2008 Emblems of Britain Gold Proof Set

The British Royal Mint has been busy organizing a major design change to their legal tender coins. This will be reflected in the 2008 Emblems of Britain Gold Proof Set which will be available in November as part of their prelaunch

As the Mint states, "For the first time since decimalization the legal tender coins of the United Kingdom will undergo a major design change. In the late spring of 2008 the nation will see new designs on the coinage, from the 1p to the £1, reflecting a more modern twenty-first century Britain."

"To mark this watershed in numismatic history, and to commemorate the reverse designs that have served Britain well for almost 40 years, the Royal Mint is producing a limited-edition gold Proof collection. This contains seven coins struck in 22 carat gold to Proof quality"

"The Gold Collection comprises seven coins bearing the definitive reverse designs, the portrait of the Queen by Ian Rank-Broadley FRBS on their obverse, and are all dated 2008. Each coin is struck in 22 carat gold to Proof quality. For such a magnificent collection, the Royal Mint has commissioned high-quality hand-crafted oak veneer cases designed exclusively to house the gold Proof coins. An informative booklet featuring a potted history of the iconic designs completes the presentation. Incorporated into each booklet is an individually numbered Certificate of Authenticity signed by the Deputy Master of the Royal Mint."

Decimalization was introduced into Britain just 40 years ago. A lot of work went into the design and the production of the coins at that time. In such a change much thought has to go into the design of the new coins so they can be distinguished, not only from each other, but from the existing coins of the day.

For the Portrait of the Queen Arnold Machin RA had been approved and for the reverse designs a competition was set up. Over 80 artists took part with 900 designs and the series by Christopher Ironside was eventually approved and adopted.

All the coins are dated 2008 and there is a limited issue of only 2008 coins which will be available from 19th November 2007

The Code is UKL8GPS and the price set at £2195.00

The 2008 Emblems of Britain Gold Proof Set is set to be a valuable coin set much sought after by coin enthusiasts over the coming years.

Mexican 20 & 50 Pesos Gold Coins

USA Gold has managed to acquire some 200 Mexican 20 pesos, & 300 50 Pesos Gold Coins in excellent condition, some unminted, and these are sure to be grabbed quickly by avid collectors.

USA Gold states, "In the course of acquiring the 50 Pesos, we were also able to acquire 200 20 Pesos coins in brilliant uncirculated condition. The 20 Pesos coin is hands down one of the most visually appealing coins in the historical era, featuring a detailed representation of the Aztec calendar on the obverse of the coin, and the modern Mexican coat of arms on the reverse. It was minted in comparatively low numbers and is a terrific companion to the 50 Pesos coin."

The peso was initially the name of the eight-real coins issued in Mexico by Spain. These were the so-called Spanish dollars or pieces of eight in wide circulation in the Americas and Asia from the height of the Spanish Empire until the early 19th century. After Mexico gained its independence in 1821, the new government continued the Spanish monetary system of 16 silver reales = 1 gold escudo, with the peso of 8 reales the largest silver coin. Paper money was also issued, denominated in pesos.

In 1910 Mexico celebrated the Centennial of the beginning of its War of Independence with Spain. To commemorate the event, a giant column was erected in the middle of Mexico City with a statue of "El Angel de la Independencia" ("The Angel of Independence") sitting atop. This 6.7-meter statue, constructed of Bronze and Gold, represents the "Winged Victory", a Greek symbol for the goddess Nike (Victory). In her right hand the Angel holds a laurel crown, symbolizing Victory, while in her left she holds a broken chain, symbolizing Freedom.

First minted in 1921, the 50 Pesos gold coin honors the Centennial of the successful end of Mexico's War of Independence. "El Angel" is pictured on the coin opposite the national coat of arms. The Mexican coat of arms depicts the Mexican golden eagle devouring a snake while perched atop a cactus, an antiquated version of the coat of arms developed in the French Style in the late 1800's.

The Mexican Gold Coin 50 Pesos is a beautiful gold coin and is larger than the one ounce Gold Eagle. The 1821 on the lower left commemorates the year of Mexico's independence. The date on the right indicates year of mintage.

USA Gold have often managed to locate Mexican 20 and 50 gold pesos but never in such a large quantity as this.

For those interested in collecting this rare and valuable coin now is the time to step up to USA Gold! and buy now.