Coins are simply a form of currency for some people. For the collector, however, these items are like miniature works of art.
It’s been said that a person’s perception of beauty is entirely subjective.
Here are five world coins I find particularly beautiful from the thousands of coin designs that have graced coins throughout history.
Here are some of the most beautiful currencies in the world!
Most Beautiful Currency in the World:
Central American Republic 8 Reales
In 1823, the provinces of Central America united under a banner of independence from Spain to form the Central American Republic.
The Central American Republic’s highest silver denomination was the 8 Reale.
The sun is depicted on the obverse, visible from behind a line of five mountains.
Across the top, the words “REPUBLICA DEL CENTRO DE AMERICAS” can be seen.
There’s a tree on the back that represents each denomination. Mint, assayer’s initials, and fineness are listed below.
Translated, the inscriptions say “Free Grows Fertile” (or “LIBRE CRESCA FECUNDO”). Dated 1824–1842 and 1846–1847 for their minting periods.
1 Thaler
The canton of Basel can be found at Switzerland’s northernmost point.
After joining the Old Swiss Confederation, the canton of Basel was established in 1501. This Thaler features a left-facing, wingless dragon holding the arms of Basel on the obverse.
Keep Us At Peace, Lord,” “PACE,” or “PAC. A stunning image of the city of Basel is featured on the back. A “BASILEA” or “Basel” legend was displayed for a single year only in 1756.
Japanese Coin From the Meiji Era
Japan’s monetary system underwent significant reforms during the Meiji era.
After the passage of the New Currency Act in 1871, the yen became a gold-based currency. It goes like this.
One yen is equivalent to one-fifteenth of a gram of gold, one hundred sen, or one thousand in.
The 20 yen coin was the highest denomination issued by the Japanese government at the time.
A dragon is encased in a beaded circle on the obverse. The inscriptions on the back of the bill read “Great Japan, Year 3 of Meiji, 20 yen,” or.”
A pair of crossed flags representing the armed forces surround the country’s emblem on the coin’s reverse.
For the World’s Columbian Exposition, coins were struck in 1870, 1867, 1877, 1880, and 1892.
United Kingdom “Godless” Florin
The British Florin was first issued in 1849. The Florin depicts a young Victoria on one side and the cruciform shields of the United Kingdom and national emblems on the other.
The legends on this variety of Florin don’t feature the abbreviation “DG,” which stands for “by the Grace of God,” hence the name “Godless Florin.”
The inscription “ONE TENTH POUND” on the coin’s reverse indicates that it was also one of the earliest examples of decimal currency.
In 1849, a special business strike was issued for the entire year.
South Peru 8 Reales
The Peru-Bolivian Confederation, of which the Republic of South Peru was a part, existed for only three years before collapsing.
This 8 Reale is one of several exquisite coins issued by the Republic of South Peru at this time.
The coin’s obverse depicts a smiling sun with stars in the sky. The inscriptions read “REPUB SUD PERUANA,” which translates to “Republic of South Peru.”
A volcano, ship, castle, and cornucopia are all in a wreath on the coin’s reverse.
According to the inscriptions, this sign is a “FIRME POR LA UNION” (a.k.a. “Sign for the Union”). Dated 1837–1839.
Before you go…
We hope that you enjoyed this list of beautiful currencies and coins. We know many more are out there, but these are some of our favorites! May you have a rewarding experience in your hobby’s pursuit of beauty wherever you find it. Have fun collecting!
Check out my next article: “7 Oldest Coins in the World!“
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