I've found a coin on eBay, that I cannot find anywhere else on the net (other than sites that aggregate listings from eBay). No online catalogue (colnect.com being the most comprehensive I can find) has it listed, and my searches unearth no discussion on any forums. Apparently there are only 2500 minted, and I consider it to be an especially unique and attractive coin (if it is genuine). I posted in the Numi forum but have had no replies so thought I'd try here too. It is (allegedly) a 1 oz .999 ag proof, accompanied by COA and in box/capsule. 2010 Palau 5$ Memento Mori * Carpe Diem Proof coin. Source: Source: I am going crazy trying to substantiate the legitimacy of this coin. I have one on the way, and will test it as best I can when it arrives. This will be tricky as gravity testing a proof will obv require great care (I'm thinking zip-lock baggie tared with the water) So, my questions to you guys: What are your impressions? Has anybody seen or heard of this coin? What would be the best way to test a supposed Proof silver coin to establish whether or not is indeed .999 ag, without spoiling the finish? Am I foolish for pursuing something that might obviously be a fraudulent listing/unofficial issue? I figure I have recourse to refund (PP, CC) so my downside risk is limited only to time/return postage. If it fails testing, I will be returning it and opening a dispute with the seller if they don't play ball with a refund. If it is indeed .999 ag but not an official Palau Issue, I would still be tempted to keep it..
http://www.zlate-mince.cz/email/09102010_.htm Seems to be a Czech coin, Google will have a go at translating it for you but when I copy and paste it goes all foreign! Diameter: 38.61 mm, weight: 31.1 g ryzost: 999/1000 Ag Fineness: 999/1000 Ag nominl : 5 Dollars nominal: 5 Dollars hrana: vroubkovan Edge: milled proveden: proof design: standard nklad: 2500 ks load: 2500 pcs On a side note, the write up says it is sterling silver with a plastic skull motif but the specs say it is .999 silver
brilliant work Jislizard! Thanks. I've never tried that image search thing, does work huh. I'm hoping the sterling/plastic specs are a translation confusion.. time will tell. an interesting bit of info from that site: "Palau: One of the three countries (with Brunei and Liechtenstein) which has zero debt."
Interesting that it's a Czech coin inscribed with two Latin phrases .... roughly translated - remember your mortality (memento mori) -- seize the day (carpe diem)