The Birth of SPB: The History of the Saint Petersburg Mint Mark A long tradition of coin minting The Mint in the Peter and Paul Fortress in Saint Petersburg is one of the oldest and largest mints in the world. As part of the renowned Russian company Goznak, it has...
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The secret language of coins: What privy marks reveal
Secrets of the Coins: The Privy Mark Have you ever wondered what those little symbols or markings on some coins mean? They are not just random designs, but so-called privy marks that carry fascinating stories. Originally, privy marks were a security feature to prevent counterfeiting. Subtle changes in coin design...
The (not so) golden tip: Why online coin appraisals are sometimes nonsense
The (not so) golden tip: Why online coin appraisals are sometimes nonsense Ringing alarm at Bernhard’s Coin Magic! Bernard adjusts his glasses and picks up the phone. "History at pocket money price? “This is Bernhard’s coin magic!” he greets us kindly. "Bernard, old stamp friend! Do you remember Uncle Norbert's...
From collector to investor: The biggest concerns when buying gold coins
From collector to investor: The biggest concerns when buying gold coins as investment objects - and how to solve them Many gold coin collectors would like to take the step of investing. However, concerns often arise. Here are some of the most common concerns and possible solutions: 1. Fluctuating market:...
Gold Coins Knowledge Sources
Where can I find good sources to learn more about gold coins? There are many excellent resources, both online and offline, to learn more about gold coins. Here are some suggestions to get you started: Web pages: Professional Coin Grading Services ( PCGS ): Provides educational resources, coin identification tools,...
Proof, Reverse Proof and Enhanced Reverse Proof Coins: What’s the Difference?
Proof, Reverse Proof and Enhanced Reverse Proof Coins: What’s the Difference? In the realm of numismatics, where artistry meets history, the term "proof" goes far beyond its dictionary definition. Proof coins, reverse proof coins and enhanced reverse proof coins represent a spectrum of surface finishes that elevate coins from mere...
What are Piedfort coins?
Piedfort Coins: A History of Prestige and Showpieces Piedfort coins , which are characterized by their unusually thick format , have occupied a special place in numismatics for centuries. Often twice the thickness and weight of standard coins of the same design, Piedfort coins were never intended for daily circulation....
Why Гознак/Goznak and not ГоСзнак/Gosznac?
Гознак: A name with history Гознак (Goznak) is a term that will be familiar to many people in Russia and beyond. But what exactly is behind this name? And why is it so often misspelled? In this blog post, we delve into the fascinating history of Гознак and reveal the...
Liquidity of gold coins vs. real estate: a comparison
Liquidity of gold coins vs. real estate: A key difference Liquidity refers to the ease with which an asset can be converted into cash. Here's how gold coins and real estate compare: Gold coins: High liquidity: Gold coins, especially common investment coins such as American Eagles , Krugerrands or Canadian...
How do I avoid buying fake gold coins when buying online?
How do I avoid buying fake gold coins when buying online? Here are some important strategies to avoid counterfeits when buying gold coins online: Before the purchase: Check the seller: This is crucial. Look for established online dealers with a long history in the coin collecting community. Check out their...
Is it worth buying raw coins and hoping for a high grade?
Is it worth buying raw coins and hoping for a high grade? The decision whether to buy ungraded/raw coins with the hope of a high grade from an independent certification service like NGC or PCGS is complex and requires a careful assessment of the risks and rewards. Potential benefits: Financial...
Beware the Glitter: Red Flags to Spot When Buying Raw Gold Coins
Beware the Glitter: Red Flags to Spot When Buying Raw Gold Coins Gold has fascinated humanity for centuries. Even today, ungraded gold coins remain a popular choice for investors and collectors. However, the market for these precious metals can be deceptive for beginners. Fraudulent sellers can take advantage of a...
