In the world of numismatics, the Silver Maple Lead coin is known for its craftsmanship, history, and artistry. With its instantly recognizable maple leaf motif and precious metal purity, this silver bullion coin has become sought-after. Join us as we delve into the design and history of the Silver Maple Leaf, exploring its symbolism, evolution, and undeniable popularity.

The Symbolism of the Maple Leaf Motif

The maple leaf motif featured on the Silver Maple Leaf coin holds deep symbolism that resonates with Canadians and collectors alike. As the national emblem of Canada, the maple leaf represents unity, peace, and tolerance. Walter Ott, the designer, set out to design a coin that would symbolize the beauty of nature and the strength of the Canadian spirit.

Craftsmanship and Precious Metal Purity

This symbolism, combined with the coin’s high level of purity in precious metals, adds to its allure and value. The Silver Maple Leaf is produced with .9999 fine silver, making it one of the purest silver coins in the world. This level of purity not only enhances its aesthetic appeal but also reflects the commitment to quality and excellence that the Royal Canadian Mint upholds.

Evolution of the Design Over Time

The design of the Silver Maple Leaf coin has evolved over time, reflecting both historical influences and modern aesthetics. From its inception in 1988 with the iconic sugar maple leaf design, the coin has undergone several updates and variations, each iteration adding a unique touch to this beloved piece of numismatic art.

The introduction of security features in 2014 such as radial lines, micro-engraved laser marks, and a complex background pattern has not only enhanced the coin’s security but also brought a new level of sophistication to its design.

Popularity and Collectability in the Numismatic World

The Silver Maple Leaf has become a highly sought-after treasure for both seasoned collectors and newcomers to the world of coin collecting. As this coin continues to captivate the hearts of numismatists worldwide, its place in the history of numismatics remains secure.

Whether you are a seasoned collector or just starting out, the Silver Maple Leaf coin is a must-have in any collection. To make this exquisite coin part of your portfolio, contact Manhattan Gold & Silver today.

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• Backdated Gold 1oz Eagle Coins for $70 over gold
• Backdated Silver 1oz Eagle Coins for a $3 premium
• Gold Krugerrand 1oz Coins for a $50 premium per ounce

Today we’ll walk through some of the history and facts of the American Gold Eagle coin.

The Basics of the Gold Eagle Coin

Let’s start by covering the basics of this gold bullion coin.

• Denominations: This coin comes in four denominations. 1 oz, 1/2 oz, 1/4 oz, and 1/10 oz. The face values are $50, $25, $10, and $5 respectively.
• Purity: The American Gold Eagle contains 91.67% gold, with the remainder being composed of copper and silver. This alloy gives the Gold Eagle greater durability and scratch resistance compared to pure 24-karat gold coins.
• Production: These coins are produced across three different locations of the United States Mint: the West Point Mint, the Philadelphia Mint, and the Denver Mint.

YOU MAY BE INTERESTED IN: A Global Tour of Major Mints

About the Design

The front of the Gold Eagle coin features a portrayal of Lady Liberty striding forward while holding a torch in her right hand and an olive branch in her left. This iconic design is known as the “Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle” and was adapted from a design created by Augustus Saint-Gaudens for the $20 Double Eagle gold coin.

The back of the coin shows a family of eagles and was created by sculptor Miley Busiek. This design was specifically crafted for the American Gold Eagle coin series. This Gold Eagle’s design differs slightly from the Silver Eagle.

YOU MAY BE INTERESTED IN: The History of the American Silver Eagle Coin

How to Add the American Gold Eagle Coin to Your Collection

Convinced that you need to add this gold bullion coin to your collection? Start by calling us at Manhattan Gold & Silver to order your Gold Eagle coin today.

The post Get to Know the American Gold Eagle Coin appeared first on Manhattan Gold & Silver.

The Royal Mint’s Ancient Beginnings

Founded in the reign of Alfred the Great in the year 886, the Royal Mint has a storied history of producing coins. Its origins can be traced back to the time when coins were a physical representation of a ruler’s power and authority. The meticulous craftsmanship and artistry of these early coins reflect the importance placed on currency in ancient societies.

The Royal Mint is the oldest company in the United Kingdom and from 1279 to the 1960s, the mint was housed inside the Tower of London.

Innovations in Coinage Production

One of the most significant innovations in coinage production at the Royal Mint is the introduction of cutting-edge technology that has streamlined the process and improved the quality of coins. From the use of state-of-the-art machinery to precision engraving techniques, the Royal Mint continues to push the boundaries of what is possible in coin production.

These advancements have not only increased efficiency but have also allowed for greater creativity and customization in the design of coins. One example of this is the sustainability initiatives the Royal Mint has in place to recover gold from electronic waste.

Notable Coins and Commemorative Releases

The Royal Mint has a rich history of producing coins that commemorate significant events and figures. From special edition coins marking royal weddings and birthdays to coins honoring iconic landmarks and historical moments, the Royal Mint has a wide array of collectible pieces that appeal to both numismatists and casual coin collectors.

Whether it’s a limited edition release or a coin with unique features like colorization or holography, the Royal Mint continues to impress with its innovative approach to coin design. These special coins not only serve as valuable collectibles but also provide a tangible connection to history and culture.

Here are some examples of collectible coins minted by the Royal Mint:

1. Gold Sovereign: The Gold Sovereign is one of the most famous and enduring coins minted by the Royal Mint. First issued in 1489, it has a rich history and is highly sought after by collectors worldwide.
2. Britannia Coins: The Britannia series features designs depicting the iconic figure of Britannia, the personification of the British Isles. These coins are issued in various denominations and are highly collectible due to their changing designs and association with British heritage.
3. Queen’s Beasts Series: This series of coins features designs inspired by the heraldic beasts that stood guard at the coronation of Queen Elizabeth II in 1953. Each coin in the series depicts a different beast, such as the Lion of England, the Unicorn of Scotland, and the Dragon of Wales.
4. Lunar Series: The Lunar series of coins celebrates the Chinese zodiac with designs representing each animal in the zodiac cycle. The Royal Mint has issued coins for various lunar years, each featuring a unique design corresponding to the animal of that year.
5. Great Engravers Series: The Great Engravers series showcases the work of some of the most talented engravers in the history of the Royal Mint. These coins feature classic designs reinterpreted for modern audiences, paying homage to the craftsmanship of the past.
6. Historical Anniversary Coins: The Royal Mint frequently issues coins to commemorate significant historical events and anniversaries. These coins often feature intricate designs and limited mintages, making them highly collectible among history enthusiasts.
7. Special Editions: The Royal Mint periodically releases special edition coins with unique designs or features. These coins may include holographic elements, colorized designs, or other innovative features that appeal to collectors.

Behind the Scenes: The Modern Operations of the Royal Mint

As we unravel the intricacies of the Royal Mint’s operations, we gain insight into the modern techniques and technologies that ensure the Mint’s continued success in creating coins that are not only visually stunning but also highly sought after by collectors and investors alike.

Each step of the coin-making process is carefully monitored and refined to meet the Mint’s exacting standards. Collaborations with renowned artists and designers further enhance the Royal Mint’s reputation for excellence, with each coin bearing the mark of creativity and expertise. By staying at the forefront of technological advancements and artistic ingenuity, the Royal Mint continues to captivate collectors and enthusiasts around the world, solidifying its position as a global leader in numismatic craftsmanship.

If you’re looking to add coins from the Royal Mint to your collection, come see us at Manhattan Gold & Silver in the Diamond District.

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• Gold Krugerrand Coins for a $50 premium per ounce
• Backdated Gold Eagle Coins for $70 over gold
• Backdated Silver Eagle Coins for a $3 premium

We’ve written about the history of the Silver Eagle coin before and today we’re telling you a little bit more about the Krugerrand.

Fast Facts about the Krugerrand

• First minted in 1967
• The world’s first gold bullion coin
• Silver version released in 2017 by Rand Refinery
• Accounted for 90% of the global coin market in 1980
• Banned for import in the United States from 1985-1991 due to South Africa’s apartheid policy
• Over 50 million gold Krugerrands have been sold since the coin’s debut

The Birth of the Krugerrand

The Krugerrand can be traced back to a time when South Africa found itself amid a tumultuous era. As the world grappled with the complexities of the apartheid regime, the South African Mint sought to create a tangible representation of the country’s rich heritage and natural resources. In 1967, after years of meticulous planning and design, the first Krugerrand was minted.

Crafted with precision and symbolism, the Krugerrand was not just a coin but a powerful statement. Its name was inspired by Paul Kruger, the influential figure who served as the President of the South African Republic in the late 19th century. The reverse side of the coin features a springbok, the national animal of South Africa, while the front of the coin proudly displays Paul Kruger himself.

From the moment it entered the market, the Krugerrand quickly gained traction and captured the imaginations of investors worldwide. Its unique design, coupled with its accessibility and affordability, appealed to both experienced collectors and those new to the world of precious metal investments. The Krugerrand became an accessible gateway for individuals to participate in the gold market.

This coin not only revolutionized the investment landscape but also had a significant impact on the South African economy. As demand for the Krugerrand soared, it bolstered South Africa’s gold mining industry, creating jobs and fostering economic growth.

The South African Mint

Founded in 1890, the South African Mint has been responsible for the production of coins that showcase the nation’s rich heritage. Beyond its role in creating legal tender coins, the South African Mint has played a significant cultural role in shaping the nation’s identity. With a commitment to both quality and artistic expression, the mint has continually pushed the boundaries of coin design, capturing the essence of South Africa’s diverse culture and natural beauty.

But it is the production of the Krugerrand that truly puts the South African Mint in the spotlight. The world’s first modern gold bullion coin, the Krugerrand, was first minted in 1967 with the aim of making gold investment more accessible. The South African Mint worked diligently to ensure the coin’s design not only reflected the nation’s history but also appealed to investors worldwide.

Each Krugerrand is crafted with precision and attention to detail, reflecting the mint’s commitment to quality. This coin’s design featuring Kruger and a springbok has remained unchanged since the coin’s inception.

The Economic Impact

The Krugerrand’s significance extends beyond its exquisite design and investment value. Its economic impact on South Africa and the global gold market cannot be overstated. Since its introduction in 1967, the Krugerrand has not only become a symbol of South Africa’s rich gold heritage but has also played a pivotal role in shaping the country’s economy.

The production and export of Krugerrands have contributed significantly to South Africa’s GDP. With its vast reserves of gold, South Africa has long been one of the world’s leading producers, and the Krugerrand has been instrumental in driving the country’s gold mining industry. The coin’s popularity has led to increased demand for South African gold, creating jobs and stimulating economic growth.

Beyond its impact on South Africa, the Krugerrand has transformed the global gold investment landscape. Before its introduction, gold coins were typically sold at a premium, making them inaccessible to everyday investors. By offering the Krugerrand at a lower premium and with a convenient one-ounce size, the South African Mint democratized gold ownership, making it accessible to a wider audience.

Cultural Significance and Global Recognition

The success of the Krugerrand spurred the creation of numerous other gold bullion coins, further expanding the gold investment market. Today, investors around the world recognize the Krugerrand as a trusted and reliable investment vehicle.

Since its introduction, the coin has gained popularity among investors seeking a tangible asset that can withstand economic uncertainties. The Krugerrand’s gold content and purity, combined with its widely recognized design, have made it a preferred choice for those looking to diversify their investment portfolios and protect their wealth.

From its humble beginnings at the South African Mint to its immense economic impact and global recognition, this coin has stood the test of time and continues to allure collectors and savvy resellers alike. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to own a piece of history; start your Krugerrand adventure today call (212) 398-1454 or visit our Manhattan store today to take advantage of gold Krugerrand coins for $50 premium per ounce.

The post The Krugerrand Phenomenon: How South Africa Changed the Gold Investment Landscape appeared first on Manhattan Gold & Silver.

Want to get your hands on a tangible piece of American history that shines brightly through time? In this article, we invite you along on a behind-the-scenes journey to see the process behind the creation of the American Silver Eagle coin. We’ll make stops at every step of production from sourcing the purest silver to the rigorous quality control measures that define this remarkable coin. Whether you are a collector, an investor, or simply enjoy the beauty of silver bullion coins, join us as we traverse the captivating path from mine to mint. Get ready to unlock the secrets behind this treasured piece of American heritage.

Interested in buying one of the brand new 2023 Silver Eagle coins? We have them available for purchase at Manhattan Gold & Silver for just $5 over the price of silver.

How It Came to Be: History of the American Silver Eagle Coin

The Liberty Coin Act was approved by the 99th US Congress in July of 1985. This came to fruition when the United States Mint began releasing Silver Eagle Coins in November 1986. The very first American Silver Eagle coin was struck on October 29, 1986 in San Francisco.

To truly appreciate the beauty and craftsmanship of the American Silver Eagle coin, we must delve into its main ingredient: the purest silver.

At the heart of the sourcing process lies a commitment to ensuring that only the highest quality silver is used. Meticulous attention is paid to the purity and integrity of the silver, with stringent measures in place to guarantee its authenticity. The U.S. Mint certifies the weight, quality, and purity of each 99.9% pure silver coin.

The Art of Minting: Transforming Precious Metal into a Masterpiece

The art of minting is a centuries-old craft that combines tradition, precision, and innovation to turn a mere disc of metal into a treasured keepsake. From the moment the silver arrives at the mint, it is handled with care and reverence.

First, the silver is carefully melted in a furnace, its temperature carefully controlled to ensure a uniform and precise consistency. Once molten, the liquid silver is poured into casts that give birth to blank planchets, the raw canvases awaiting their transformation. These blanks are then subjected to a meticulous pressing process, whereby they are transformed into perfectly round and smooth discs, ready to become American Silver Eagle coins.

A Design Loved by Coin Collectors and the Public

The front of Silver Eagle Coins features the “Walking Liberty” design which was originally used for the US Half Dollar Coin from 1916 to 1947. The popularity of this design made it a clear choice and so it was revived. The front of each silver coin has the year of issuance, as well as “LIBERTY” and “IN GOD WE TRUST.”

In 2021 to celebrate the 35th anniversary of the coin program, the back of the coin was updated with a new design which shows a bald eagle landing on a branch and features the phrases “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA,” “ONE DOLLAR,” “1 OZ FINE SILVER,” as well as “E PLURIBUS UNUM,” in smaller font. This design created by Emily Damstra and engraved by Michael Gaudioso is known as the Type 2 American Eagle Silver Coin design.

“My inspiration for this design grew from a desire to show our national bird,” Damstra said, “With all of the values it embodies—in a unique way that could also convey traits such as diligence, cooperation, care, and protection. For that reason, nest-building came to mind. I also liked the idea of including an oak branch in my design, since the oak is America’s national tree and a symbol of strength.”

The Type 1 American Silver Eagle design was produced from 1986-2021. The back of that coin features a design by John Mercanti, the 12th Chief Engraver of the US Mint. This design is reminiscent of the Great Seal of the United States. The eagle is behind a shield and holds an olive branch in its right talon while the left talon is grasping arrows. Above the eagle are thirteen stars to represent each of the original thirteen colonies. This design is inscribed with the following phrases “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA,” “1 OZ. FINE SILVER~ONE DOLLAR,” and “E PLURIBUS UNUM.”

Which Mint is the Silver Eagle Coin Produced At?

In a previous article, we went on a global tour of mints around the world. The American Silver Eagle coin has been produced at multiple locations of the US Mint. From 1986 to 2000 this bullion coin was produced at the San Francisco Mint. In 1999 and 2000, production shifted to the Philadelphia Mint and the West Point Mint. By 2018, production of the bullion Silver Eagle coins had moved solely to the West Point Mint.

However, in March 2020 the West Point mint was shut down due to an employee testing positive for COVID-19. Concerned about coin production following multiple closings, the US Mint had 240,000 Silver Eagle coins struck at the Philadelphia Mint. These uncirculated American Silver Eagle coins are identical to the ones produced at West Point but are known as Emergency Issues by coin collectors.

How to Add the American Silver Eagle Coin to Your Collection

Join the ranks of those who appreciate the artistry, value, and symbolism of the American Silver Eagle coin. Start your collection today with one of the 2023 Silver Eagle coins by contacting Manhattan Gold & Silver and let the elegance and history of these coins become a part of your own story.

The post The History of the American Silver Eagle Coin appeared first on Manhattan Gold & Silver.

The Jewelled Koi of 2022 is the fifth addition to the highly collectible bullion coins in the Perth Mint Masterpieces series. It follows the 2018 Jewelled Phoenix, 2019 Jewelled Dragon, 2020 Jewelled Tiger, and 2021 Jewelled Horse.

Originally priced at $262,800 AUD, the Jewelled Koi was released as a limited run of eight coins in March of 2022. It quickly sold out, making it even more rare and desirable to collectors.

2022 Jewelled Koi Coin Specifications

On the reverse side, this proof-quality Perth Mint bullion coin displays two 3D golden fish, the Chinese character for “koi,” and an inscription in English reading “The Jewelled Koi.”

The obverse of the coin features an effigy of Her Majesty Elizabeth II, the weight and fineness, the monetary denomination, and the year 2022.

• Only 8 coins minted worldwide
• Face value of $2,500 (AUD)
• Measures 61 mm (2.4 inches) across
• Contains 10 oz of 99.99% pure gold bullion
• Includes 78 Argyle pink diamonds
• Includes 80 white diamonds
• Includes 4 golden diamonds
• Total diamond weight of 2.52 carats
• Displayed in a luxury cabinet-style case

A Unique Gold Coin Collection Addition

According to the Perth Mint, the koi is widely regarded as good luck for wealth, marriage, and fertility. Koi have been carefully bred for many years to produce “living jewel” fish stock.

The restricted production of the Jewelled Koi coin is significant to those interested in Chinese culture, as eight is viewed as the luckiest number by many in that country.

Collectors should also note that this coin is pavé-set with pink diamonds from the now-depleted Argyle mine in Western Australia’s Kimberley region.

Each coin is housed in a luxury double-door cabinet case, festooned with diamonds and 18k gold accents, truly making the Jewelled Koi a coin enthusiast’s delight.

The post The Jewelled Koi: Pure Gold Coin Makes a Splash appeared first on Manhattan Gold & Silver.

We’ll explain how coin hunting works.

How Does Coin Hunting Work?

Coin hunting works like this for most hobbyists: You go to the bank, buy rolls of coins and then sort through them, searching for silver or collectible coins. If you find valuable coins, you can choose to recycle or auction them off.

Old Coins That Contain Silver

Here are a few old coin types you can expect to contain silver:

• 1965— 1970 Kennedy Half Dollars: Coins minted in this era contain 40% silver. Each weigh 11.5 grams, which means that each Kennedy half dollar contains 4.6 grams of silver, worth $3.68 at current trading prices.
• Nickels: Nickels minted late in World War II between 1942 and 1945, also known as “silver war nickels”, were made of alloys that contained up to 35% silver. Each of these coins weighs 5 grams, which means they contain around 1.75 grams of silver, worth $1.40
• Dimes: If they were made between 1946 and 1964, they contain 90% silver. Each weighs 2.5 grams, so this means they have 2.25 grams of silver, worth $1.80

Silver coins aren’t the only types of coins you should be looking for though. Study up on collectible coins and stay on the lookout. One lucky coin hunter, Megan Green, found an incredibly valuable penny: a 1969—S Doubled Die Obverse, which was assigned a value of $24,000 by the Professional Coin Grading Service (PCGS). However, it is possible one in better condition than Green’s coin could go for $75,000 or more.

Recycle Your Silver Scrap and Coins At A Precious Metals Refiner

If you’re lucky enough to find recyclable silver coins, be sure to consider exchanging them at a precious metals refiner like Manhattan Gold & Silver. We make it easy for you to sell your silver scrap and coins.

The post What Is Coin Hunting? appeared first on Manhattan Gold & Silver.

Today, we’ll discuss whether it is best to buy silver coins or bars should you decide to invest. To start, we’ll explain what these forms of bullion are and how they differ.

The Difference Between Silver Bars & Coins

You might think the only difference between silver coins and bars is their appearance, but you’d be mistaken. Coins and bars are not only different in their physical shape, but their purpose is also unique.

Coins are legal-tender money. On the other hand, bars are manufactured solely for their merits as bullion. The government does not legally classify bars as currency.

Advantages of Silver Coins

Coins have several advantages over bars:

1. Coins are legal tender and come with a guarantee of quality from the government, which means they have more recognition in the market. This makes them easy to liquidate.
2. Coins are much easier to “barter” or trade-off during a crisis than bars, according to silver expert David Morgan.

Another potential advantage is that some coins that are considered numismatic may be worth more than their precious metal content. To find out why let’s quickly go over the difference between numismatic and bullion coins.

Numismatic Coins Vs. Bullion Coins

Bullion Coins

Bullion coins are purchased mainly as an investment and are manufactured year-to-year. They are considered to be a form of currency, an asset with a defined value that remains consistent for the most part. Examples of coins in this category include:

• S. Gold Eagles
• S. Silver Eagles
• Canadian Silver Maples
• South African Krugerrands
• 90% Junk Silver (pre-1965 quarters, dimes, half-dollars, etc.)

Numismatic Coins

Rare or collectible coins are known as numismatic coins. Unlike bullion coins, the value of a numismatic coin is influenced greatly by its rarity and condition, not just its precious metal content. If a numismatic coin is rare and in great condition, it can often trade over the spot price of the precious metal it contains.

For example, a silver numismatic coin might have the same amount of precious metal content as a silver bullion coin, but its collectible value may allow it to sell at a higher price.

Examples of numismatic coins include:

• Peace Silver Dollars
• British Sovereigns
• Swiss 20 Francs
• Pre-1933 $20, $10 Eagle coins

However, before buying a numismatic coin as an investment, consider what precious metals broker Don Stott once said, “Even though there are those who use numismatic coins as a store of wealth, their value is not always associated with the bullion spot price. Only the most experienced collectors are successful at employing this tactic.”

One potential disadvantage to note is that coins often come with a higher premium than bars.

Pros and Cons of Silver Bars

Bars come with two key benefits:

1. Bullion bars are compact, stackable, and easy to store.
2. Bars have the lowest premium over spot price.

Although bars may have the best value, a disadvantage could be that they are harder to liquidate than coins.

The Right Choice Varies

Whether or not silver coins or bars are better depends on who you are as an investor. Smaller investors may have more use for collectible, legal tender assets like coins while large investors might not need collectible assets – they need silver that can be purchased at a lower premium over the spot price.

Regardless of whether you’ll be buying silver bars or coins, it’s important to buy your assets from a trusted supplier. Consider using a reputable precious metals refiner like Manhattan Gold & Silver that sells bullion at fair prices and offers storage solutions to keep your investments safe.

The post Silver Bars Vs. Coins: Which Is The Best Investment? appeared first on Manhattan Gold & Silver.

There are also many ways to invest in gold: shares, certificates, exchange-traded funds and more. None of those, however, have the appeal of owning physical gold. With the help of a reputable coin dealer, you can purchase bullion coins at fair market prices.

Investing in gold coins and collecting gold coins, however, are two different things. While investors generally invest in bullion coins as a hedge against the economy, collectors tend to buy collectible coins for their rarity. It’s precisely that aesthetic and historical value that can spell trouble for collectible coins—and open the door for fraud.

“Because there’s so much subjectivity in the value of coins, it’s always ripe for deception,” Dama Brown, regional director of the Federal Trade Commission’s (FTC) southwest division, told AARP The Magazine. And the people most at risk for coin scams, unfortunately, are older Americans. But what makes them so particularly susceptible?

The ACP calls it age-associated financial vulnerability, which affects older adult’s ability to manage personal finances. They may also be less knowledgeable of modern-day scams and be more trusting. And the fact that seniors are more likely to have nest eggs, own their homes, have excellent credit and be looking for safe investments, make them ideal marks for con artists.

What are some of the most prevalent coin scams? According to The Street, some of the most damaging gold coin scams include:

Most Common Gold Coin Scams

The Coin Grading Scam – Coin grade is what indicates a coin’s condition. While coins that are certified 70 are deemed virtually irreplaceable, coins certified MS70 have never been handled, are considered in “mint state” and even more valuable.

The problem is the difference may be hard to tell, leading unsuspecting coin buyers to overpay by hundreds of dollars.

The Packaging Trick – The packaging may look good, but it can also act as a barrier. Shady dealers may use holders and packaging to prevent people from inspecting their coins. What looks like a pure gold coin behind layers of plastic may actually be a gold-copper alloy coin.

The Fake Coin – By fake, we don’t mean counterfeit gold, but the trafficking of coins that don’t even exist. Many people are fearful of holding a large amount of physical gold in their homes. A con artist will offer to store your coins for you (and charge a fee)—except there never were any gold coins. Seniors are especially vulnerable to these scams perpetrated over the phone.

Tips for Buying Gold Coins

Luckily, avoiding gold coin scams is easy. We recommend these tips to anyone purchasing gold coins:

1. Don’t believe everything you hear. If a dealer tells you they will buy back your coins at more than what you paid, or that grading is guaranteed, they’re not being truthful.
2. Get a second opinion. This is especially true when it comes to the grade and value of your coins. Before you even purchase a coin, make sure you understand the dealer’s return and refund policy.
3. Be wary of grading certificates and slabs. Your best bet is to check your coin’s grade with an independent source.
4. Take possession of your coins. If you don’t, you may never know if they actually exist.

The best thing you can do to avoid falling prey to a gold coin scam is to buy from a reputable dealer. How long has the company been in business? Are they a member of a professional organization? Check out their credentials–don’t just trust their claims.

And above all, don’t succumb to high-pressure sales tactics. If something’s too good to be true, it probably is.

The post Be Aware of Gold Coin Scams Targeting Seniors appeared first on Manhattan Gold & Silver.

The Gold America Buffalo Coin was introduced under the Presidential $1 Coin Act of 2005. The goal of the act was “to revitalize the design of United States coins and return circulating coinage to its position as an object of aesthetic beauty in its own right.”

Presidential $1 Coin Act of 2005

Under Title II of the act, the U.S. Mint began striking and issuing the one-ounce, 24-karat Gold American Buffalo Coin with a face value of $50. With a mintage limit of 300,000 coins, the Gold American Buffalo Coin became the first 24-karat gold coin produced by the United States made available to the public.

The coin was created to specifically compete with 24-karat gold coins that were dominating the foreign bullion market. Before its issue in 2006, the only option for collectors and investors had been the Gold American Eagle, which is only 91.67% gold.

The American Buffalo was an immediate hit, causing its value to skyrocket in a very short period of time. In fact, the coin is still in high demand every year it is minted.

The Gold American Buffalo Design

The Gold American Buffalo Coin was based on the Buffalo nickel, a copper-nickel five-cent piece that was struck and issued by the Mint from 1913 to 1938. It was designed by sculptor James Earle Fraser, whose most famous works include End of the Trail sculpture and the Buffalo nickel.

The front of the coin features the profile of a Native American man. It also includes the inscription of the year minted, and the word “LIBERTY.” The Native American on the coin is not a known person, but is described instead as having been inspired by several different Native American figures.

The reverse side, meanwhile, features a buffalo standing on a mound with its head and tail “pressing” against the edges of the coin. According to the U.S. Mint, the Buffalo is recalling the “pioneering spirit of the Nation’s westward expansion.”

Fraser claimed that the bison on the coin was actually an American bison from the Bronx Zoo named Black Diamond. His account, however, has been disputed. For one, Black Diamond was housed at the Central Park Zoo at the time. Some experts also point out that the placement of Black Diamond’s horns differed from the ones on the bison featured on the coin.

The Gold American Buffalo Coins, which are minted at the West Point, New York Mint, is still considered one of the most beautiful coins ever produced by the U.S. Mint. You can check the price of our Gold American Buffalo Coin here.

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