Moneta's Temple and Gallery

France - Caisse Bonne Foi 3 Sols 1791

Moneta — Fri, 03 May 2024 17:22:09 -0400

by: Moneta

Description: A rare and uncirculated coinage issue of the French Revolutionary period of L'AN III (1791). Issued by the Caisse de Bonne Foi (Foy) and the scarcer of the two general types struck. The lesser valued type, with the helmeted portrait of Minerva, can also be seen here in the Moneta Museum at this: http://www.moneta-coins.com/photopost/showphoto.php?photo=1750&title=french-revolutionbonne-foy&cat=569 This 3 Sols Monnaies de Confiance coin features a number of Revolutionary symbols that bear some explanation. The tablet, seen often, here proclaims "DROI DE L'HOMME ARTI V" [The Rights of Man Article 5]. The baby is recognized as the 'Genie of France' and as a token coinage it states "PAYABLE EN ECHANGE D'ASSIGNATS" which meant that when the time was right this 3 Sols denomination could be exchanged for the paper Assignats, which nobody really wanted. It's a one year type of 1791. There are five varieties depicted in Reynaud. More information to follow. This piece is not physically in the Moneta Museum

France - Caisse Bonne Foi 3 Sols 1791

Moneta — Fri, 03 May 2024 17:22:09 -0400

by: Moneta

Description: A rare and uncirculated token issue of the French Revolutionary period of L'AN III (1791). Issued by the Caisse de Bonne Foi and the scarcer of the two general types struck. The lesser valued type, with the helmeted portrait of Minerva, can also be seen here in the Moneta Museum at this:

Rome - Legion X Fretensis Counterstamps (x2)

Moneta — Sat, 06 Apr 2024 17:06:03 -0400

by: Moneta

Description: The price of these Judean (Syria) Legionary counterstamps is high in the market but I try to acquire all Legion X Frentensis material that I can find. Countermarks were applied in the late 1st C. A.D. OB: Bust in oval countermark. Rev: galley in rectangular countermark on a Judea Capta bronze (?). For this exact type (perhaps this one) see Hendin # 6644. For the suspected host coin see Hendin 6472-4. Countermarks are VF on a fair host. The host may be a Judea Capta series coin of Vespasian from the mint of Caesarea Maritima, H#6472. It's ~ 22mm at 3.59 g.

Italy - 5 Lire 1911 50th Anniversary of the Kingdom

Moneta — Thu, 04 Apr 2024 13:27:24 -0400

by: Moneta

Description: ITALY. Vittorio Emanuele III. (Emperor, 1900-1946). 1911-R AR 5 Lire. PCGS AU58, better than photo. 50th Anniversary of the Kingdom. Rome. Head left / Two classical figures standing. Italy - 5 Lire 1911 50 Years of Unification. In the field there are two figures: the female represents Italy and the male, seated on an altar, Rome. Behind the figures there is a giant steam warship adorned with festoons and with the Scudo Sabaudo on the bow. At the left of the figures is a plow covered with flowers with 1861-1911. Edge lettering: *FERT*∞*FERT*∞*FERT*∞. Medal alignment ^^. Engraver: Domenico Trentacoste. KM 53; Dav.-143; Gigante 71; MIR 1135a; Mont.-110; Pagani 707. This addition completes the 50th Anniversary of the Kingdom four coin commemorative set, all in AU - Unc. FERT was the motto of the house of Savoy, adopted by King Vittorio Amedeo II (1666-1732). It is thought to be an acronym, though what it stands for have been lost to time. Theories include: 1. Foedere Et Religione Tenemur (Latin, ‘treaty and religion bind us’) 2. Fortitudo Eius Rempublicam Tenet (Latin, ‘his bravery [or strength] preserves [or defends] the state’) 3. Fides Est Regni Tutela (Latin, ‘faith is the protector of [our] kingdom’) This seems to be the most likely meaning of the acronym FERT (ed). [Numista] Italy issued a series of beautiful coins to celebrate the 50th Year of the Kingdom (unified; 1861 - 1911). The silver 2 Lire is affordable, with a nice example here in the Moneta Museum, while the 5 Lire is very expensive in high grades, as is the gold 50 Lire, I had to settle for this exceptional AU 58. Only 60,000 of these were struck. See the 10 Centesimi here in the Museum, which is the only other coin in the 1911 Anniversary series. Obverse shows the portrait of the King of Italy, Vittorio Emanuele III. Reverse, are two standing figures: the female represents Italy and the male Rome. Behind the figures there is a giant steel WWI war ship. It's interesting to note that the 10 Centesimi and 2 Lire coins feature the wooden ship but the reverse design is changed for the 5 Lire and this 50 Lire piece with the war ship now changed to a steel war ship that is garlanded. Design by Italian designer D. Trentacoste and Luigi Giorgi INC. The ANA's "Numismatist" for Oct 2020 (p.39) has a nice little feature on the coins of Vittorio Emanuele III at this: http://onlinedigitalpublishing.com/publication/frame.php?i=673359&p=&pn=&ver=html5

Hungary - 100 Korona 1908

Moneta — Mon, 19 Feb 2024 12:48:18 -0500

by: Moneta

Description: Emperor Franz Joseph I; (18 Aug 1830 – 21 Nov.1916) he was Emperor of Austria, King of Hungary, and the ruler of the other states of the Habsburg monarchy from 2 December 1848 until his death in 1916. In the early part of his reign, his realms and territories were referred to as the Austrian Empire, but were reconstituted as the dual monarchy of the Austro-Hungarian Empire in 1867. From 1 May 1850 to 24 Aug 1866, he was also president of the German Confederation. I'm not sure yet how you tell the difference between the originals and the 1974 restrikes. Numista shows the K.B. mintmark implying that's the original but doesn't show any of the past sales without the KB. The original 1908 has a mintage figure of 4,038 while the unmarked restrikes have a mintage of 475.859 K! That's a big difference but for past sales I'm not seeing that scarcity difference showing up in sales prices. Further research req. to determine how to tell the difference between the two strikes.

USA - Morgan Eagle Dollar tribute of The Smithsonian Collection

Moneta — Mon, 05 Feb 2024 19:33:34 -0500

by: Moneta

Description: The Smithsonian Collection (Washington DC) has minted many varieties of coins, and coin patterns, etc. as restrikes. It's an amazing variety of reproductions but most are not per the originals and do not display 'COPY'. Most are seldom seen for sale and I can't find a list of what has been minted over the years. It would appear that the mintages, especially in the precious metals, are fairly scarce. One exception is are the restrikes of the Confederate States of America one cents that are available readily in platinum, gold, silver and copper. This Morgan Dollar is .5 ounce of .999 gold (15.552 g AGW) in an NGC holder of Proof 70 Ultra Cameo. This is the original Stacks & Bowers auction photo.

Anglesey Pary's Mines 1790 Boulton Dumarest Pattern

Moneta — Thu, 25 Jan 2024 19:51:15 -0500

by: Moneta

Description: Amlwch, Parys Mines Company; D&H 380, Boulton’s pattern halfpenny by Dumarest struck in copper, 13.07g. A highly collectible bronzed issue, with just a few struck. About uncirculated. An important issue with the title of being the first regular sized token, in collar, manufactured by steam press at Boulton’s Soho Mint. The edge is: PAYABLE IN ANGLESEY OR LONDON (with remainder engrailed). More to come on this important issue. Purchased from The Last Druid Auction (1/24) Lot #20 at ~$470.00

French Rev. - 5 Sols Silver, Monneron & Boulton 1792

Moneta — Wed, 17 Jan 2024 21:51:16 -0500

by: Moneta

Description: More to come on the detailed description. Reynaud 2d type w/o last "T" of DEPARTMEN(T)S on the edge, petit coin strike that's a hair short 28 g. This is a silver plating made during manufacture in Birmingham U.K. (Monneron) rather than the phony types silvered later. It's clear to me that the official silver plated ones are far scarcer than the official gold plated rarities.

Mexico - 50 Pesos 1947 Matte Restrike

Moneta — Mon, 13 Nov 2023 19:18:13 -0500

by: Moneta

Description: MEXICO. 50 Pesos Restrike, "1947" also known as a "Centenario" from the Mexico City Mint. NGC MS-69. Designed by Emilio del Moral, the coins feature an image of Winged Victory signifying the Angel of Independence. In her right hand, she holds a laurel crown, representing victory. In her left hand, she holds broken chains symbolizing freedom. This image also represents the famed statue, fondly called El Ángel, that the people of Mexico erected in 1910 in central Mexico City to celebrate 100 years since the beginning of their war for independence from Spain. The reverse showcases the Mexican Coat of Arms as well as an eagle atop a cactus devouring a serpent. Fr-172R; KM-481. AGW: 1.2057 oz. Restrike issue from new dies. A nearly flawless example of this iconic large gold type with velvety surfaces and an enticing rich golden color. During 1949-1972 a total of 3,975,654 pieces, most likely dated 1947, were restruck an an additional 473,900 pieces dated 1947 were restruck during 2000-2017. In 1996 matte restrikes were produced. NGC: 48 graded MS 69; twelve higher.

Mexico - 50 Pesos 1947 Matte Restrike

Moneta — Mon, 13 Nov 2023 19:18:13 -0500

by: Moneta

Description: MEXICO. 50 Pesos Restrike, "1947". Mexico City Mint. NGC MS-69. Fr-172R; KM-481. AGW: 1.2057 oz. Restrike issue from new dies. A nearly flawless example of this iconic large gold type with velvety surfaces and an enticing rich golden color. During 1949-1972 a total of 3,975,654 pieces, most likely dated 1947, were restruck an an additional 473,900 pieces dated 1947 were restruck during 2000-2017. In 1996 matte restrikes were produced. NGC: 48 graded MS 69; twelve higher.

Mexico - 50 Pesos 1947 Matte Restrike

Moneta — Mon, 13 Nov 2023 19:18:13 -0500

John Wilkinson Penny 1787 - The First

Moneta — Fri, 13 Oct 2023 22:52:39 -0400

by: Moneta

Description: Warwickshire (Warks), Willey 1787. John Wilkinson, The "Iron Master" copper, 14.06g. This important issue is believed to be the first of the Wilkinson issues. The reverse features a man working at a drop hammer. The edge lettering is "WILLEY SNEDSHILL BERSHAM BRADLEY." The big distinction variety here is the window on the back wall, no other Wilkinson issue features this window. It’s assumed that these were actually made with the intent of being penny denominations but merchants, given the size of the tokens, refused to accept them. Notice there is no denomination on Wilkinson tokens, unlike the Anglesey pennies and halfpennies issued in the same year. Also, this appears to be the only Iron Master token that doesn't have rim denticles. This example has some scattered handling, Scarce. The following from Jon Lusk's book "British and Irish Tradesmen and Their Copper Tokens 1787 - 1805": John Wilkinson (1728-1808) was truly an iron master. He was also heavily involved financially, in the copper industry. (Adding copper to cast iron increases its strength and corrosion resistive properties.) He held shares in Cornish copper mines such as United Mines, North Downs, Consolidated Mines, Poldice, Scorrier, Wheal Bussy, Tresaven, and Chasewater. He held patents for a number of processes, one being the boring of iron cannons. In 1787 he launched the first iron barge, mocked by the locals until it actually floated. (ed. as the ancient prognostication states "Iron in the water shall float As easy as a wooden boat.") See the other reverse types that depict an sailing river barge or a figure of Vulcan hammering at an anvil. Die sinker and manufacturer is John Hancock.

Belgium - Ghent 1915 2 Franken, thick '2' both sides copper

Moneta — Sun, 09 Jul 2023 19:27:05 -0400

by: Moneta

Description: Emergency money for Belgium and the Flemish Ghent (Gent) region during WWI German occupation (1915 - 1918). Designed by the famous sculptor Georges Verbanck. These were somehow used/issued by the Germans to encourage the Flemish separatist movement from Belgium. Beautiful execution of an iron planchet that should be plated with brass and copper, but here there's an error and both sides are copper. Additionally, this appears to be an undocumented variety that has a THICK '2', similar to the variety of a thick '50' in the Centimes series. Compare this example to a regular issue 2 Franken here in the Museum. Other denominations exist in this series (1 Frank, 50 Centimes), some are round. There seems to be a wide variation of prices asked for these in the European market. I've seen asking prices of over $500 (high grade). Generally, I'd say paying more than about $100 would be a mistake. Half that amount is about right and the various denominations, shapes, etc. seem to be equally available. An iron coin with bras plating on the obverse and copper on the reverse to help prevent counterfeiting. In the series the 2 Franken is the most common and doesn't seem to have any varieties available. Year and value within circle and diamond. Lettering along edges, in Dutch above, in French below. Lettering: UITBETAALBAAR OP 1 JANUARIJ 1918 1915 2 FR REMBOURSABLE LE 1 JANVIER 1918 Translation: Refundable on January 1, 1918 1915 2 Francs Refundable on January 1, 1918 VIEW & DOWNLOAD: Here's a link to the article I wrote for the "NI Bulletin" [Sep/Oct 2023], the bimonthly publication of Numismatics International. It explores the conditions of the WWI minting of these unusual emergency coins of Ghent, Belgium - click this: www.moneta-coins.com/library/Ghent%20Belgium%20Emergency%20Coins%201915.pdf

Belgium - Ghent WWI Emergency Money, 10 Centimes

Moneta — Sun, 09 Jul 2023 18:31:45 -0400

by: Moneta

Description: City of Ghent (Province of East Flanders) under King Albert I (1909-1934), in exiled government in London. Woman in center, surrounded by flowers and the heraldic lion in front and bottom. Not physically in the Moneta Museum. Lettering: STAD GENT; Translation: City of Ghent. Reverse lettering: UIT BETAALBAAR 10c JANUARI 1920 [Translation:] Exchangeable 10c January 1920 In early 1918, the occupation government requisitioned all available metal. The municipal administration was then forced to order 10 and 25 cent cardboard coins. The artist who designed these monetary tokens is René Decramer. They were printed by the Vanderpoorten institutions. Reference cited is Laurens Aernout, 2017; "Catalgus van Belgische Numismaticsche Uitgiften: 1831 - 2017" VIEW & DOWNLOAD: Here's a link to the article I wrote for the "NI Bulletin" [Sep/Oct 2023], the bimonthly publication of Numismatics International. It explores the conditions of the WWI minting of these unusual emergency coins of Ghent, Belgium - click this: www.moneta-coins.com/library/Ghent%20Belgium%20Emergency%20Coins%201915.pdf

Belgium - Ghent WWI Cardboard Emergency Money, 25 Centimes

Moneta — Sun, 09 Jul 2023 18:26:41 -0400

by: Moneta

Description: City of Ghent (Province of East Flanders) under King Albert I (1909-1934), in exiled government in London. Woman in center, surrounded by flowers and the heraldic lion in front and bottom. Not physically in the Moneta Museum. Lettering: STAD GENT; Translation: City of Ghent. Reverse lettering: UIT BETAALBAAR 25c JANUARI 1920 [Translation:] Exchangeable 25c January 1920 In early 1918, the occupation government requisitioned all available metal. The municipal administration was then forced to order 10 and 25 cent cardboard coins. The artist who designed these monetary tokens is René Decramer. They were printed by the Vanderpoorten institutions. Reference cited is Laurens Aernout, 2017; "Catalgus van Belgische Numismaticsche Uitgiften: 1831 - 2017" VIEW & DOWNLOAD: Here's a link to the article I wrote for the "NI Bulletin" [Sep/Oct 2023], the bimonthly publication of Numismatics International. It explores the conditions of the WWI minting of these unusual emergency coins of Ghent, Belgium - click this: www.moneta-coins.com/library/Ghent%20Belgium%20Emergency%20Coins%201915.pdf

France - 5 Decimes Regeneration Fountain LAn 2

Moneta — Mon, 22 May 2023 18:29:49 -0400

by: Moneta

Description: The Egyptian fountain statue (goddess Isis) emit the waters of restoration and a gentleman helps the poor citizen to drink of the essence of rejuvenation. More to follow, see below. OB: "REGENERATION FRANCAISE" around, in exergue "10 AOUT 1793." which translates as '10 August 1793' with the revolutionary symbol of a masons level below. Stacks Bowers sale of May '23. These are rare but occasionally obtainable. PCGS AU cleaned. Engraved by the premier designer Dupre, his name is engraved on the statue base and indicated with the Libetry Cap privy mark. Auction description: FRANCE. 5 Decimes, L'An 2-A (1793). Paris Mint. PCGS Genuine--Cleaned, AU Details. Gad-390; Maz-261. Known as the "Regeneration" 2 Sols, indicating that just as the goddess Isis regenerates water from her body to give to a citizen to drink, so does the new Franc regenerate from the Revolution. Another site describes this as: Convention, 5 Decimes regeneration, Year L'AN 2, 1793 Paris. A/ REGENERATION – FRENCH. Nature in the guise of Isis causes the water of Regeneration to spring from her bosom. The President of the Assembly gives this water to drink to a citizen; signature Dupré and in the exergue: AUGUST 10, 1793 and square. R/ .(cap). FRENCH REPUBLIC. .(Workshop).. Crown, center: 5/ DECIMES/ YEAR 2. Maz.261 – G.390/1 – F.172A. Copper – 25.14 g – 35.3 mm – 6 h. Inscribed edge: ÉGALITÉ. LIBERTÉ. INDIVISIBILITÉ; [EQUALITY. FREEDOM. INDIVISIBILITY]. This coin of 5 Decimes (or 50 Centimes or 1/2 Franc) is recognized as official by Mazard. Indeed, there is a manufacturing decree and it has been regularly put into circulation. It is now classified as a FRANC (.5 fractional). Only 154,278 struck (this seems very high as they're not that common, not KM listed). And yet another description: Obverse description: an envoy of the primary assemblies, carrying a flag, receives a cup from the President of the Convention who holds a branch in his left hand in front of a fountain, surmounted by a statue of Isis, making water gush from her breasts of Regeneration; a leopard (also a Privy mark) on its left side and signed DUPRE on the base; below are inscribed the words 10 AOUT 1793; at the bottom is expressed the privy mark from the director (masons level) & (PHRYGIAN BONNET). Reverse legend: FRENCH REPUBLIC. / .AT.. Reverse description: in the center within a wreath formed of a laurel branch on the left and an oak branch on the right in four lines: 5 / DÉCIMES / - / L'AN 2.. Liberty Cap symbol: Augustin Dupré, general engraver of currencies , Paris (1793-1794). Masons level symbol: Jean-Jacques-Joseph Anfrye, Manufacturing Director of the Mint , Paris (1793-1794). Following the implementation of the new units of measurement by the decree of May 26, 1791, the first decimal coin was minted under the Convention, it was the 5 DECIMES Year 2 of Dupré (commemorating August 10, 1793) whose production began on January 20, 1794. Under the Republican Conventional Calendar Year L'AN II of the Republic: is from September 22, 1793 to September 21, 1794. This calendar will be adopted by decree of October 5, 1793. September 22, 1792, the first day of the Republic and day of the autumnal equinox was established as the first of L'AN I. The names of the days and months were chosen by the poet Fabre d'Eglantine. Napoleon will restore the Gregorian calendar to January 1, 1806. The site InfoNumis [ http://www.infonumis.info/historique&description/Convention/index.htm ] describes this coin in great detail, including 7 varieties, most very rare. There the different mintage figures (954, 77k, 155k) written by various authors, is settled at the 77k figure, which still seems way too high for the numbers seen in the market.

France - 5 Centimes Rejuvenation Fountain LAn 2

Moneta — Mon, 22 May 2023 18:29:49 -0400

by: Moneta

Description: I believe this is an early French Revolution trial piece of 1791. I'm still looking for the detailed description of this coin. The Egyptian fountain statue emit the waters of restoration and a gentleman helps the poor citizen to drink of the essence of rejuvenation. More to follow. Stacks Bowers sale of May '23. These are rare but occasionally obtainable. PCGS AU cleaned.

Service on the Mexican Border 1916

Moneta — Mon, 08 May 2023 19:34:56 -0400

by: Moneta

Description: This is good luck pocket piece given to soldiers, usually by family members to take on deployment. This NGC MS63 brown (and probably antiqued) is in unusually good condition and quite rare thus. Many of these soldiers were part of General Pershing push into Mexico to stop border incursions and Pancho Villa. While I have a few examples here in the Moneta Museum, this photo was borrowed from on-line sources in order to display an undamaged example, carried in a pocket, most examples are beat up and worn. There seems to be undocumented varieties. See NGC Census for all Mexican War Types (these are not documented in published books yet). As shown below the catalog reference for these dollar-sized pieces is HK ["So-Called Dollars"; by Harold E. Hibler and Charles V. Kappen]. The catalog number range for these similar pieces is HK, showing the same WWI type soldier aiming a rifle, but those are WWI and this type is for Border Wars of 1916 - 1917. WWI types in HK are: 892 - 894, in bronze (892, 35mm), brass (893) and white metal (894). There's more to learn because it's clear that this specimen in bronze or copper. Recently an 'SH' reference became available for some in the series, by Jeff Shevlin & Bill Hyder. There's an on-line HK now available at this: https://www.so-calleddollars.com/index.html

Czechoslovakia - 1 Koruna 1929

Moneta — Fri, 28 Apr 2023 14:31:03 -0400

by: Moneta

Description: This is a companion to the 1938 I also have posted here. That one has such an unusual color for the same CN (copper - nickel) piece that this one is. It also fits into my special series on National Folk Maidens and/or Ceres (Demeter) theme coins. 5 M struck for this year.

Czechoslovakia - 1 Koruna 1929

Moneta — Fri, 28 Apr 2023 14:31:03 -0400

UK - Warwickshire, Moneta and Minting Press

Moneta — Mon, 06 Feb 2023 16:46:42 -0500

by: Moneta

Description: An iconic product of the era of Conder tokens, this is a product of the most prolific provincial token maker, Lutwyche of Birmingham. This may have been under commission of Kempson, but it appears to benefit Lutwyche exclusively, more research required. Obverse depicts Moneta seated holding balance scales in one hand and supporting a cornucopia spilling out coins, in exergue is "DEA PECUNIA" or goddess of money (Moneta). Additionally there's an oak sapling and a shop placard resting against a column with the words " ENGRAVING & DIE SINKING." Legend is "MEDALS & PROVINCIAL COINS." Reverse shows a manual screw coining press with 'boy pit' below and several dies with "BIRMINGHAM" in exergue, legend is " LUTWYCHES MANUFACTORY." As a DH# 219b this variety has a plain edge and was struck in collar. This token is said to be designed by Noel-Alexandre Ponthon and made by William Lutwyche, confirmation required. William Lutwyche, (1754-1801), toymaker, later token manufacturer, Temple Row and St Philip churchyard. Lutwyche was active in the production of tokens from 1791 until 1801 and seems to have had more individual commissions for tokens than any other manufacturer. His output of more than 65 tons of "legitimate provincial coins" was exceeded only by that of Thomas Williams, the consortium of Westwood and Hancock, and that of Matthew Boulton. He frequently combined dies, then in his possession, to produce various mules, concocted numerous specious issues, and has been attributed with manufacturing the bulk of evasions and lightweight coppers that appeared toward the end of the 18th century. [Numista.com]

Italy - Roman Republic Scudo 1799

Moneta — Thu, 05 Jan 2023 14:37:22 -0500

by: Moneta

Description: Roman Republic (1798 - 1799), one of the new and short lived republics established as a result of the French Revolutionary War period. Latin legend, OB: REPVBLICA ROMANA; Rx: SCVDO ROMANO. Engraver was Tommaso Mercandetti with his name appearing as T. MERCANDETTI on the underside of the ground field in exergue.

Italy - Roman Republic Scudo 1799

Moneta — Thu, 05 Jan 2023 14:37:22 -0500

Germany - Opel Factory w/ A. Hitler Portrait 1933

Moneta — Sun, 18 Sep 2022 17:17:37 -0400

by: Moneta

Description: Zach P. Collection. 1 May 1933 "Day of the German Workers" medal. This type is listed in "Medallic Portraits of Adolf Hitler" by R.W. Colbert and William D. Hyder as C-40, however, there it's listed as made in copper. Most coins, medals and tokens of the period are not made of copper, a critical industrial metal at the time. It's described without a photo so it may be an error or it may have been struck in white metal too. Here the medal appears to be about 36 mm in diameter. The description from the reference above is: C-40; Obverse: Bust of Hitler facing left. The inscription reads, "ADOLF HITLER / DER FUHRER AUS DER NOT" or "Adolf Hitler, the leader out of the hardship (want)." Reverse: The Opel factory is portrayed, surrounded by the inscription, "N.S.B.O. OPELWERKE / 1.MAI.1933 TAG DER DEUTSCHEN ARBEIT ':'" or "Organization of National Socialist Industrial Cells (Nationalsozialistische Betriebszellenorganisation) - Opel Factory; May 1, 1933 - Day of the German Worker." Physical Details: Struck in copper. 30mm Further Information about US General Motors and Opel: Hitler knew that the biggest auto and truck manufacturer in Germany was not Daimler or any other German carmaker. The biggest automotive manufacturer in Germany — indeed in all of Europe — was General Motors, which since 1929 had owned and operated the longtime German firm Opel. GM’s Opel, infused with millions in GM cash and assembly-line know-how, produced some 40 percent of the vehicles in Germany and about 65 percent of its exports. Indeed, Opel dominated Germany’s auto industry. Click this: https://jweekly.com/2006/12/01/hitler-s-carmaker/ for the full article. Further info on the collaboration of Ford Motors and GM with the Nazis can be found at this: https://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-srv/national/daily/nov98/nazicars30.htm Yet more info, including a photo of the expected copper version at this: https://coinquest.com/cgi-bin/cq/coins.pl?coin=18618

Tunisia - 100 Francs 1930

Moneta — Sun, 18 Sep 2022 16:13:09 -0400

by: Moneta

Description: TUNISIA: Ahmad Pasha Bey, 1929-1942, AV 100 francs, 1930//AH1349, KM-257, mintage of only 3,000 pieces, a lovely example! Another gorgeous design by Lucien Georges Bazor. First year of issue (1930 - 1937). 1930, 1933, 1935 had 3k struck each year, intervening years had 33 or 133 struck. Monnaie de Paris (torch) mint. NGC graded MS66, S, ex Choudhury Collection. Steve Album Auction 44, Lot 1541 (Sep '22) $480 +S/H.

Japan - Ei Raku Sen, Nobunaga era coin

Moneta — Sun, 19 Jun 2022 18:46:55 -0400

by: Moneta

Description: See Hartill " Early Japanese Coins" ; p. 24 for the details and story involving the famous Nobunaga. These coins were exported from Ming dynasty China in great quantities during the 16th Century. Oda Nobunaga (織田信長, 23 June 1534 – 21 June 1582) known as "Owari no Otsuke" (Fools of Owari), was a Japanese daimyo and one of the leading figures of the Sengoku period. He is regarded as the first "Great Unifier" of Japan. His action in war gave him the nickname of "Oni Daimyo" (Demon King). This was a very trusted and used coin in the Kanto regions, it is not specifically associated with Nobunaga exclusively, it was used during the 15th - 17th centuries. However, Hartill lists it as 'R' or rare. Nobunaga was head of the very powerful Oda clan, and launched a war against other daimyos to unify Japan in the 1560s. Nobunaga emerged as the most powerful daimyo, overthrowing the nominally ruling shogun Ashikaga Yoshiaki and dissolving the Ashikaga Shogunate in 1573. He conquered most of Honshu island by 1580, and defeated the Ikkō-ikki rebels in the 1580s. Nobunaga's rule was noted for innovative military tactics, fostering of free trade, reforms of Japan's civil government, and the start of the Momoyama historical art period, but also for the brutal suppression of those who refused to cooperate or yield to his demands. Nobunaga was killed in the Honnō-ji Incident in 1582, when his retainer Akechi Mitsuhide ambushed him in Kyoto and forced him to commit seppuku. Nobunaga was succeeded by Toyotomi Hideyoshi, who along with Tokugawa Ieyasu completed his war of unification shortly afterwards. [Wikipedia]

Brazil - 500 Reis 1932, 400th Anniversary of Colonization

Moneta — Sun, 19 Jun 2022 18:00:37 -0400

by: Moneta

Description: Featuring a depiction of Joao Ramalho, was a Portuguese colonist, explorer and adventurer known as the first bandeirante. He lived much of his life among Tupiniquim natives in Brazil after he arrived there in 1515. He even became the leader of an Indian village after he developed a friendship with Tibiriçá (see 100 Reis), an important native chief at the time. Ramalho played an important role in the pacific interaction between the Portuguese and the natives, especially after the arrival of Martim Afonso de Sousa, with whom he became friends after meeting him in São Vicente, the first Portuguese settlement in the Americas. He lived in the village of Santo André da Borda do Campo, which in 1553 was made a town by Tomé de Sousa, then Governor General of Brazil. Ramalho exercised the posts of alderman and alcalde (mayor) in the town.This is the key denomination of the anniversary series with only 34k struck.

Brazil - 100 Reis 1932, 400th Anniversary of Colonization

Moneta — Sun, 19 Jun 2022 17:45:46 -0400

by: Moneta

Description: Obverse features a depiction the bust of Cazique Tibiriçá, a Tupiniquim leader, ally of the Portuguese. He had a role in the founding of the city of São Paulo (1554). Here's more from Wikipedia: Chief Tibiriçá (died 1562) baptized as Martim Afonso was an Amerindian leader who converted to Christianity under the auspices of José de Anchieta. He led the Tupiniquim people of Piratininga and other tribes. His daughter, Bartira, took the name Isabel and married a Portuguese man named João Ramalho. After his conversion to Christianity he became a strategic ally and protector of the Jesuits and the Portuguese; his name appears on letters to Saint Ignatius of Loyola and King João III of Portugal. Tibiriçá chose to side with the Jesuits and against his own brother Piquerobi with help of his nephew and his son-in-law João Ramalho. His granddaughters and their descendants married Portuguese noblemen that led the colonization of São Paulo under Martim Afonso de Sousa.

Brazil - 400 Reis 1932; 400th Anniversary of Colonization

Moneta — Sun, 19 Jun 2022 17:09:42 -0400

by: Moneta

Description: Features a map of South America with the Treaty of Tordesillas line displayed, as well as the Equator. The Treaty of Tordesillas, signed in Tordesillas, Spain on 7 June 1494, and authenticated in Setúbal, Portugal, divided the newly discovered lands outside Europe between the Portuguese Empire and the Spanish Empire (Crown of Castile), along a meridian 370 leagues west of the Cape Verde islands, off the west coast of Africa. That line of demarcation was about halfway between the Cape Verde islands (already Portuguese) and the islands entered by Christopher Columbus on his first voyage (claimed for Castile and León), named in the treaty as Cipangu and Antillia (Cuba and Hispaniola). The lands to the east would belong to Portugal and the lands to the west to Castile, modifying an earlier division proposed by Pope Alexander VI. The treaty was signed by Spain, 2 July 1494, and by Portugal, 5 September 1494. [Wikipedia] The reverse shows the Lusinian Cross, a device associated with the Lusignan Family of France, Armenia, The Knights Templar, and Portugal. Obverse design by Walter R. Toledo; Reverse design w/Lusinian Cross by Basilio Nunes. This coin, fo copper-nickel had 416k struck in 1932.

Yemen - 2 Rials 1969 Moon Landing of Apollo XI

Moneta — Tue, 22 Mar 2022 19:58:17 -0400

by: Moneta

Description: Coat of arms of the Yemen Arab Republic, the nominal worth, date and the countries name in arabic and western style. Obverse Lettering: الجمهورية العربية اليمنية ٢ ريالان 2R 1969-١٩٦٩ YEMEN ARAB REPUBLIC Reverse: Depiction of the moon landing of Apollo II Lettering: APOLLO 11 20 JULY 1969 Numista makes a thing about these concerning the number of stars ( 6 or 7) but anotherl difference is the style of the engraving, thinner letters. rim dots, etc.. The 6 or 7 Star varieties are not described in KM. This example has 6 but I have seen 7 star types.

Yemen - 2 Rials 1969 Moon Landing of Apollo XI

Moneta — Tue, 22 Mar 2022 19:58:17 -0400

by: Moneta

Description: Coat of arms of the Yemen Arab Republic, the nominal worth, date and the countries name in arabic and western style. Obverse Lettering: الجمهورية العربية اليمنية ٢ ريالان 2R 1969-١٩٦٩ YEMEN ARAB REPUBLIC Reverse: Depiction of the moon landing of Apollo II Lettering: APOLLO 11 20 JULY 1969 Numista makes a thing about these concerning the number of stars ( 6 or 7) but the real difference is the style of the engraving, thinner letters. rim dots, etc.. Perhaps the 7 star variety described by Numista doesn't exist, it's not described in KM.

Yemen - 2 Rials 1969 Saturn V; variety 2.2

Moneta — Tue, 22 Mar 2022 19:48:02 -0400

by: Moneta

Description: Moon landing with Saturn V Rocket (Restrike) االجمهورية العربية اليمنية ٢ ريالان 2R 1969-١٩٦٩ YEMEN ARAB REPUBLIC; Reverse Lettering: APOLLO 11 16 JULY 1969 اﭗولو ١١ ١٦ يوليو ١٩٦٩ 1000 struck

Yemen - 2 Rials 1969 Saturn V; variety 2.2

Moneta — Tue, 22 Mar 2022 19:48:02 -0400

Yemen - 2 Rials 1969 Apollo 11 & Saturn V

Moneta — Tue, 22 Mar 2022 19:41:25 -0400

by: Moneta

Description: Moon landing of Apollo XI with Saturn V Rocket Obverse Lettering: الجمهورية العربية اليمنية ٢ ريالان 2R 1969-١٩٦٩ YEMEN ARAB REPUBLIC Reverse Lettering: APOLLO 11 16 JULY 1969 اﭗولو ١١ ١٦ يوليو ١٩٦٩ Edge ESTRIADO VERTICAL FINO

Yemen - 2 Rials 1969 Apollo 11 & Saturn V

Moneta — Tue, 22 Mar 2022 19:41:25 -0400

Fujairah - 10 Riyals 1969 Apollo XI

Moneta — Tue, 22 Mar 2022 18:05:53 -0400

by: Moneta

Description: Apollo 11 was the first spaceflight that landed humans on the Moon. Mission commander Neil Armstrong and pilot Buzz Aldrin landed the lunar module Eagle on July 20, 1969, at 20:18 UTC. Armstrong became the first to step onto the lunar surface six hours later on July 21 at 02:56:15 UTC; Aldrin joined him about 20 minutes later. They spent about two and a quarter hours together outside the spacecraft, and collected 47.5 pounds (21.5 kg) of lunar material for return to Earth. Michael Collins piloted the command module Columbia alone in lunar orbit while they were on the Moon's surface. Armstrong and Aldrin spent just under a day on the lunar surface before rendezvousing with Columbia in lunar orbit.

Fujairah - 10 Riyals 1969 Apollo XI

Moneta — Tue, 22 Mar 2022 18:05:53 -0400

Fujairah - 10 Riyals 1969 Apollo XII

Moneta — Tue, 22 Mar 2022 18:02:30 -0400

by: Moneta

Description: Apollo 12 was the sixth manned flight in the United States Apollo program and the second to land on the Moon (an H type mission). It was launched on November 14, 1969, from the Kennedy Space Center, Florida, four months after Apollo 11. Mission commander Charles "Pete" Conrad and Lunar Module Pilot Alan L. Bean performed just over one day and seven hours of lunar surface activity while Command Module Pilot Richard F. Gordon remained in lunar orbit. The landing site for the mission was located in the southeastern portion of the Ocean of Storms. Unlike the first landing on Apollo 11, Conrad and Bean achieved a precise landing at their expected location, the site of the Surveyor 3 unmanned probe, which had landed on April 20, 1967. They carried the first color television camera to the lunar surface on an Apollo flight, but transmission was lost after Bean accidentally destroyed the camera by pointing it at the Sun. On one of two moonwalks, they visited the Surveyor and removed some parts for return to Earth. The mission ended on November 24 with a successful splashdown. 15 K struck.

Fujairah - 10 Riyals 1970 Apollo XII

Moneta — Tue, 22 Mar 2022 18:02:30 -0400

Fujairah - 10 Riyals 1970 Apollo XIII

Moneta — Tue, 22 Mar 2022 17:59:18 -0400

by: Moneta

Description: Apollo 13 was the seventh manned mission in the American Apollo space program and the third intended to land on the Moon. The craft was launched on April 11, 1970, at 13:13 CST from the Kennedy Space Center, Florida, but the lunar landing was aborted after an oxygen tank exploded two days later, crippling the Service Module (SM) upon which the Command Module (CM) depended. Despite great hardship caused by limited power, loss of cabin heat, shortage of potable water, and the critical need to make makeshift repairs to the carbon dioxide removal system, the crew returned safely to Earth on April 17. The flight passed the far side of the Moon at an altitude of 254 kilometers (137 nautical miles) above the lunar surface, and 400,171 km (248,655 mi) from Earth, a spaceflight record marking the farthest humans have ever traveled from Earth. The mission was commanded by James A. Lovell with John L. "Jack" Swigert as Command Module Pilot and Fred W. Haise as Lunar Module Pilot. Swigert was a late replacement for the original CM pilot Ken Mattingly, who was grounded by the flight surgeon after exposure to German measles. 15 K minted.

Fujairah - 10 Riyals Apollo XIII

Moneta — Tue, 22 Mar 2022 17:59:18 -0400

Fujairah - 10 Riyals 1970 Apollo XIV

Moneta — Tue, 22 Mar 2022 17:55:12 -0400

by: Moneta

Description: Apollo 14 was the eighth manned mission in the United States Apollo program, and the third to land on the Moon. It was the last of the "H missions," targeted landings with two-day stays on the Moon with two lunar EVAs, or moonwalks. 14 K minted. Commander Alan Shepard, Command Module Pilot Stuart Roosa, and Lunar Module Pilot Edgar Mitchell launched on their nine-day mission on January 31, 1971 at 4:04:02 p.m. local time after a 40-minute, 2 second delay due to launch site weather restrictions, the first such delay in the Apollo program. Shepard and Mitchell made their lunar landing on February 5 in the Fra Mauro formation - originally the target of the aborted Apollo 13 mission. During the two lunar EVAs, 42.80 kilograms (94.35 lb) of Moon rocks were collected, and several scientific experiments were performed. Shepard hit two golf balls on the lunar surface with a makeshift club he had brought from Earth. Shepard and Mitchell spent 33½ hours on the Moon, with almost 9½ hours of EVA. In the aftermath of Apollo 13, several modifications were made to the Service Module electrical power system to prevent a repeat of that accident, including redesign of the oxygen tanks and addition of a third tank. While Shepard and Mitchell were on the surface, Roosa remained in lunar orbit aboard the Command/Service Module Kitty Hawk, performing scientific experiments and photographing the Moon, including the landing site of the future Apollo 16 mission. He took several hundred seeds on the mission, many of which were germinated on return, resulting in the so-called Moon trees. Shepard, Roosa, and Mitchell landed in the Pacific Ocean on February 9.

Fujairah - 10 Riyals Apollo XIV

Moneta — Tue, 22 Mar 2022 17:55:12 -0400

Liberia - 25 Cents 1896

Moneta — Tue, 22 Mar 2022 17:15:53 -0400

by: Moneta

Description: Obverse: Liberty Head laureate left over star; Lettering: REPUBLIC OF LIBERIA ★ H Reverse: Value and date within wreath. Lettering: 25 CENTS 1896. Mint: H (Heaton's Mint, Birmingham, United Kingdom)

Argentina - 5 Pesos, Argentino 1886

Moneta — Tue, 22 Mar 2022 15:14:38 -0400

by: Moneta

Description: The flagged arms of Argentina with the country name above and the date below. Lettering: REPUBLICA ARGENTINA * 1883 * ; Engraver: Eugène-André Oudiné Reverse: Capped liberty head. Lettering: LIBERTAD * 5 PESOS * UN ARGENTINO * 9 D FINO * Translation: Liberty 5 Pesos 1 Argentino 9 D Fino; Engraver: Eugène-André Oudiné. Edge Raised letters with stars; Lettering: IGUALDAD * ANTE * LA * LEY * *** Translation: Equality before the law

USA - 1st Spouse 2010 Buchanan's Liberty

Moneta — Tue, 22 Mar 2022 14:57:04 -0400

by: Moneta

Description: Commemorative issue First Spouse series - James Buchanan's Liberty Obverse: Reproduction of the Liberty Head $2.50 Gold Quarter Eagle, (1840 to 1907), originally designed by Christian Gobrecht. Lettering: 1857 1861 IN GOD WE TRUST 2010 W 15TH PRESIDENCY. Engraver: Christian Gobrecht Reverse: James Buchanan during his early youth, when he worked as a bookkeeper in a small country store owned by his family. Lettering: · UNITED STATES OF AMERICA · E PLURIBUS UNUM · $10 · 1/2 Oz. .9999 FINE GOLD Engraver: Joseph Menna Mintage: MS 5,162; Proof: 7,110

Bolivia - 8 Soles 1833, Simon Bolivar

Moneta — Tue, 22 Mar 2022 14:36:42 -0400

by: Moneta

Description: Tree center with 2 alpacas laying below, 6 6-pointed stars on curved line above tree, country name as curved legend on sides and top, date below. Lettering: REPUBLICA BOLIVIANA ·PTS·8S·1833·J·L· Reverse Lettering: LIBRE POR LA CONSTITUCION. BOLIVAR Edge: Reeded & Lettered: AYACUCHO SUCRE 1824

Anguilla - 1967 LIBERTY Dollar on Mexican 5 Pesos

Moneta — Mon, 21 Mar 2022 19:35:55 -0400

by: Moneta

Description: Counter stamped on Mexico 5 Peso KM#467 The so-called Anguilla Liberty Dollar was initiated as a scam by Scott Newhall, then editor of the San Francisco Chronicle. Newhall, on his own, counterstamped between 10 000 and 15 000 mixed coins (mostly silver) with the mark ANGUILLA LIBERTY DOLLAR and JULY 11 1967 before darkening the stamp with ink. Trying to sell his idea to the new provisional government, Newhall failed to have his coin recognized legally and later sold the coins to a coin dealer who kept going with the story to earn money. With the success of these so-called dollars in the coin collectors community, Anguila later issued similar numismatic products in 1968, 1969 and 1970. (Numista). For more details, see A Referendum, a Newspaper Editor & a Coin – The Story of the “Anguilla Liberty Dollar”, Jay Turner, PCGS, 9 April 2020..at this: https://www.pcgs.com/news/story-of-anguilla-liberty-dollar See also: https://scvhistory.com/scvhistory/lw2422.htm

Austria - 25 Schilling 1929

Moneta — Mon, 21 Mar 2022 19:15:11 -0400

by: Moneta

Description: Obverse: An eagle with the Austrian shield on its breast with the country name divided above and below. Lettering: REPUBLIK ÖSTERREICH; Translation: Republic of Austria. Engraver: Arnold Hartig Reverse: Lettering: 25 SCHILLING 19 26, HARTIG

Italy - 20 Lire 1927 R, Lictor w/ Italy seated

Moneta — Mon, 21 Mar 2022 18:21:00 -0400

by: Moneta

Description: Head of King Vittorio Emanuele III facing right; Lettering: VITTORIO.EMANVELE.III.RE. Translation: Victor Emmanuel III King; Engraver: Giuseppe Romagnoli Reverse A Lictor with fasces greeting a seated woman (representing Italy) that has a torch in her right hand and the left arm placed on a shield with Savoy Insigna, with the year in the Fascist Era left of the Lictor, while at the right of Italy is the date and the mintmark. The value is below, in the exergue, together with the names of engraver and author. Lettering: ITALIA A.VI 1927 L.20 G.ROMAGNOLI A.MOTTI INC.