banknote-Marine Life

As ambassadors of the rich and colourful marine life found in our tropical waters, two of the most well-known species of sea turtles endemic to Malaysian waters are on the new RM20 banknote - the Hawksbill Turtle (Eretmochelys imbricata) and Leatherback Turtle (Dermochelys coriacea).

The Hawksbill is easily identified by its curved beak and scaly shell while the Leatherback has a leathery skin and seven ridges on its shell. These gentle turtles are a reminder that their existence rests in the delicate balance of human activity and marine life conservation.

Technical Specifications:
Denomination: RM20
Substrate: Paper
Size: 145mm X 65mm
Predominant Colour: Orange

RM10 banknote-Flora

Malaysia's lush tropical jungle, which is one of the world's oldest living rainforest, is home to a spectacular variety of flowering plants. Most iconic amongst them is the Rafflesia, the world's largest flower.

The Rafflesia Azlanii species featured on the new RM10 banknote is indigenous to Peninsular Malaysia and was first discovered in the Royal Belum Forest Reserve of the state of Perak in 2003. To commemorate its discovery, this majestic flower was named after the Sultan of Perak, Sultan Azlan Muhibbuddin Shah ibni Almarhum Sultan Yusuff Izzuddin Shah Ghafarullahu-Lah.

Technical Specifications:
Denomination: RM10
Substrate: Paper
Size: 140mm X 65mm
Predominant Colour: Red

RM5 polymer banknote-Widlife

Featured on the new RM5 polymer banknote is the Rhinoceros Hornbill (Buceros rhinoceros), one of the largest and most magnificent hornbill species in the world.

Found in low densities throughout various rainforests in the country, this beautiful, broad-winged and long-tailed forest bird plays an important role in the customs and traditional ceremonies in Sarawak which is known as 'Bumi Kenyalang' or 'Land of Hornbills'. Hornbill is also seen as a symbol of strength and courage by the native communities of Sarawak.

Technical Specifications:
Denomination: RM5
Substrate: Paper
Size: 135mm X 65mm
Predominant Colour: Green

RM1 polymer banknote-Traditional Sport

Kite-flying is a popular traditional sport in Malaysia especially in Kelantan and Terengganu. Kite-flying is also traditionally a celebration of a good harvest which brings together the local communities in these states.

Amongst the best-known and most iconic Malaysian kites is the 'Wau Bulan' or Moon Kite which is featured on the new RM1. The Wau Bulan, which is hand crafted from bamboo and paper, is also a popular decorative item that adorns the walls of Malaysian homes.

Technical Specifications:
Denomination: RM5
Substrate: Paper
Size: 120mm X 65mm
Predominant Colour: Blue

You can also watch a video of the banknotes here; New Malaysia banknotes video.
Press release by BNM for the new commemorative banknote here; Malaysia new banknote 2012.

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New Malaysia Banknote video

Here are new Malaysia banknotes video produced by Bank Negara Malaysia (BNM) via youtube title: New series of Malaysian banknotes revealed: Distinctively Malaysia. Thank you to BNM for a beautiful video presentation of Malaysia new currency. The new series draws its inspiration from the distinctive features of Malaysia, incorporating elements of the country's natural treasures, culture and heritage. Themed 'Distinctively Malaysia', the banknotes features traditional expressions in the art and craft, natural wonders, flora and fauna and the economy. The banknotes issued are in the denominations of RM1, RM5, RM10, RM20 and RM100. 

Malaysia Prime Minister has launched the new banknotes since Wednesday. Yesterday, all BNM branches are full of people who want to buy the new banknotes commemorative. BNM will keep on selling the commemorative banknotes if any available for buying. You can read more about it in my earlier post; Malaysia new banknotes 2012

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Malaysia new banknotes 2012

Malaysia new banknotes for 2012 has been released by Bank Negara Malaysia (BNM) since yesterday. The new notes launched by the Prime Minister of Malaysia, YAB Dato' Sri Mohd Najib Tun Haji Abdul Razak at Sasana Kijang. The new currency series comprises newly designed banknotes and coins. The banknotes issued are in the denominations of RM1, RM5, RM10, RM20 and RM100 and will be available for circulation in the second half of 2012. The RM50 denomination banknote for the new currency series is already in circulation. For this new series, polymer substrate is used to make the RM1 and RM5 banknotes.

Picture by Sinar Harian: Malaysia new banknote

The new series of banknotes incorporated enhanced security features in line with the latest advancements in banknote technology. The security features for the new banknotes include shadow image, clear window, watermark portrait with pixel and highlighted numerals, colour shifting security thread, micro lens thread, perfect see-through register, coloured glossy patch for public recognition. Other features include tactile identification which enables the visually impaired to identify and distinguish the different denominations. 

Bank Negara Malaysia is issuing commemorative banknotes to mark the introduction of the new currency series. Three types of commemorative banknote collections will be offered for sale as follows: 

• A collection of two banknotes (RM1 and RM5 denomination) - 500,000 sets priced at RM15.00 each. 
• A collection of a single banknote (RM20 denomination) - 500,000 sets priced at RM30.00 each. 
• A collection of six banknotes (RM1, RM5, RM10, RM20, RM50 and RM100 denominations) - 50,000 sets priced at RM300.00 each. For each set of this collection, all the banknote denominations will carry the same serial number. 

The commemorative banknotes are available for sale from 22 December 2011 at Bank Negara Malaysia's headquarters (BNMLINK) and its branches located in Pulau Pinang, Johor Bahru, Kuala Terengganu, Kuching and Kota Kinabalu.

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Great Orchestra of Christmas Charity Coin

Mint of Poland with National Bank of Poland has launched a 20 Years of The Great Orchestra of Christmas Charity coins in 925 Silver and Nordic Gold. I like the heart shaped silver coins, an unusual coins design. The Great Orchestra of Christmas Charity (GOCC, Polish Wielka Orkiestra Świątecznej Pomocy, WOŚP) is one of the biggest, non-governmental, non-profit, charity organizations in Poland. When anyone gives GOCC volunteers any amount of money, they gets a red heart sticker in return. 

On the reverse, the coin design includes a 20th years anniversary text with a tree and heart flowers. The reverse show a piano keyboard cascading up and down the left side of the coin along with the emblem of Poland, the eagle and the coin’s face value of 10 Zlotych. 

Technical Specifications: 

Alloy: Ag 925 (sterling silver) 

Weigh: 14.1 grams 

Dimensions: 28/30 mm 

Mintage: 60,000 pieces 

Designer: Urszula Walerzak 

The silver coins will go on sale from the 1st January 2012 on a bidding basis, you can read more at http://wosp.org.pl/

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Austria €5 Society of Friends of Music coins

Yesterday, The Austrian Mint has released their first coin of 2012, 2012 Austria €5 Issue The Society of Friends of Music in Vienna. The coin celebrates 200 years of the “Society of Music Friends, in Vienna”. The coin will be available in 2 metals and 2 versions. The 300,000 copper versions will be uncirculated coins that are only available through the Austrian banking system. The 50,000 special uncirculated versions will be available from the traditional outlets for Austrian commemorative coins. The silver coin is available in special uncirculated quality and will have a maximum mintage of 50,000. Each of these coins is vacuumed sealed in a colourful and informative blister pack, with a gold-colored sleeve and bilingual text in English and German. 

The reverse design of the 5 euro coin, which is the same for both the copper and silver versions, features the Musikverein’s main concert hall, the Golden Hall and its impressive organ. The obverse designed by the Mint’s Chief engraver Thomas Pesendorfer (who is also the designer for the Vienna Philharmonic bullion coin issued since 1989) highlights the intricate details found in the Golden Hall. Most famous of these are the caryatids. These female draped figures seem to carry the weight of the magnificent building on their heads. In the upper background can be seen a portion of the complex faceted ceiling with frescoes. As well the mighty pipes of the famous organ are noted in the design. Mr. Pesendorfer has achieved great depth of field on this coin with his clever design that uses the corner of the Golden Hall, the ceiling, and the chandelier to allow one to feel like they are in the hall. 

The obverse of the nine-sided coin is the standard 5 euro design, with the denomination encircled by the shields of the nine federal provinces of Austria. In the center is the face value of 5 euros. The obverse was designed by mint engraver Helmut Andexlinger. 

The Musikverein celebrates its 200 anniversary in 2012. It started as a small group of friends of music and grew rapidly and soon had its own concert hall. Prior to building the performance hall it currently owns, they had a small hall that only seated 700 listeners. It was much too small to satisfy the demand from the public who wanted to enjoy great music on a regular basis. Today’s Musikverein concert hall was built and is owned by the Society of Music Friends on land given to them by the Emperor Franz Joseph. The opening day was January 6, 1870. The concert hall is considered by experts to be one of the finest in the world, which is truly amazing considering it was built at a time when the science of acoustics did not exist. The Golden Hall is world-renowned because it is from here that the annual New Year’s concert is broadcast. Some estimates state that more than a billion listeners tune in for this annual broadcast.

Technical Specifications:

Quality: special uncirculated

Face value: 5 Euro

Coin design: Thomas Pesendorfer / Helmut Andexlinger

Diameter: 28.50 mm

Alloy: Silver Ag 800 silver

Content: 8.00 g

Total weight: 10.00 g

Source: muenzeoesterreich.at

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14th Yang di-Pertuan Agong coin?

Everyone already knew, yesterday, Sultan Abdul Halim Mu'adzam Shah took his oath as the 14th Yang Dipertuan Agong at Istana Negara. One question that most probably in all Malaysian coin collectors mind, will Bank Negara Malaysia (BNM) mint any commemorative coin for the new 14th YDP Agong coronation. The last two YDP Agong have their coins minted by Bank Negara. But this time, the oldest monarch in Malaysia History (84 years old) is making history as the first head of state to become King/YDPA twice. He previously served as the fifth Yang di-Pertuan Agong from 1970 to 1975.

BNM has released a press statement about the new Agong coin sales that will be held on 28 June 2012; New Agong coin sales 28 June 2012.

I had been asking about it in BNM Facebook page but still with no reply from BNM Admin. In my opinion, BNM should mint two types of coins,  fifth Yang di-Pertuan Agong and 14th Yang di-Pertuan Agong coins. I know Kedah people love their King so much, BNM will have no problem to sell those coins. The only problem is if the King agree/give his approval to mint the coins. In my opinion as a coin collector, it will be a great piece of coin to collect since we can keep a coin with a young King face and a coin with current pictures of the King.

A little bit biography of Sultan Abdul Halim Mu'adzam Shah. He born on 28 November 1927.  Tuanku Abdul Halim married twice: In 1956 to Tuanku Bahiyah, daughter of Tuanku Abdul Rahman of Negeri Sembilan by whom he has three daughters. In 1975 to Cik Haminah binti Hamidun, a commoner from Perak, who was titled Che Puan Kedah until 9 January 2004 when she was promoted to Sultanah of Kedah On 15 July 2008. On 15 July 2008, Tuanku Abdul Halim Muadzam Shah celebrated his Golden Jubilee as the Sultan of Kedah. He is only the fourth Sultan in a line of 28 Sultans who have celebrated 50 years of reign in Kedah.

With so much history in the men himself, I think BNM should mint a new coin for 14th Yang di-Pertuan Agong. I will update if there is any news about any new coins for 14th YDPA. In the meanwhile, you can read my post about a petition for BNM to make an online shop for us collector; BNM online shop petition. So far, over 20 collectors has signed the petition.

Please share your opinions about the new YDPA coins.

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1787 gold coin sold $7.4M

A rare 1787 gold coin sold $7.4M in an auction, one of the highest prices ever paid for a gold coin. The rare 1787 gold Brasher doubloon purchased by a Wall Street investment firm. A New Orleans-based coin and precious metals company, Blanchard and Co., brokered the deal but identities of the buyer and seller were not disclosed.  Minted by Ephraim Brasher, a goldsmith and neighbor of George Washington, the coin contains 26.66 grams of gold, slightly less than an ounce. The Brasher doubloon is considered the first American-made gold coin denominated in dollars; the U.S. Mint in Philadelphia didn't begin striking coins until the 1790s.

AP Photo/Chris Baudot, Blanchard and Company, Inc.

The 1787 Brasher Doubloon is an impressive example of early American design. The debate continues as to which side of the coin is the obverse, but most numismatists now agree that the landscape side of the coin is the obverse. The coin features the radiant sun just behind the peak of a mountain with the sea in front. Brasher’s name is boldly engraved below the sea. The landscape is framed by a circle of beads. Along the periphery of the coin, separated by rosettes, are the legends “NOVA EBORAC,” which is the Latin name for New York, “COLUMBIA” and the state motto “EXCELSIOR.” Translated literally, the legend means New York, America, Ever Upward. “Excelsior” remains the New York State motto to this day.

picture by: emediawire.com

The reverse depicts a proud, heraldic eagle with its wings displayed. The eagle is facing right and its head is surrounded by thirteen five-pointed stars, symbolizing the thirteen original states. Across the eagle’s breast is a shield. In the right talon, representing peace, are olive branches, and in the left talon are the arrows of war.  The entire eagle is encircled by a wreath. At the bottom edge of the coin is the date with rosettes placed on either side. At the top edge is the inscription “UNUM E PLURIBUS” (One From Many) which is separated by two six-pointed stars.

The coin is called a Doubloon because it is approximately equal in weight to the Spanish Doubloon which circulated actively in colonial America. A value of $16 was initially attributed to the coin, but later research shows that this value was erroneously placed and the “Doubloon” was actually worth $15 at the time of issue. This value was first suggested in a comprehensive article about Brasher Doubloons written by numismatist William Swoger and published in the June 1, 1992 issue of Coin World magazine. Additional information about weights and measures of the era was published in the 1993 book, "Money of the American Colonies and Confederation," by Phil Mossman.

Source: Associated Press.

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Investor or Collector

Are you an investor or a collector? Have you asked that question to yourself recently? Why do I ask this kind of question today? Last Friday, I had been posting about Bank Negara Malaysia (BNM) online shop petition (you can read it here: BNM online shop-petition) and many of my friends reply and join the petition. For some who don't like the idea, they asking me why do they need to sacrifice for other collectors who don't know how to get their collection at BNM? They said online shop will only killed our hobby and the price of BNM commemorative coins will be drop drastically because everyone can get new coin easily. Selfish? For me, everyone have their own opinion, you have the right to say anything you want.

Do you collect coins and banknotes as an investor? If you buy coins collection and think about gain any profit in the future, that mean you're an investor. You buy to gain profit not because the beauty of the coins. Most investor will buy and put their collection in a safe place. Nowadays, I saw many investor coming into this hobbies. Most of them don't have any knowledge of their collections. When I ask them why they join this hobby. Most of their answer were their friends said it is rewarding then buying gold. Are coin and banknote collecting more rewarding then buying gold? In my opinion, the answer is yes, if you have the knowledge and patient. If you can predict which coins will get highest profit potential.

Do you think you're a collector? Collector collect coins because in their eyes the coin design is beautiful and they want to keep it in their collection. Collector don't think about profit, they just want to collect. A collector will love to hold and look at his/her coins collection. Collectors always want a complete collection of anything that they like. They learn the history of the old coins and banknotes that they have in their possession. If they don't have enough money to buy any collection, a chance to hold their dream coins or banknotes, the way it feels to hold them, already satisfy a collector.

Some of us can have both attitude. Many collector keep their collections for profit but most of the time, the profit goes to a new coin. I cannot tell you whatever attitude that you must choose. I don't force anyone to join my online petition. In my opinion, BNM online shop is just an options if we want to buy any BNM new commemorative coins. Its just a place for us collector to share our opinion. If you think an online shop can help you get your collection, sign the petition. If you think it will only lower the profit gain from new BNM coin, you have your right not to sign. The choice is yours, I am only giving you opportunity to voice out your opinion.

You can always go to my post and click the ipetition link in  BNM online shop-petition if you want to sign and agree with the petition.

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BSP will release Jose Rizal coin

The Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) will release a Jose Rizal commemorate coin this December to commemorate 150th years of The Philippine national heroes which the country celebrated last June 19, 2011. The face of the coin will feature the portrait of the hero and the markings, “150 years,” “Republika ng Pilipinas” and “1861-2011.” Etched on the reverse side are the new BSP seal, “1-piso” and “2011.” BSP will produce 10 million pieces of the round, grayish, nickel-plated steel coin which has the same size (24-millimeters in diameter) and weight (5.35 grams) as the one-piso coin currently in circulation. The Office of the President and BSP’s Monetary Board have both approved the issuance of the coin. He also has been feature in 2 dalawang piso banknote before.

José Protasio Rizal Mercado y Alonso Realonda (June 19, 1861 – December 30, 1896), was a Filipino polymath, nationalist and the most prominent advocate for reforms in the Philippines during the Spanish colonial era. He is considered the Philippines' national hero and the anniversary of Rizal's death is commemorated as a Philippine holiday called Rizal Day. Rizal's 1896 military trial and execution made him a martyr of the Philippine Revolution. As a political figure, Rizal was the founder of La Liga Filipina, a civic organization that subsequently gave birth to the Katipunan led by Andres Bonifacio and Emilio Aguinaldo. He was a proponent of institutional reforms by peaceful means rather than by violent revolution. The general consensus among Rizal scholars, however, attributed his martyred death as the catalyst that precipitated the Philippine Revolution. Rizal was executed at Bagumbayan, now Luneta, on 30 December 1896 which ushered in the Philippine Revolution against Spain.

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We want BNM online shop-petition

I have create an online petition to all my Malaysia coin collector friends who are not satisfied with Bank Negara Malaysia (BNM) method of selling. Many of us want BNM to make an online shop since not everyone have free time to go to every BNM coin launch. You can sign the petition by email or just login using your Facebook account. Please share your comment/idea in the petition. I also need your help to spread this petition (tweet, Facebook, e-mail etc) to any coin collector that you know, the more the merrier. This petition already closed. You can check the result here; BNM please here our voices.

 Here is the wording of my online petition:

We want Bank Negara Malaysia (BNM) to make an online shop for their future commemorative coins since not anyone can go to BNM coin release day. BNM has been telling us to go to BNM branches or Sasana Kijang but not everyone live near any of that place. All collectors should be united and we should speak our dissatisfaction. Share this online petition with all your friends and families. I will forward them to BNM after 30 days. Regards, lunaticg.blogspot.com.

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Official London 2012 Olympic coins

Early last month, Royal Mint has revealed. The official London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic coins. The coins are winning designs from Royal Mint competition for art and design students attending higher education colleges and universities across the UK. Two British students had won the competition; Olympic coin by Saiman Miah, Paralympic coin by Pippa Sanderson. Both of them get £5,000 prize money each and a chance for their design to be a mementos of London 2012. The coins are UK legal tender.

The designer of the official Olympic coin, 24-year-old architectural student Saiman Miah (left), from Birmingham is currently studying for his Masters degree at the Birmingham School of Architecture. The designer of the official Paralympic coin, mature graphic and media design graduate Pippa Sanderson from Malvern, Worcestershire (right) recently graduated with a First Class Honours Degree in Graphic and Media Design at Hereford College of Arts. Both coin design has a London 2012 Olympic emblem, which has a Union flag infill in full colour, is exclusive to the Official Olympic and Paralympic precious metal Proof coins.

The London 2012 Olympic Gold Proof £5 Coin

The inspiration for Saiman Miah design came from his love of architecture and includes a detailed impression of London’s iconic skyline. Saiman also incorporates pictograms of athletes around the edge of the skyline to create a clock face referencing to another London icon, Big Ben.

Technical Specifications:

Denomination: £5

Alloy: 22 Carat Gold

Weight: 39.94 g

Diameter: 38.61 mm

Designer (Reverse): Saiman Miah

Designer (Obverse): Ian Rank-Broadley FRBS

Edge Inscription: Not Applicable

The London 2012 Paralympic Gold Proof £5 Coin

The Paralympic coin design by Pippa Sanderson is a modern interpretation of some of the key skills we will enjoy watching during the Paralympic Games. The top left section of the coin features an archery target representing accuracy and the words ‘London 2012’, while the top right of the design shows spoked wheels representing manoeuvrability. The bottom right section shows Big Ben representing London and the bottom left section of the coin features a stopwatch representing speed and the London 2012 Paralympic emblem.

Technical Specifications:

Denomination: £5

Alloy: 22 Carat Gold

Weight: 39.94 g

Diameter: 38.61 mm

Designer (Reverse): Pippa Sanderson

Designer (Obverse): Ian Rank-Broadley FRBS

Edge Inscription: Not Applicable

To purchase a coin or for further information on the Royal Mint’s full London 2012 collection, please visit www.royalmint.com

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New £2 Charles Dickens coin

Royal Mint has unveiled £2 Charles Dickens coin to  marks the 200th anniversary of the birth of Charles Dickens. The obverse of the coin  features the familiar portrait of The Queen by Ian Rank-Broadley FRBS and the reverse feature the beardy face of legendary English writer design by Matthew Dent. The portrait made up from the titles of Dickens’ famous works. On the edge of the coin is an inscription of the quotation 'Something Will Turn Up', spoken by Wilkins Micawber in David Copperfield - said to have been Dickens's own favourite story.

Pictures by: dailymail.co.uk

On the reverse, a profile outline, immediately recognisable as Dickens has been painstakingly created from the titles of Dickens’ famous works – from his early writings, Sketches by Boz, to his final and unfinished novel the Mystery of Edwin Drood. Taken from Dickens’ own favourite story, David Copperfield, the words chosen for the edge inscription are those of the lovable and always hopeful Mr Micawber: SOMETHING WILL TURN UP. The obverse features the familiar portrait of The Queen by Ian Rank-Broadley FRBS.

Technical Specifications:

Denomination: £2

Alloy: Bi-metal

Weight: 12.00 g

Diameter: 28.40 mm

Charles Dickens

One of Britain’s best-loved authors, Charles Dickens is celebrated on the 2012 £2 coin. Dickens was born on 7 February 1812 and spent an idyllic childhood, first in his birthplace of Portsmouth and later in Chatham, Kent. The family then moved to London where, in due course, his father was incarcerated for debt and the 12-year-old Dickens put to work in a blacking factory. Deeply interested in social reform he embarked on a career as a journalist at the True Sun radical newspaper and as ‘Boz’ wrote short stories for the Morning Chronicle. His experiences along with his rich imagination,exhilarating humour and powerful social sensibilities were used to create enthralling stories with wonderfully extravagant characters in which life in Victorian London, at once vibrant and pitiless, was vividly exposed. His novels were tremendously popular during his lifetime and are still adored by readers all over the world.

You can also buy The 2012 UK Charles Dickens £2 Brilliant Uncirculated Pack online at The Royal Mint at www.royalmint.com. The coin struck to Brilliant Uncirculated quality, a better quality of finish than coins in everyday use. Presented in a colourful presentation folder detailing the life and works of Charles Dickens and giving information of the coin design.

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Perth Mint Dragon Gold Coin 2012

Perth Mint celebrates the auspicious Year of the Dragon with a release of the dragon gold proof coloured coins. Each coin is meticulously struck from 99.99% pure gold in proof quality.  The 2012 dragon design releases are available as individual 1oz, 1/4oz and 1/10oz coins. The coins are part of Australian Lunar Coin series II. Year of the Dragon, the fifth animal in the 12-year cycle of the Chinese zodiac. The birth dates for people ruled by the Chinese Lunar dragon include 1916, 1928, 1940, 1952, 1964, 1976, 1988, 2000 and 2012. Those born under the influence of this sign are said to be confident, enterprising, independent, self-assured, brave, and passionate.

Year of the dragon gold proof coloured coins

The coin’s reverse depicts a coloured dragon with a representation of a ‘pearl of wisdom’. The Chinese character for ‘dragon’ and the inscription YEAR OF THE DRAGON also appear in the design with The Perth Mint’s traditional ‘P’ mintmark. Issued as Australian legal tender, the Ian Rank-Broadley effigy of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, the 2012 year-date and the monetary denomination are shown on the obverse of each coin.

Technical Specifications:

Gold Content (Troy oz): 1 0, .25,  0.10

Monetary Denomination (AUD): 100, 25, 15

Fineness (% purity): 99.99, 99.99, 99.99

Minimum Gross Weight (g): 31.112, 7.777, 3.111

Maximum Diameter (mm): 39.34, 22.60, 18.60

Maximum Thickness (mm): 2.50, 2.20, 2.00

Mintage: no more than 5,000 1oz coins, 5,000 1/4oz coins and 5,000 1/10oz coins.

Gold Proof Lunar coins are housed in elegant oval-shaped display cases, featuring a glossy timber-effect lid and presented in coloured illustrated shippers. A numbered Certificate of Authenticity accompanies each coin.

Year of the dragon gold proof coins

The reverse of each coin depicts a traditional Chinese dragon, a long, scaled, serpentine creature with four legs, and a ‘pearl of wisdom’. The Chinese character for ‘dragon’ and the inscription ‘Year of the Dragon’ also appear in the design with The Perth Mint’s traditional ‘P’ mintmark. Issued as legal tender under the Australian Currency Act 1965, each coin features the Ian Rank-Broadley effigy of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II on its obverse.

Technical Specifications:

Gold Content (Troy oz): 1 0, .25,  0.10

Monetary Denomination (AUD): 100, 25, 15

Fineness (% purity): 99.99, 99.99, 99.99

Minimum Gross Weight (g): 31.112, 7.777, 3.111

Maximum Diameter (mm): 39.34, 22.60, 18.60

Maximum Thickness (mm): 2.50, 2.20, 2.00

Mintage:  3,000 1oz coins, 5,000 1/4oz coins, 5,000 1/10oz coins and 3,000 three-coin sets will be released.

Gold Proof Lunar coins are housed in elegant oval-shaped display cases, featuring a glossy timber-effect lid and presented in coloured illustrated shippers. A numbered Certificate of Authenticity accompanies each coin.

For enquiries and coin orders, you can visit Perth Mint at http://www.perthmint.com.au/

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Royal Canadian Mint Dragon Gold Coin 2012

Its time of the year again every mint in this world try to produce the most beautiful design of Chinese Almanac coins. Royal Canadian Mint has started releasing their design since end of August 2011. Their 1 kilo pure gold coin and 150 dollars crafted in 18-karat gold coin has been sold out. The only Royal Canadian Mint Dragon Gold Coin that has left for buying is 1/10 ounce pure gold dragon coin. All 3 of the Royal Canadian Mint dragon gold coins has a different designs. Dragon is the emblem of the Emperor. Dragon and Emperor are one and everything that relates to the Emperor is described in terms of the dragon, dragon-throne, dragon-face; even the Emperor’s walk is referred to as the “dragon-pace.” This coin will be a great gift for families and friends who born in 1940, 1952, 1964, 1976, 1988, 2000 or 2012.

Gold Kilogram Coin - Year of the Dragon (2012)
A stylized dragon character, surrounded by lotus flowers and dark thunderclouds, which are an omen of prosperity and often associated with dragons.

Mintage: Limited to 38 coins worldwide
Composition: 99.99% pure gold
Finish: proof
Weight (g): 1000.0
Diameter (mm): 101.6
Edge: plain
Certificate: serialized
Face value: 2500 dollars
Artist: Three Degrees Creative Group Inc. (reverse) , Susanna Blunt (obverse)
Status: Sold-Out

This product is only available to order by calling 1-800-267-1871 (Canada), 1-800-268-6468 (US) or (613) 954-2626 (International).

$150 Gold Classic Chinese Zodiac Coin - Year of the Dragon (2012)
A classic Asian interpretation of the mythical Dragon, complete with auspicious clouds of good fortune.

Mintage: Limited to 2500 coins worldwide
Composition: 75% gold, 25% silver
Finish: proof
Weight (g): 11.84
Diameter (mm): 28
Edge: serrated
Certificate: serialized
Face value: 150 dollars
Artist: Aries Cheung (reverse) , Susanna Blunt (obverse)
Status: Sold-Out

1/10 Ounce Pure Gold Coin - Year of the Dragon (2012)

A four-clawed dragon stretches along the outer edge of the coin; its lines and contours full of fiery character; with a Chinese character and clouds representing its good fortune. Coin is encapsulated and presented in a maroon clamshell case lined with flock and protected by a black sleeve.

Mintage: Limited to 38888 coins worldwide
Composition: 99.99% pure gold
Finish: specimen
Weight (g): 3.13
Diameter (mm): 16
Edge: serrated
Certificate: serialized
Face value: 5 dollars
Artist: Three Degrees Creative Group Inc. (reverse), Susanna Blunt (obverse)
Status: available
Shipping begins January 3, 2012

The coins are sold by Royal Canadian Mint. For enquiries and coin orders, you can contact Royal Canadian Mint via their website http://www.mint.ca/.

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Singapore Dragon Gold Coin 2012

Early November, The Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS) launched the 2012 Year of the Dragon Almanac Coins, Singapore Dragon Gold Coin. The coins will be issued on 1 January 2012. The dragon coins are part of the third Chinese Almanac Coins Series. One of the highlight of the coin release are 1 kg 999 fine Silver Proof-like coins with face value of $80, the largest uncirculated coin to be issued by MAS and $1 Gold Brilliant Uncirculated Coin, the smallest 999.9 gold coin ever issued by MAS. The Almanac coins will be sold by the Singapore Mint.

On the Reverse, the image of the dragon is integrated with ancient Chinese seal characters in a design that combines tradition with modernity. The animal is symbolized by the Chinese characters of the “Heavenly Stems and Earthly Branches” to enhance the characteristics of the animal and the oriental flavour. The design incorporates a peony which symbolises blessings and festive cheer. The obverse of the coin bears the Singapore Arms with the year 2012.

$200 Gold Proof Coin

5 troy ounce of 999.9 fine gold with diameter of 60 mm. Limited mintage of 200 pieces.

$100 Gold Proof Coin

1 troy ounce of 999.9 fine gold. Mintage of 2,000 pieces.

$5 Gold Proof Coin

¼ troy ounce of 999.9 fine gold. Mintage of 2,000 pieces.

$1 Gold Brilliant Uncirculated Coin

With a diameter of only 7 mm and weighing only 0.3 gm, it is the smallest 999.9 gold coin issued by MAS. Mintage of 10,000 pieces.

3-in-1 Coin Set

Consists of a 1 troy ounce 999.9 fine gold proof coin, a 2 troy ounce 999 fine silver piedfort proof coloured coin, a cupro-nickel proof-like coin and a floral-shaped ingot. These coins are part of the coin mintages that are sold individually.

5 Troy Ounce Lunar Series Coin Set

Consists of a 5 troy ounce 999.9 fine gold proof coin and a 5 troy ounce 999 fine silver proof coin. They are displayed to form the auspicious figure ‘8’. Each coin set comes with a serialised certificate of authenticity. These coins are part of the coin mintages that are sold individually. Limited to 88 sets.

The coins will be sold by The Singapore Mint. For enquiries and coin orders, you can contact The Singapore Mint at 6566 2626 / 6339 0886 / 6895 0288 / 6222 2486 ，or via Internet at www.singaporemint.com. Orders must reach The Singapore Mint by 31 December 2011.

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