The Austrian Mint has released a 25th Anniversary Gold Philharmonic Proof Set to mark the launch of the Vienna Philharmonic coin since 1989 (10 October). The Proof set will includes a 1 ounce and 1/4 ounce gold coins dated 2014. The set come in a display case with protective sleeve and numbered certificate of authenticity. Only 5,000 sets will be available for worldwide release.
In 1989, the Vienna Philharmonic started to be issued in the two weights of 1 ounce and 1/4 ounce gold bullion coin. In 1991, a 1/10 ounce Vienna Philharmonic gold coin was added in the size available for the bullion series, followed by a 1/2 ounce in 1994 and 1 ounce silver Vienna Philharmonic in 2008. This year, range of sizes available for the bullion series has been expanded to include a 1/25 ounce coin.
On the reverse show an award-winning design by Chief engraver Thomas Pesendorfer’s features a harmonious assortment of musical instruments, including a Viennese horn, a bassoon, a harp, four violins and a cello.
The coin obverse shows the great organ of the Musikverein in concert hall in Vienna, home of the world famous Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra.
The Vienna Philharmonic coin is struck in pure gold, 999.9 fine (24 karats). The face value in euros, the weight, alloy purity and year of issue are also inscribed on this side of the coin. According to the World Gold Council, it was the best-selling gold coin worldwide in 1992, 1995 and 1996.
The 25th Anniversary Gold Philharmonic Proof Set is priced at €1,590.00 and available at the Austrian Mint website www.muenzeoesterreich.at.
