Set Description
This collection started with my fascination in the imagery and beauty of "Lady Liberty" on early US coinage. This resulted in a nearly complete US coinage type set based on “Lady Liberty”. Looking at world coinage as a means to expand my collection, I discovered coins featuring France's "Marianne" and Great Britain's "Britannia". The symbolism found in these national personifications inspires whole nations towards the ideals of freedom and liberty.
While investigating the allegories portrayed on my coins, I became aware of coins commemorating real women who have influenced the societies in which they lived. Now my collection featuring allegorical national personifications includes coins depicting monarchal, athletic, and historical women who inspire us towards great ideals. This collection is a tribute to those women.
This set is divided by markers into six categories:
1.Allegorical:Coins displaying allegorical representations.
2.Monarchal:Coins featuring the bust of their nation’s queen.
3.Athletic:Coins with athletic themes where I will highlight a female athlete that is representative of the sport portrayed on the coin.
4.Historical:Coins commemorating women who have had a significant impact on history.
5.General:Coins of a general nature that represents all women within the theme of the coin.
6.My special ladies:These coins represent special ladies in my life.
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I am honored to have this set named the “Most Creative” signature set in 2008. In a way by naming my set for this award, NGC is acknowledging the significant role of women in world history. That said I sincerely hope you enjoy perusing my set.
The following paragraph comprises of the judge’s comments relating to my set:
This fascinating theme collection is built around images of women on coins from around the world. Allegorical personifications include images of the USA's Liberty, France's Marianne and the United Kingdom's Britannia, as well as others. A number of important women in history are also to be found. These range from figures of the past, such as Dolley Madison, to more recent celebrities such as Diana, Princess of Wales.
Set Goals
Allegorical, monarchal, athletic, and historical women that inspire us and appear on coinage from around the world.
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| ****INSPIRATIONAL**** *****ALLEGORIES***** |
United States
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50C 1831
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NGC MS PrAg
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COINS FROM AROUND THE WORLD FEATURING NATIONAL PERSONIFICATIONS AND ALLEGORIES - One of many things I enjoy about numismatics is the use of allegorical designs on the coinage of western nations. Of particular interest is the use of ancient Greek and Roman mythology to represent western philosophies on modern coins. Another point of interest is that most national personifications employ feminine images, rather than masculine ones. These facts are my “inspiration” for creating this signature set entitled “Inspirational Ladies”.
In this section of the set, you will find coins that feature the goddesses Libertas (Lady Liberty), Britannia, Minerva, Nike, Lustitia (Roman goddess of justice), and Erato (one of nine daughters of Zeus called a muse). National personifications include Helvetia, Marianne, Fjallkonan, and Italia.
To mark this section of my collection, I have chosen three historical pictures, two of which feature Columbia. Columbia is a feminine personification meaning “the land of Columbus or the land Columbus discovered”. The first picture is a patriotic poster from World War 1 that features Columbia dressed in the stars and stripes. The other picture features Columbia with a warship bonnet, signifying the United States as an emerging world power in 1901.
The third picture, a Russian poster portrays an alliance or “triple entente” between Russia, France, and Great Britain during World War 1. Featured on the poster are “Marianne”, “Mother Russia”, and “Britannia”.
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| Industry and Arts |
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57mm 1876 J-CM-11 WM US CENTENNIAL EXPOSITION
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NGC MS 61
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This medal is an 1876 Philadelphia Centennial Exposition Medal designed by William Barber.
To help finance the exposition, Congress authorized the striking of commemorative medals in June of 1874. Overall, there were two different medals, each struck in a variety of metallic compositions. One medal was 38mm in diameter and the other 57mm. My Coin of the Month is the 57mm Julian CM-11 medal struck in white metal and graded MS-61 by NGC. White metal is an alloy composed of 82 parts tin, 12 parts antimony, and 6 parts copper. Mintages for the 57mm medal include a unique gold medal, nine silver medals, 7000 bronze medals, 2100 gilded copper medals, and 583 white metal medals. The original issue price for the 57mm medals ranged between two and five dollars.
Amidst a backdrop of economic depression, political scandal (William Magear Boss Tweed), and widespread tent meetings held by evangelist Dwight L Moody, America was celebrating 100 years of independence. Other events influencing American culture in 1876 were Custers defeat at the Battle of Little Bighorn, the Transcontinental Express traversing the North American continent in 83 hours and 39 minutes, Colorados admission to the Union as the 38th state, and the forming of baseballs National League.
To celebrate her centennial birthday on a grand scale, America was throwing the world a party by hosting her first World Exposition. Held at Fairmount Park, the exposition covered 285 acres with 250 pavilions. There were 37 nations represented and over nine million people attending the exposition held from May 10, 1876 to November 10, 1876. Of certainty, the 1876 Philadelphia Centennial Exposition lived up to its billing and did not disappoint.
On display for the entire world to see, representing Americas ascendency in mechanization was the telephone, the typewriter, and the Corliss Steam engine that provided power for virtually all the exhibits. These innovations in technology developed by American inventors ushered in a gilded age of industrialization from which grew a prosperous American middle class.
This then is where my medal so rich in history and allegorical content comes into play. Through the allegories represented on my medal, America was showing the world how liberty and freedom maximize human innovation and ingenuity to provide a prosperous life for the most people within a society. Furthermore, where the human spirit is free from the shackles of tyranny, liberty and freedom provides the fertile ground in which the arts thrive and grow. Among American arts is the literary art masterpiece, The Adventures of Tom Sawyer written by Mark Twain and published in 1876.
The reverse of my medal illustrates Lady Liberty rising from a kneeling position with a drawn sword preparing for battle against the enemies of liberty. Her left arm reaches towards a glory of thirteen stars in which her gaze is fixated. From the united circle of stars representing the thirteen colonies, Lady Liberty receives her strength and resolve. Underneath Liberty is the date 1776 representing the year of our Declaration of Independence. Around the perimeter of the reverse are the words of Virginian Richard Lee to the Second Continental Congress on June 7, 1776. These United Colonies are, and of right ought to be, Free and Independent States.
Lady Liberty with her sword sheathed is the central image on the obverse of my medal. Resting against Lady Libertys left leg is a Union Shield representing the United States. Kneeling to Lady Libertys left is a feminine allegorical representation with a palette of paints at her feet representing the arts. Kneeling to Lady Libertys right is another feminine representation. With an anvil at her side, she is illustrated holding a hammer and a large gear to represent industry. Together Lady Liberty is crowning Arts and Industry with laurel wreaths to represent victory, fame, and achievement. Etched on the platform of which Lady Liberty is standing is the date 1876. Around the perimeter are the words, In Commemoration of the Hundredth Anniversary of American Independence. Thus, this medal represents the first 100 years of American history by first illustrating Americas fight to obtain liberty and 100 years later reaping the rewards of liberty.
In summary, I wish I could say that America had always lived up to her promise of liberty. Yet in 1876, the newly freed slaves did not fully enjoy the guarantees of Liberty. Neither did Native Americans who were herded into reservations. In fact, their internment led to the death of George Custer at the early age of 36. Nevertheless, in spite of these wrinkles in American history, nothing takes away from the truth of Liberty. Therefore, no matter where in the world Liberty is espoused, people prosper. This then is not about governments or governmental systems, its not about money either, but about individual liberty and the right of self-determination. Liberty then is precious and needs protection because the enemies to liberty are always on the prowl to enslave people under the yoke of tyranny, be they governments, religions, or dictators.
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| Three Graces |
Great Britain
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Copper Crown 1879 Dated INA Retro Issue X#81b
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PCGS PF 66
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For their 2001 auction, Spink & Sons commissioned INA ltd of Birmingham to strike various fantasy coins. Many of these fantasy coins featured designs that were never officially issued by any governmental entity. My medal is designed by Donald Golder and features an image of Queen Victoria on the obverse and the Three Graces on the reverse. This crown-sized (38mm) 1879 dated medal was struck in silver and bronze. The bronze version has a Krause catalog number of X#81a and a mintage of 790.
No crowns were officially issued by the UK in 1879. Furthermore, the likeness of Queen Victoria on my medal has never been used on a coin. It has, however, been used on a postage stamp. The 1840 one penny stamp, nicknamed "Penny Black," is the world's first adhesive postage stamp. It features a left-facing profile bust of Queen Victoria. The medal's obverse legend combined with the reverse translated from Latin reads, "Victoria by God's grace makes them become one." The Three Graces on the reverse reinterpreted from Greek mythology by the original engraver, William Wyon, represent Ireland, England, and Scotland.
The 1801 "Act of the Union" united Great Britain (England and Scotland) and Ireland under the United Kingdom. William Wyon's Three Graces was designed to appeal to a sense of national pride after the hard times relating to the UK's defeat of Napoleon. His pattern coin dating 1817 was never issued. With only 50 known patterns, this coin is occasionally offered at auction in the six figures. Check out this beauty offered by Heritage. https://coins.ha.com/itm/great-britain/great-britain-george-iii-silver-proof-pattern-three-graces-crown-1817-pr65-ngc-/a/3096-30318.s?
Though my fantasy coin isn't an exact replica of the original pattern, the imagery is the same. Instead of a rudder and palm frond, my medal displays a ship on the waters to allegorize English dominance over the seas. Instead of using a lyre to represent Ireland, this fantasy coin uses a shamrock.
In Greek mythology, the Three Charites or Graces were generally known for fertility. They are believed to be the daughters of Zeus and Hera. One is named Aglaia for Brightness, another is named Euphrosyne for Joyfulness, and the third Thalia for Bloom.
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| Lady Liberty, Miss Anna W. Williams |
United States
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$1 1896
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PCGS MS 65
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In anticipation of the return of the silver dollar as a circulating coin, Mint Director Henry Linderman hired George T. Morgan in 1876 as an assistant engraver for the express purpose of designing a new silver dollar. Shortly thereafter, Morgan finished the reverse design, but the obverse design of the new dollar would be quite another issue. Then later in 1876 through a common friend, Thomas Eakins, Morgan found in the facial profile of Miss Anna W. Williams the perfect representation of the “Goddess of Liberty” for his dollar coin.
Miss Anna Williams, an art student in Philadelphia, was a modest 18-year-old girl. She did not crave notoriety or fame, but rather desired to pursue her passion as a schoolteacher in relative obscurity. When first asked to model for Morgan, she soundly refused. Through the encouragement of her friend Thomas Eakins, she finally agreed to model for Morgan under the stipulation that her identity remained anonymous. The official cover story would be that Morgan got the inspiration for his dollar from a Greek figure at the Philadelphia Academy of Art.
With final approval for the silver dollar design and passage of the Bland-Allison Act occurring on the same day, minting of the Morgan Dollar began in 1878. Unfortunately, the secret identity of “Lady Liberty” on the Morgan Dollar would be short-lived and in the summer of 1879, a Philadelphia newspaper revealed Anna Williams identity and dubbed her “The Silver Dollar Girl”.
This in turn brought a deluge of unwanted attention to Miss Anna W. Williams, then a schoolteacher at The House of Refuge. Fortunately, for Anna, this sudden surge of notoriety eventually subsided. However, in years to follow, Anna would reappear in the limelight and her decision to model for Morgan would vex her for the rest of her life.
In 1891, Anna Williams accepted a $60/month offer as a teacher of kindergarten philosophy at the Girl’s Normal School. In spite of the unwanted publicity as “The Silver Dollar Girl”, Anna became an accomplished teacher in her own rite. Anna’s literary talents allowed her to publish numerous articles in current periodicals and win an award for the best original essay on psychology. Consequently, this talent called her to several cities where she gave lectures on the topic of kindergarten teaching. Later Anna became the supervisor of kindergartens in Philadelphia, a position she held for more than 25 years until her retirement. Anna rarely granted interviews, but when she did, she used her notoriety as Morgan’s “Goddess of Liberty” as an opportunity to talk about the issues with which she was passionate.
Anna returned to the limelight in 1892 when she found herself and a print of her bust the subject of an article in “The Ladies Home Journal”. In 1896, Anna announced her engagement to be married. That announcement in turn was reprinted in the May 1896 issue of the ANA journal, “The Numismatist”. For whatever reason, the engagement broke off and Anna never married. While there are several theories as to why this occurred, I believe the excessive publicity surrounding the engagement eventually doomed it.
The broken engagement represents a sad chapter in Anna’s life and her constant struggle for any sense of normalcy. This in turn is why I choose the 1896 Morgan Dollar to represent Miss Anna W. William’s story. Sometimes I wonder if every time Anna handled one of these coins, it served as a constant reminder to her. Fortunately, for her, Morgan Dollars in Philadelphia circulated about as much as dollar coins do today.
Always the schoolteacher, Anna even in retirement advocated for compulsory kindergarten education for all students in Philadelphia. Then on April 17, 1926, Anna Willis Williams died in her hometown of Philadelphia at the age of 68. Anna’s obituary also appeared in the May 1926 issue of “The Numismatist”.
Surprisingly, with very little evidence to the contrary, there is still some speculation as to the identity of Lady Liberty on the Morgan Dollar. A letter sent from Morgan’s daughter to her daughter is the primary reason for doubt. In that letter Morgan’s daughter states, “Father always said no matter how many models posed for him that he never bid any, and that he made up the obverse himself”. However, from Anna’s perspective, she is quoted describing her role as Lady Liberty as, “an incident of my youth”. I think regardless of what happened, Morgan was going to keep up his end of the anonymity bargain, and the model for the Morgan Dollar is indeed that of Anna W. Williams. I am also posting a photo collage of a print I purchased on ebid alongside the obverse of the 1896 Morgan Dollar from my collection. For me this is the primary piece of evidence to the identity controversy concerning the Morgan dollar, as the resemblance is unmistakable.
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| Lady Liberty |
United States
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50C 1904 USA-PHIL
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NGC PF 62
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The Philippines were acquired by the United States in 1899 as part of a treaty with Spain ending the Spanish-American War. In 1901, the military government gave way to a civilian administration with a need for new coinage. Starting in 1903 and minted at Philadelphia and San Francisco, coins for the fledgling Philippine government were issued in denominations of 1 peso and 50, 20, 10, 5, 1, ½ centavos, whereas 100 centavos are equal to 1 peso.
The obverse of this PF-62 1904, 50 Centavo coin features “Lady Liberty” striking an anvil with a hammer symbolizing the work done by the United States in establishing a progressive Philippines. The model for Lady Liberty used on this coin may have been Blanca, the daughter of the coins’ designer Melecio Figueroa. The erupting volcano in the background of the coins’ obverse is Mt. Mayon and the reverse design shows an eagle perched on a union shield representing the arms of the US Territories.
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| Lady Liberty/Birth of the Republic |
PORTUGAL 1836 TO DATE
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ESCUDO 1910 BIRTH OF THE REPUBLIC
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NGC AU 58
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| Allegorical |
ITALY
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10C 1911R KINGDOM ANNIVERSARY
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NGC MS 63 BN
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| Columbia Panama Canal Opening |
United States
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SC$1 1914 HK-398 PANAMA CANAL COMPLETION #11138 Jeff Shevlin Coll.
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NGC MS 62
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How did a medal I never knew existed become something I had to have in less than two months? Several improbable events, that’s how.
The improbable events started at the end of November 2022 as my wife, and I prepared to go on a cruise. Our 16-day cruise began in Los Angeles and ended almost 4,700 miles away in Miami through the Panama Canal. At the time, I was excited about transiting the Panama Canal. But I was especially thrilled to spend 16 days with my daughter, her husband, and my 17-month-old grandson.
I was all in on the canal when we finally reached Panama City. I gobbled up as much information about the canal as possible. I took dozens of pictures of one of the seven engineering wonders of the world. To this day, I’m soaking up all things Panama Canal. I even have a wallpaper image of the canal on my laptop!
When I got home, the most improbable event of all occurred. A few years ago, I decided to let my membership in the Central States Numismatic Society lapse in favor of PAN. When I went to the post office to pick up the mail, I noticed a large envelope with a return address to CSNS. Inside the envelope was their newly reformatted winter 2023 copy of “The Centinel” and a note asking me to come back. As an aside, I like “The Centinel’s” new format. At any rate, The Centinel had an article entitled “Commemorating the Big Ditch” by Juan L. Riera. The article described the opening of the Panama Canal on August 15, 1914, and the so-called dollar struck to commemorate it.
Do any of you have that “gotta have” coin for your collection on your want list? After reading the article, this so-called dollar (HK-398) immediately went from never heard of to first on my want list of “gotta have” pieces for my collection. I immediately went surfing on the internet to find my new must-have. I finally settled on a nice medal from a dealer I had previously dealt with. Having a medal available in the marketplace for me to purchase is the last improbable event in a long series of incredible events.
Fortunately, this medal was reasonably priced and now stands as the perfect addendum to a most memorable cruise! Add to the fact that this medal (1 of 50,000 serialized medals) was carried aboard the SS Cristobal. The Cristobal was the first ship to transit the Panama Canal on August 3, 1914. At the official opening of the canal on August 15, 1914, this medal was given to 200 dignitaries aboard the SS Ancon. The Ancon is the first official ship to transit the Panama Canal. Though this medal is 1 of 50,000, the dealer who sold me this medal estimates that only a couple hundred examples of it survive today. Perhaps the low survival rate can be attributed to the high international appeal of this medal scattered around the world.
This I do know that my medal graded MS-62 by NGC is among the nicer surviving examples. The design of the Panama Canal completion medal was recommended to the John F. Newman Co. of New York (manufacturer of the Panama Canal Completion medal) by Miss Elizabeth Rodman, cousin of Capt. Hugh Rodman, U.S.N., Supt. of Transportation, Canal Zone. Though the Panama Canal completion medal was copyrighted in 1913, the official issuing date of the medal is recognized as 1914.
This medal measures 38mm in diameter and is struck in bronze. The serial number marked on the reverse is 11138. The obverse of the medal features a woman standing on the prow of a ship transiting the Panama Canal. Her arms are outstretched, holding a ribbon. Under her hands are two globes, the eastern hemisphere on her right and the Western hemisphere on her left. The inscription on the ribbon, translated from Latin, is “Columbia unites the oceans.” The woman has rays of light emanating from her head. There is a banner over her head with the motto boldly proclaiming, “Prosperity to all Nations.” Though I can not find any documentation of the fact, I believe the woman is a personification of Columbia.
The reverse features an inscription under the seal of the Panama Canal Zone. It reads: Commemorating the opening of The Panama Canal to the Commerce of the World Copyrighted and Bearing A Serial number is one of 50000 Carried on the Vessel making the First Passage Through the Panama Canal as Authenticated in Certificate Signed by (signed) Geo. W. Goethals Chief Engineer and Chairman lsthmian Canal Commission.
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| Effigy of the Republic |
PORTUGAL 1836 TO DATE
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50C 1916
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NGC MS 64
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| Italia |
ITALY
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5C 1918R
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NGC MS 64 BN
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Female standing on prow -
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| Liberty/Freedom |
ITALY
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20C 1921R
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NGC MS 63
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| Marianne |
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SILVER 1923-DATED FRANCE INDUSTRIAL SOCIETY MR. J. FRAZER (47.5g 44.9mm)
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NGC MEDAL MS 62
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Created by H. Dubois
Founded in 1884, the Industrial Society of Eastern was first selfless support center for study and promotion of technical, social progress and support the creation of Grandes Ecoles in Nancy.
By awarding medals for a century, the SIE celebrates the progress of the business and the work of women and men in our area, all artisans of our economy.
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| Helvetia |
SWITZERLAND CONFEDERATION
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G20F 1903B Switzerlnd
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NGC MS 64
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This coin known as the Vreneli or Helvetia is a major departure from the previous 20 Francs coin featuring a representation of Lady Liberty. While the personification of Vreneli also represents liberty, I think the name Vreneli captures more of the heart and soul of the Swiss people. To make my point, the name Vreneli may also represent a character named Vreneli in the story of Swiss folk hero William Tell. The name Vreneli could also be a derivative of the word Verena which is a female effigy representing the Confederation of Switzerland. The name Helvetia comes from an ancient group of Celtic people called the Helvetii and was the name given to the region by the Romans in 58 BC. Helvetia has since evolved into the female personification of Switzerland she is today. Even the name Swiss Miss is used to characterize this coin because of the apparent youthfulness of the women featured on the obverse representing the free and independent spirit of the Swiss people.
The design for this coin came by means of a contest won by Fritz Landry whose first initial and last name appear on the coins obverse. A young woman named Francoise Engli serves as the model for Vreneli.
With the Swiss Alps as a backdrop, the obverse of this coin features the bust of a young woman with plaited hair wearing a garland of edelweiss flowers around her neck. The name Helvetia appears over the top of the mountains. The reverse features a Swiss Cross on an ornate shield tied with a ribbon to an oak branch behind it. The shield and oak branch separate the value of the coin 20 with the denomination FR for Francs. The date and mintmark appear on the bottom rim of the coins reverse. The edge of this coin features 22 stars in relief.
Lending to the charm of this coin is the legend of the edelweiss flower that grows in the harsh environment of the Alps. Protected by gnomes, the beautiful ice queen with a heart as cold as her name, sings her beautiful song from high atop the Swiss Alps. Lured by her lovely voice, shepherds would climb the mountains to her abode. Upon their arrival, the ice queen toyed with their hearts until she was bored with them at which point the gnomes tossed them from the mountains unto their death. This went on for many years until the ice queen met a man she fell in love with. Unfortunately, this did not sit well with the gnomes who feared that their immortal ice queen would marry a mortal man. Filled with jealousy the gnomes conspired to toss her beloved off the mountain. Hurtling to his death in the valley below, his heart burst asunder in full view of the ice queen. Seeing this, the ice queen whose icy heart was melting, shed one tear that fell from her cheek and onto the ground turning into an edelweiss flower. Later male suitors in order to show their love would climb dangerous peaks in search of the edelweiss flower. The edelweiss flower is then a symbol of love, bravery, strength, and dedication.
In the year 1291 AD, three cantons in the heart of todays Switzerland united to form the Old Swiss Confederacy. As a comparison, cantons in Switzerland are much like states in the United States. Among the three original cantons is the Canton of Schwyz. Today the Swiss flag of a white cross against a red background is an adaptation of the coat of arms for the Canton of Schwyz. Used originally to identify soldiers from different cantons under a common banner, the flag of the Swiss Army became the flag and national identity of Switzerland after a brief civil war in 1840. Thus, the reverse of this coin featuring a Swiss Cross on an ornate shield represents the unity of the cantons. That shield tied by ribbons onto an oak branch then represents the strength and independence of the Swiss Confederation.
In 1798, the Revolutionary French Army defeated the Old Swiss Confederation. The French then established the Helvetian Republic abolishing the cantons and imposing a new centralized government. This government was very unpopular with the Swiss people because it abolished hundreds of years of tradition. This led to a compromise in 1803 and the establishing of the Swiss Confederation restoring cantonal autonomy to 19 cantons. After the final defeat of Napoleon, the Congress of Vienna in 1815 fully restored Swiss autonomy, established 22 cantons, and guaranteed Swiss neutrality. Eventually this loose confederation of cantons gave way in 1848 to a new federal Constitution modeled after the United States Constitution. Many of the principles of this constitution have been in force ever since. Thus, while US coins displaying 13 stars represents the 13 original colonies, the 22 stars in raised relief on the edge of this coin represents the 22 cantons of the 1815 Swiss Confederation.
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| Nike (Victory) |
United States
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50C 1934 TEXAS
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NGC MS 64
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| Helvetia |
SWITZERLAND CONFEDERATION
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5F 1936B Switzerlnd ARMAMENT FUND
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PCGS MS 65
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| The Goddess of Music |
United States
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50C 1936 S CINCINNATI
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NGC MS 64
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There are times in our lives when we derive inspiration from a song or a poem. This coin celebrates the city of Cincinnati as a “Music Center of America” and Stephan Foster as “America’s Troubadour”.
The reverse of this coin depicts a young woman playing a lyre; this mythical “goddess of music” most likely corresponds to one of Zeus’s nine daughters called muses. The muses are mythical Greek goddesses representing the various arts.
The woman portrayed on this coin likely represents one of three muses. The first, Euterpe, or “goddess of music” is often seen with an ancient flute like instrument called an aulos. The second, Terpsichore, or “goddess of dance” is illustrated with a lyre in her hands. The third, and I think most likely is Erato, or the “goddess of lyric poetry”, she is depicted playing a lyre like instrument called a cithara. Since Erato represents both poetry and song, I think she captures the intent of this commemorative coin.
Stephen Foster, a one-time resident of Cincinnati appears on the obverse of this coin. Stephen Foster is responsible for penning American folk songs many people still sing today. Among his more popular songs are “Oh! Susanna”, “Camptown Races”, “My Old Kentucky Home”, and “Jeannie with the Light Brown Hair”.
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| Justitia (Lady Justice) |
United States
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50C 1936 S COLUMBIA
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PCGS MS 63
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In 1936, the United States Mint issued an unusually large assortment of commemorative half-dollars. I believe that much of the reason for this was due to political excesses and abuse regarding the purpose of commemorative coins. This resulted in a glut of coins that celebrated and financed regional events rather than those with a national interest. Consequently, except for the Bicentennial coins, there were no new commemoratives minted after 1954 until the Washington Half-Dollar in 1982.
The aforementioned abuses have given coin collectors a treasure trove of collectible coins representing little-known events in American history. One such coin commemorates the sesquicentennial of Columbia as the capital of South Carolina. Regarding this coin, many people in the numismatic community think its design is simple and uninspiring. However, for the person who examines this coin a little closer, they will find a gold mine of South Carolinian history of national significance.
Since most of the commemorative coins issued in 1936 were regional in nature, their mintages tended to be very low. Correspondingly, this PCGS MS-63, 1936-S Columbia Sesquicentennial Half-Dollar has a mintage of only 8,007. For type collectors, this coin also has mintages from Philadelphia and Denver at 9,007 and 8,009 coins respectively. The composition, weight, and size of this coin are that of a standard 90% silver, US half-dollar and the coins designer is A. Wolfe Davidson, who was an art student at Clemson College.
The central device on the obverse of this coin is an image of Justitia, the Roman goddess of justice. In her right hand, she is holding a double-edged sword and in her left hand, a set of scales. Typically, Lady Justice is also wearing a blindfold to represent impartiality before the law. However, in this instance, she appears as she originally did in ancient Rome, which was without a blindfold. The scales representing truth and fairness equally weigh both sides of an issue. The double-edged sword representing reason and justice cuts both ways, for or against either party.
Behind Lady Justice, are images of the old and the new statehouses of South Carolina identified by the dates 1786 and 1936. Construction of the old statehouse began when Columbia became the state capital in 1786. Nearly three-quarters of a century later construction of a new statehouse began on an adjacent property. Adding to the mystique of this coin are the significant votes that took place in the old statehouse. One such vote on November 10, 1860, shortly after the election of Abraham Lincoln, called for a convention to draw up an Ordinance of Secession. Subsequently, on December 20, 1860, South Carolina became the first state to secede from the Union. Unfortunately, the old statehouse burned to the ground under General Shermans occupation. Ironically though, the stone exterior of the new statehouse withstood the artillery bombardment of Shermans troops. Subsequently, brass markers identify the damage in the new statehouse by Union artillery shells. Economically devastated by the war, construction of the new statehouse was finally completed in 1903.
The central device on the reverse of this coin is a palmetto tree that is reminiscent of the state seal of South Carolina. At the base of the tree are a banner, twelve crossed arrows or spears, and a fallen oak.
The state seal of South Carolina is made up of two ovals connected to each other by palmetto branches. Atop the palmetto tree in the left oval are two shields with the dates March 26 and July 4 representing the date of the first South Carolina constitution and the declaration of Independence. Written on the banner at the base of the tree, at the point the twelve arrows cross, representing the twelve other colonies (the palmetto tree represents South Carolina), is a Latin phrase translated, who shall separate. The fallen oak signifies the defeat of the British fleet attacking the fort at Sullivans Island on June 28, 1776. Underneath the tree is the phrase, having fallen it has set up a better. The right oval features Spes, the goddess of Hope holding a laurel branch and walking on a beach at dawn among discarded weapons. Written on the rim of the left oval is the state name and motto, prepared in mind and resources, and the phrase around the right oval is, while I breathe, I hope.
I must confess that without this coin I would not have had the occasion to learn the history represented on this coin. Therefore, in the context of history, commemorative coins serve to teach American history to current and future generations of Americans.
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| Marianne |
FRENCH INDO-CHINA
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1P 1947 F.i.china REEDED EDGE
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NGC AU 58
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French Indo-China Marianne
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| Miss Canada/Lady Liberty |
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SC50C 1959 SILVER ST. LAWRENCE SEAWAY HERALDIC ART MEDAL
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NGC MEDAL MS 66
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| Effigy of the Repuplic |
PORTUGAL 1836 TO DATE
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50C 1966
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NGC MS 65
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Liberty head right - Portugal adopted the “Effigy of the Republic” as an official national personification in 1910 when the republic substituted the monarchy. Liberty, shown on the obverse of this coin wearing a Phrygian cap is modeled after the famous French portrait “Liberty Leading the People”.
As a national personification, this image of “Liberty” never gained popularity, and it is rarely in use today. The obverse and reverse design of this coin remained until 1968.
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| Concordia |
ITALY
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S1000L 1970R ROME CENTENNIAL
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NGC MS 66
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| Allegorical |
CHILE - COLONIAL - 1749-1818
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20P 1976 SO
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NGC MS 63
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A Chilean representation of "Liberty" KM #188 -
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| Lady Liberty |
United States
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S$1 1996 S COMMUNITY SERVICE
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NGC PF 69 UC
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The design of the 1996 Commemorative Community Service Dollar is based upon a 1905-06 presentation medal designed by Augustus Saint Gaudens. Saint-Gaudens’ niece, Marion Clark Nichols, an officer of the Women’s auxiliary of the Massachusetts Civil Service Reform Association, commissioned the medal for the association. The obverse of the medal portrays an illustration of Justice as a standing female figure holding the standard and a scale in her right hand and the shield of the state in the other. Additionally, on the obverse is the caption, “The Best Shall Serve the State”. The reverse of the medal depicts a laurel wreath with the inscription, “The Women’s Auxiliary of the Massachusetts Civil Service Reform Association” in its center. The scale on the obverse of the medal represents justice, whiles the shield represents the state. The laurel wreath, dating back to ancient Greece, signifies victory and when used today, can denote eternity. The 1996 Commemorative Community Service Dollar illustrates Lady Liberty holding a book and lantern in her right hand rather than a scale. The reverse with the caption, “Service for America” is in the center of a laurel wreath on the dollar. Whereas, as in the year 1906 Justice was the aim of Community Service, the year 1996 includes the light of education. The photos here are side-by-side collages of the obverse and reverse of the coin and the medal. Note the similarities therein.
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| Lady Liberty |
FRANCE - 1870 TO DATE
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47mm (2000) PARIS MINT AE LIBERTAS AMERICANA
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NGC MS 63
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Libertas Americana
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| Venus |
ITALY
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10C 2002R
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PCGS MS 66
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| Britannia |
FALKLAND ISLANDS
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CROWN 2007 Falklands 25TH ANNIV. OF LIBERATION TRIUMPHANT BRITANNIA
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NGC MS 67
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Addendum to my Coin of the Month
Britannia and the Falkland Islands
Nations that commemorate events of national significance through their coins are oftentimes able inspire their citizenry. For instance, the United States through the imagery of its bicentennial coinage reminds us of our nation's greatness (dollar), its permanence and values(half dollar), and its struggle for freedom and liberty (quarter). The two-dollar bill (a favorite of mine) inspired us with a portrait of the signing of the Declaration of Independence (I still remember the snafu over the three missing delegates in that rendition.) Likewise, I can remember the patriotic mood of our nation in 1976 and my excitement over the bicentennial coinage. That said, I think these coins spoke to the average non-collecting American as well.
More recently, the imagery present on the 50-state quarters has served to remind us of each state's history and diversity. These coins in turn, became a source of pride for the residents of each respective state. For example, I gave each of my nieces and nephews a silver proof set on their graduation from high school. Being from Wisconsin, I still remember my sister's excitement over her son who among all my nieces and nephews, got the Wisconsin state quarter for his graduation.
This brings me to my current "Coin of the Month" and the use of Britannia on a Falkland Islands coin commemorating the 25th anniversary of the liberation of the Falkland Islands. Without getting into politics, I want to focus on the design of this coin that presumes British sovereignty over the Falklands. A brief summation of the history of the Falkland Islands War will put this coin in context.
Since its discovery, sovereignty over the Falkland Islands has been in constant dispute. Nevertheless, the Falkland Islands have remained under British rule throughout most of the Falkland Island's history. On April 2, 1982, the special forces of the Argentine army invaded and captured the islands. The Argentine government reasoned that because of the islands extreme distance from Great Britain, that the United Kingdom would relinquish their control over them. However, the Argentinians underestimated the United Kingdom's resolve to come to the defense of the islands under their protectorate. Subsequently, on June 14, 1982, after a brief war, Argentinian forces surrendered the islands back to the United Kingdom.
After the war, the inhabitants of the Falkland Islands became British citizens and 25 years later, a 2007 one-crown coin commemorates the liberation of the Falklands. With the islands as a backdrop, a triumphant Britannia stands strong, trident in hand, ready to defend the Falklands against all potential foes. In Britannia's other hand is a shield displaying the coat of arms of the Falkland Islands and an olive branch. While Britannia is prepared to defend the Falklands, she prefers peace. Around Britannia's shoulders is cape on which is the union flag representing the United Kingdom as the Falkland Islands protectorate.
To the inhabitants of the Falkland Islands, this coin then conveys a sense of stability and security. Regardless of what happens, the inhabitants of the Falkland Islands know the United Kingdom will come to their defense. In spite of everything, Argentina has not renounced their claim to the Falkland Islands. However, rather than seeking a military solution to their claim, Argentina is now committed to a diplomatic solution.
Throughout this post, I wanted to show Britannia in another context from my previous post. In summary, regardless of the country, national personifications are strong symbols that have the power to move nations.
Next month I will continue my three part "seated national personifications" series with Lady Liberty of the United States, so until then, happy collecting.
Gary
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| Britannia/Marianne |
GREAT BRITAIN - DECIMAL
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S5PND 2004 G.britain ENTENTE CORDIALE
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NGC PF 69 ULTRA CAMEO
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| Lady Liberty |
United States
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G$10 2007 W JEFFERSON'S LIBERTY
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PCGS PF 70 UC
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The following biography is taken from the US Mint's web site:Thomas Jefferson’s Liberty First Spouse $10 Gold CoinPresident, 1801–1809 The Presidential $1 Coin Act of 2005 contains a provision to provide continuity of the First Spouse Gold Coin Program during those times in which a President served without a First Spouse. This provision applies to Thomas Jefferson, whose wife Martha died in 1782. Married in 1772, Thomas Jefferson was a widower for 19 years when he became President in 1801. The gold coins issued to accompany any President who served without a spouse will each feature a design emblematic of Liberty on its obverse, as depicted on a United States coin originally issued during the President’s time in office. For Thomas Jefferson’s presidency, the selected image appeared on the Draped Bust Half-Cent coin from 1800–1808, and was originally executed by United States Mint Chief Engraver Robert Scot. Reverse Design Thomas Jefferson is widely recognized for his unmatched expertise with the written word. Even in death, Jefferson left no room for interpretation, leaving careful and precise instructions detailing exactly which of his achievements would be memorialized on his final resting place. Located on the grounds of his Monticello estate, his monument states "Here was buried Thomas Jefferson: author of the Declaration of American Independence, of the Statute of Virginia for Religious Freedom and father of the University of Virginia."
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| Lady Liberty |
United States
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G$10 2008 W JACKSON'S LIBERTY
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NGC PF 70 ULTRA CAMEO
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The following biography is taken from the US Mint's web site:Andrew Jackson’s Liberty First Spouse $10 Gold CoinPresident, 1829–1837 The Presidential $1 Coin Act of 2005 contains a provision to provide continuity of the First Spouse Gold Coin Program during those times in which a president served without a first spouse. This provision applies to Andrew Jackson, whose wife Rachel died in December 1828, just a few months before his presidential inauguration. The gold coins issued to accompany any president who served without a spouse will each feature a design emblematic of Liberty on its obverse, as depicted on a United States coin issued during the President’s time in office. For Andrew Jackson’s presidency, the selected image appeared on the Capped Bust, Lettered Edge Half-Dollar coin from 1807–1836, and was originally executed by United States Mint Engraver John Reich. Reverse Design Andrew Jackson, known as “Old Hickory,” is remembered as a war hero who led a force of approximately 4,000 American troops against a British Army more than twice that size and emerged victorious in January 1815 at the Battle of New Orleans. Although a treaty had been signed at Ghent, Belgium, weeks earlier, the news had not reached either army, and the American troops’ victory at the Battle of New Orleans helped secure that crucial southern sea port as part of the first successful military defense of the country’s national sovereignty.
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| Europa |
FRANCE - PART 5
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S10E 2009 FALL OF THE BERLIN WALL
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NGC PF 69 ULTRA CAMEO
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Europa
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| Lady Liberty |
United States
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G$20 2009 ULTRA HIGH RELIEF EARLY RELEASES
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NGC MS 69
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The following are the words of mint director Ed Moy. My edits cannot improve on his explanation of the allegorical design of this coin. "The Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle is a sculpture executed on a small circular surface. On the obverse, Saint-Gaudens shows us Liberty, personified by a beautiful woman striding powerfully forward wearing a Greco-Roman gown, leading the way with a torch in her front hand and an olive branch in the back hand. From this design we intuit that liberty is central to the American spirit, has its roots in Greek and Roman philosophy, is beautiful and attractive to all, and wherever Liberty goes, when preceded by God, peace follows. On the reverse is a young eagle flying during a sunrise. This is America, young and strong, in its ascendancy with a bright future before it."
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| Marianne |
FRANCE - PART 5
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S10E 2009 COURT OF HUMAN RIGHTS
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NGC PF 69 ULTRA CAMEO
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The "Sower"
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| Italia |
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S10E 2009R ITALY YEAR OF ASTRONOMY
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NGC PF 69 ULTRA CAMEO
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| Urania |
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5H 2009 UKRAINE YEAR OF ASTRONOMY
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NGC MS 69
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This month my “Coin of the Month” feature (Volume 3 Number 8) will touch on three events. The first event relates to the coin’s origin in the Ukraine and represents my hope for an acceptable and peaceful resolution to Ukraine’s ongoing conflict with Russia. Next, this coin commemorates the 2009 “International Year of Astronomy” and corresponds to my fascination with space exploration. Finally, there will be a lunar eclipse on the night of April 14/15, 2014 that directly correlates to the person depicted on the coins reverse, Yuri Drohobych (1450-1494).
This month’s coin of the month is a 2009 copper-nickel 5 hryvnia from Ukraine commemorating the International Year of Astronomy. It has a weight of 16.54 grams and is 35mm in diameter. The coin’s mintage is 45,000.
A small Ukrainian coat of arms appears prominently on top of the coin’s obverse dividing the legend, “National Bank of Ukraine”. The coin’s denomination of 5 hryvnia is inscribed on an unraveling scroll along the bottom of the obverse with the date 2009 in exergue just above it. To the right of the scroll is a small mintmark representing the National Bank of Ukraine Mint.
An illustration of the cosmos with a representation of our solar system featuring the orbits of Mercury, Venus, Earth, Mars, and Jupiter serves as a backdrop to this coin’s obverse. Orbiting the planet earth is its moon.
The female figure to the left of this coin’s obverse is the mythical goddess of astronomy and astrology, Urania. Urania is one of the nine daughters of Zeus called a Muse. The nine Muses were the goddesses of the various performing and musical arts. Urania is the granddaughter of Uranus and Gaia by Mnemosyne her mother. Uranus (Greek word for heavenly or heaven) is the titan god of the sky from whom Urania probably got her name. Urania also had the power to foretell the future according to the arrangement of the stars. The identifying attributes of Urania are a celestial globe and a wand that she often uses to point at the globe. She appears on this coin holding a globe in her right hand while pointing to another globe with her wand. Today there are a number of astronomical observatories around the world that use the name Urania within their name. Her image also appears on the official seal of the United States Naval Observatory.
Dividing the reverse of this coin into thirds, the top left quadrant features the official logo of “The International Year of Astronomy.” Against a background of charted stars or possibly a planetarium, is an image of an adult holding the hand of a child and pointing towards the stars. Underneath the logo is the legend, “The International Year of Astronomy.” One of the stated goals of the “International Year of Astronomy” was to introduce the next generation of astronomers to astronomy.
The bottom half of the reverse portrays astronomical books, charts, and instruments. Among the astronomical instruments are a number of spyglasses, a compass, an orrery, and an armillary sphere. An orrery is a mechanical model of the solar system. The one depicted on this coin uses a candle in the place of the sun and the orbit of one planet. An armillary sphere is a spherical representation of the sky with the earth at its core. As such, the armillary sphere is useful as a navigational apparatus.
The top right quadrant of the reverse features a bust of Ukrainian astrologer/astronomer Yuri Drohobych (1450-1494). Yuri Drohobych, a genius in his time, was also a philosopher, scientist, writer, and medical doctor. Among Yuri Drohobych’s many accomplishments is his accurate prediction of two lunar eclipses. Incidentally, the timing of this post coincides with the coming lunar eclipse on the evening of April 14/15, 2014.
Finally, I hope you get a chance to view the eclipse this week. While the earth’s shadow blocks the light of the sun, the effect of the earth to bend the sun’s light will make the moon appear blood red. Unfortunately, the weather around where I live probably will not be favorable to viewing the eclipse. I hope that you have the best conditions possible to view the first of four total eclipses of the moon between now and September 28, 2015.
Happy collecting!
Gary
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| Lady Liberty |
United States
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G$10 2010 W BUCHANAN'S LIBERTY
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NGC PF 70 ULTRA CAMEO
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The following biography is taken from the US Mint's web site:James Buchanan's Liberty First Spouse Gold Coin President, 1857–1861 President James Buchanan was not married. The obverse (heads side) design of James Buchanan's Liberty First Spouse Gold Coin is a reproduction of the Liberty Head Quarter Eagle designed by Christian Gobrecht minted and issued from 1840 through 1907, with the inscriptions LIBERTY, 2010, IN GOD WE TRUST, 1857 and 1861, and 15th PRESIDENCY. The reverse (tails) design, by Artistic Infusion Program Associate Designer David Westwood, depicts the future President as a boy working as a bookkeeper in his family's small country store.
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| One of Three Graces |
SAN MARINO
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2E 2010R SANDRO BOTTICELLI
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NGC MS 65
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I am very particular about the coins I include in this set and in the past I have dismissed coins from inclusion because they seemed too racy for me. This NGC MS-65 2010 two-euro coin from San Marino came close to being excluded because of who is represented on the coin. The lady on the obverse of this coin is one of three graces or charities in Greek mythology. The three graces were known for their charm, beauty, nature, human creativity, and fertility. The image on this coin is taken from a 1482 painting by Sandro Botticelli named “Primavera” or “Allegory of Spring”. In the painting Venus is the central figure flanked by the three graces dancing together and the goddess Flora/Chloris spreading flowers. Since spring is an inspirational time of the year with regeneration and new life. it is only fitting that female allegorical figures should represent it. Because art is often inspirational and the ladies in this particular painting are portrayed tactfully, I am including this coin in my collection.
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| Minerva |
United States
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$5 2011 W MEDAL OF HONOR EARLY RELEASES
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NGC PF 69 ULTRA CAMEO
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A Four-Coin Tribute to our Veterans
For Novembers Coin of the Month column, I am using four coins to illustrate my heartfelt thanks to all the veterans of the United States Armed Forces.
Those coins, all certified by NGC, are a 2005-P MS-70 United States Marine Corps silver dollar, a 2010-W PFUC-69 Disabled Veterans silver dollar, a 2011-P PFUC-69 Medal of Honor silver dollar, and a 2011-W PFUC-69 Medal of Honor five-dollar gold piece. Each of the dollar coins conforms to the dimensions, weight, and composition of a standard US silver dollar, and likewise, the five-dollar coin matches that of a standard US half-eagle.
Initially called Armistice Day, Veterans Day coincides with the end of hostilities in World War I on November 11, 1918. By Presidential Proclamation, the first observance of Armistice Day occurred on November 11, 1919. Subsequently, in 1938 by an act of Congress, Armistice Day became an annual observance celebrated on November 11. Later through the efforts of World War II veteran Raymond Weeks, Armistice Day was renamed Veterans Day in 1954. Henceforth, since Armistice Day was originally intended to honor those who died on the battlefield in World War I, Veterans Day today celebrates the service of all veterans.
The final coin of my tribute is the 2011-W Medal of Honor five-dollar gold piece. The obverse of this coin features an image of the original Medal of Honor established in 1861. On the coins reverse is a likeness of the goddess Minerva carrying a Union shield in her right hand and the flag of the United States in the other, behind her are Civil War era munitions and a cannon. In Roman mythology, Minerva is the goddess of war, wise counsel, defense of towns, and heroic endeavor. The shield is representative of the Armed Forces of the United States; the flag is the banner under which they fight. As a defensive shield, is our military then defending a piece of cloth, or a plot of land? Rather they are defending the people represented by the flag and the freedom and liberty of that people. The men and women of the Armed Forces of the United States then deserve our heartfelt thanks and gratitude. Freedom comes at a high price and is not free, but for the men and women of our nations military, it is a price worth paying.
As a veteran of the United States Navy during the cold war, I had often thought about how I would react if the call came to go to war. On my ship we spent countless hours training and preparing for such an event. Thankfully, for me, that call never came. However, today, scores of men and women are answering the call to arms, and many will pay the ultimate price on our behalf. Our veterans have given so much; let us not fail to show them the proper gratitude they deserve.
Happy Veterans Day, November 11, 2012.
Gary
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| A Somber "Lady Liberty" |
United States
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MEDAL 2011 W SILVER SEPTEMBER 11 MEMORIAL EARLY RELEASES
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NGC PF 70 ULTRA CAMEO
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| Miss Canada |
CANADA - 1968 TO DATE
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S$1 2017 GILT CANADIAN CONFEDERATION SE FIRST RELEASES
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NGC PF 69 ULTRA CAMEO
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| Britannia and the Canadian Provinces |
CANADA - 1968 TO DATE
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S$100 2017 10oz CANADIAN CONFEDERATION OF
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NGC PF 69 ULTRA CAMEO
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There are few things in numismatics that I enjoy more than strong allegories on coins and medals. Where the allegory is unknown, I endeavor to decipher it within the historical context of the numismatic piece. Because of this love I created two NGC custom sets, "Inspirational Ladies" and "The Use of Seated Imagery in Numismatics." Researching the coins and medals contained in these two sets has given me many hours of enjoyment!
One coin that I recently acquired illustrating a strong allegory is the 2017 Canadian .9999 Fine Silver $100 Coin, "Juventas et Patrius Vigor" (Latin for "Youth and Patriotic Strength"), 1867 Confederation Medal. This coin is 76.25 mm in diameter and weighs 10 oz. The mintage is 1000 and my coin's serial number is 321/1000. This year Canada is celebrating their 150th anniversary of confederation. Marking the occasion, Canada is releasing a number of commemorative coins.
The obverse of this massive coin features an 1867 profile bust of Queen Victoria and a current profile of Queen Elizabeth II along with their corresponding crowned monograms. The obverse represents Queen Victoria as the British queen in power at the time of confederation in 1867 and the current queen, Queen Elizabeth II.
Faithfully reproduced, the reverse of this coin is modeled from the dies of the original 76.5 mm, 1867 Canadian Confederation Medal. Issued with Queen Victoria's approval, this medal was minted in silver and bronze. It was awarded to persons of merit for their service to Canada. The original mintages are one gold medal presented to Queen Victoria, fifty silver medals, and five hundred bronze medals. The designers of this medal were brothers JS and AB Wyon. These medals seldom appear on the open market and are quite expensive. I found an auction record for a beautiful original silver medal selling at $2750.00 CAD + $550 buyers premium on 7/13/11 ( http://www.icollector.com/1867-Canadian-Confederation-Silver-Medal_i10734270 ). I also found the record of a bronze medal that sold for $800 USD ( https://www.emedals.com/a-rare-confederation-commemorative-table-medal-1867-c0881 ).
The reverse features Britannia representing the UK, seated and holding a scroll on which is written "Confederation." The lion resting its head on Britannia's lap is reminiscent of "Una and the Lion" from Spenser's "The Faerie Queene." Around Britannia and idealizing the motto "Youth and Patriotic Strength" are four young maidens representing the four original provinces of Canada; Ontario, Quebec, Nova Scotia, and New Brunswick . Ontario is holding a sickle and sheaf representing agriculture. Holding a canoe paddle is Quebec representing commerce. In Nova Scotia's hand is a shovel representing mining. Finally, New Brunswick is holding an ax to represent forestry. I gleaned much of the information for this post from the following website, http://www.forces.gc.ca/en/honours-history-awards/conf-medal.page . Here you will also find a lot of interesting facts about the original medal that I had not mentioned.
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| Germania & Britannia |
FANTASY COINS
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Silver S5M 2019 1oz Germany Britannia & Germania Allegories-Private Issue
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NGC MS 69
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| Germania & Columbia |
FANTASY COINS
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Silver S5M 2019 1oz Germany Germania & Columbia-FR Allegories-Private Issue
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NGC MS 70
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| Germania & Italia |
FANTASY COINS
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Silver S5M 2020 FR Germania Allegories: Italia & Germania-Private Issue
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NGC MS 70
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| Myths & Legends Maid Marian |
GREAT BRITAIN - DECIMAL
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S2PND 2022 G.britain Maid Marian First Releases
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NGC MS 69
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| Peace |
CANADA - 1968 TO DATE
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S$1 2023 1oz Peace Dollar - Rose Gilt Pulsating - UHR - FR
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NGC PF 69 ULTRA CAMEO
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| ****INSPIRATIONAL**** ******MONARCHS****** |
United States
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20C 1876
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NGC MS PrAg
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COINS FROM AROUND THE WORLD FEATURING MONARCHS
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| Queen Victoria(Great Britain) |
GREAT BRITAIN 1816-1901
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1SOV 1872 G.britain ST.GEORGE
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NGC MS 61
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Queen Victoria
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| Queen Isabella(Spain) |
United States
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25C 1893 ISABELLA
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PCGS MS 63
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Queen Isabella - The Columbian Exposition quarter commemorative coin, commonly referred to as the Isabella quarter, was minted as a result of a petition made by Board of Lady Managers of the Columbian Exposition for a souvenir quarter. It honors Queen Isabella of Spain who sponsored Columbus' travels that ended in the colonization of America. The Board of Lady Managers was formed at the urging of Susan B. Anthony to coordinate and oversee the women's activities and exhibits at Chicago's 1893 World's Columbian Exposition.
The coin was designed by Charles E. Barber. The obverse depicts the crowned bust of Isabella of Spain. UNITED STATES OF AMERICA is lettered around the perimeter with the 1893 date to the right of the portrait and conforming to the curve of AMERICA. Symbolizing women's industry, the reverse shows a kneeling woman with a distaff in her left hand and a spindle in her right hand. BOARD OF LADY MANAGERS is lettered around the upper perimeter with COLUMBIAN QUARTER DOL. around the lower perimeter. Only a small quantity of these coins were sold at the Exposition at $1 per coin. This was the first commemorative quarter issued by the United States and is the first coin to depict a woman on both sides. Additionally, it is the first United States coin to depict a foreign monarch.
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| Queen Jadwiga of Poland |
POLAND 1990 TO DATE
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S100Z 1925MW-DATED QUEEN JADWIGA RESTRIKE
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NGC PF 67 ULTRA CAMEO
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| Queen Elizabeth (Great Britain) |
NEW ZEALAND
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PENNY 1953 Newzealand
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NGC PF 65 RB
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Queen Elizabeth
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