The Art Mints impressive Mandala Art series of fine silver coins continues into its fourth year with what could be the finest issue yet. Beginning in 2015 with ‘Kalachakra’, subsequent years saw ‘Celtic’ and ‘Chinese’ themed designs joining the range. A Mandala is a radially balanced pattern around a central point that, in the case of this coin series at least, contains a definitive element. Originally Sanskrit in origin, it has become more widely adopted by other philosophies, like Buddhism.

While the first coin in the series was very traditionally designed for a Mandala, subsequent coins have taken other styles and transplanted them to the mandala concept. The 2018 issue is no exception and brings with it a level of sharply defined relief that exceeds previous efforts. A close look at the image above should tell you all you need to know regarding the quality on offer here and it stands able to compete with the very best of the competition.

The style this year is Moresque, a mix of Islamic and Christian Renaissance Europe architectural art forms. First appearing in 15th century Italy (particularly in Venice), the stylised flow of leaves and tendrils is attractive and very well implemented in the coin strike. The style continued into the 16th century Mannerist movements. The blue Swarovski crystal in the centre doesn’t look out of place for a change – they usually can be quite jarring and out of place, but not here.

The obverse by contrast is a standard affair, depicting the unmodified and unembellished emblem of Fiji, like the reverse face, with an antique finish. The coin has a mintage of 500 and a weight of three-ounces (93.3 grams). It comes supplied in a good quality box with a certificate of authenticity and sells for around the €400 mark. These are higher-end coins than most and the quality is of the highest order. All of the previous issues have sold out and even this one has already gone from the mint, but dealers will have them in stock now, including several of our sponsors. A beautiful piece of work and if you have the previous issues, we think you’ll definitely want this one.