By: Henry M. Smith
Coins can be part of your holiday season in more than one way. They can be part of the festive decorations, or they can be given as gifts. But first it is necessary to know what is available.
In 2008, the Perth Mint sold a silver coin with a seasonal tree painted on it. The Royal Canadian Mint makes snowflake coins in silver, both with and without precious stones adding to the beauty. While these are not the only coins that adequately represent the season enough to be found scattered about a table as décor, they are perhaps among the better know such coins. Some bullion dealers also issue what looks like a coin, but is more properly called a silver round. These privately issued silver rounds are generally one Troy ounce of silver with an inscribed scene of the season. While they may cost more, the true coins are more likely to go higher in value, since many coin collectors will not collect anything without a denomination assigned to it as only a government can do.
If the setting is formal and ornate, consider silver, perhaps encrusted with gems like the Canadian snowflakes, that represent the season. The Canadian snowflakes come with one of two different stones, amethyst and sapphire. If it is a truly formal party one is hosting, these coins may also serve as party favors. Their exquisite beauty and uniqueness as a gift should dazzle the appreciative guests.
Of course the season is a time for gift giving. Consider coins for the coin collector, and also for those who have another hobby alike. For the coin collector, consider quality coins that are current issues, since they may not yet have been obtained. Try not to duplicate what the collector already owns. Coins in proof condition are at the pinnacle of coin quality. They are especially made and show higher than normal relief, and find favor with most collectors. For other hobby enthusiasts, search for current issues of interest. For the automobile enthusiast, look for coins that depict vintage cars. For the bird watcher, consider a coin depicting a rare bird from a far away place. Look at the offerings of the Perth Mint and the New Zealand Mint for ideas.
Many proof quality coins come in boxes that are large enough to be gift wrapped. Buying from a mint or from a dealer may get you the box as well as the coin, but several individuals who auction coins sell the boxes separately. The recommendation is that you buy from a dealer or directly from a mint, and make certain the box is included. Whether the coin is wrapped or placed in tissue and presented in a small gift bag, the box is a nice touch. In gift giving consider the box a must, not an option.
This article is being made available from Black Spaniel Gallery at http://blackspanielgallery.comby the author. Black Spaniel Gallery does not restrict reposting of articles except on sites that engage in illegal activity, sites that contain immoral content, and sites that violate the American Numismatic Association’s Code of Ethics. Links to major English speaking mints are available at Black Spaniel Gallery.
Now just picture the expression when the gift is given!
