Archive Lots

Sri Lanka – 1991 South Asian Federation Games V, 500 Rupees Gold Proof Coin. Issued by the Central Bank of Sri Lanka to commemorate the South Asian Federation Games V held in Colombo in 1991, this exquisite gold proof coin is struck in 0.500 fine gold, weighing 1.6 grams with a diameter of 14 mm. The obverse depicts Kuvera, the God of Wealth, seated and crowned, holding the vase of plenty—a symbol of prosperity—flanked by a lamp and fire altar. A beaded circle of 91 beads encircles the design, representing the year 1991, with inscriptions in Sinhala, Tamil, and English. The reverse features the SAF Games logo, denomination, and legal tender value in three languages, underscoring Sri Lanka’s proud role as host of this prestigious sporting event. This limited-issue, milled-edge coin is a remarkable collector’s piece blending cultural heritage with sporting history. Very Fine+, Rare

Emirate of Bukhara – Gold Tilla of Abd al-Ahad Khan (Reign: 1895–1910), AH 1303, 4.50 grams, Abd alAhad Khan ruled the Emirate of Bukhara during a period of significant change from 1895 to 1910. His reign saw the emirate navigating Russian colonial pressures while maintaining its cultural identity. The gold Tilla coin exemplifies the region’s enduring economic and artistic traditions amid shifting political landscapes. Very Fine+, Rare

Wartime Coins of Occupied Denmark (1941–43) – Set of 5 Zinc Coins Although Denmark declared neutrality during World War II, it was occupied by Germany on April 9, 1940, serving as a strategic base for the invasion of Norway. Initially a protectorate, Denmark came under direct German military occupation in August 1943. Throughout this period, King Christian X and the Danish government remained in the country, albeit with growing tension. This complex political situation is reflected in the wartime coinage: while copper, nickel, and other metals were requisitioned for the war effort, the coins continued to bear the royal cipher but were minted exclusively in zinc, symbolizing both continuity and hardship

Wartime Coins of the Netherlands (1941–44) – Set of 7 (Three Silver, Four Zinc) Despite declaring neutrality, the Netherlands was invaded by Nazi Germany on May 10, 1940, aiming to control its strategic airports and industrial infrastructure for the war effort. The Dutch forces surrendered within five days, prompting Queen Wilhelmina and the government to flee to London. Under German occupation, the 10 and 25 cent coins initially continued to be minted in silver, bearing the Queen’s effigy. However, as the occupation intensified, the coinage shifted to zinc and omitted the Queen’s image. Following liberation in 1944, the silver coins were restored to their prewar design, resuming the tradition of 10 and 25 cent silver pieces.

Belgian Congo and Ruanda-Urundi, 20 Francs, 1959, Obv- On the left, the portrait of a smiling young boy wearing a beret. In the background, the Delcommune dam and the water reservoir on the Lualaba river in Katanga. Rev- On the right, portrait of a young girl. In the background, a fisherman in action in the tumultuous waters of a waterfall. XF, Scarce.

Belgian Congo and Ruanda-Urundi, 50 Francs, 1957, Obv- Modern industrial scene of a textile company with workers at work. Rev- On the left and center, two men work on their loom. In the background, three people sit talking in front of a house in a traditional village. XF, Scarce.

Belgium, 100 Francs = 20 Belgas, 1943. Obv- Portrait of Queen Elisabeth at left; reclining woman with crown and fruit at center (allegory of agriculture), King Albert at right. Rev- Allegorical figures at center; coat of arms at left and right. UNC, Scarce. NR-54.

Belgium, 50 Francs = 10 Belgas, 1944. Obv- Peasant woman with sheaf and two horses at left center. Rev- Allegorical figure holding sailing ship and large cornucopia. UNC, Scarce. NR-82.

Bermuda (British Overseas Territories), 5 Shillings, 1937, Obv- Left-facing head of King George VI at upper center; date at bottom center below Hamilton Harbour. Rev- British coat of arms at centre. VF, Scarce. NR-68.

French Equatorial Africa (Central African States, 50 Francs, 1957. Obv- Woman picking coffee beans at left. Rev- Men logging in river at center. VF+, Scarce. NR-77.