Horror is one of the most inventive genres in literary circles, with a deep ocean of imaginative stories and intriguing characters to draw upon. The movie world has more than dipped its toes into the water with such magnificent series as the old Universal Monsters films and the later Hammer Horror films from Britain. Movie stars like Bela Lugosi, Boris Karloff, Christopher Lee and Peter Cushing became household names throughout the world portraying such monsters as Dracula and The Mummy. The small screen has taken the genre to even more popular levels with smash hit series like Tru Blood and Sleepy Hollow appealing to millions. Throw in comic books, novels and radio shows and it’s clear that these stories and characters have wormed their way into our conciousness forever.

There have been a few horror coins in recent years, the excellent Numiartis/CIT Werewolf and Vampire coins immediately springing to mind, but there’s been very little that depicts the classic characters in the way that this new set from Downies has done. There are four 25g sterling silver coins in the clever coffin-shaped box, each with a common clean-struck border. The centre of each reverse side features a comic-strip style drawing of one of the old literary monsters and is the only part of the coin to be coloured using a special technique designed for high relief printing. The coins depict The Headless Horseman, an Undead Mummy, a Werewolf, and the Grim Reaper. Only 2,000 of these sets will be produced and would make a great gift for the collector. The coffin box plays a creaking sound followed by a piercing scream when opened and the whole thing looks a fun package.

The set is available now, but won’t be up at Downies for its Australian customers until 05 October. Those wanting to purchase can call them on 1300 788 358

MINTS DESCRIPTION

Evoking haunting visions of Gothic graveyards, decrepit tombs and ghastly ghouls, this petrifying precious metal presentation honours the Grim Reaper, the Werewolf, the Mummy and the Headless Horseman – in sensational fullcolour!

An appropriately terrifying touch, the set is housed in a coffin-shaped case, which creaks ominously and then unleashes a spine-chilling scream when you open the lid!

■Comprises four Kiribati legal tender 25g sterling silver Proof coins
■Each 40mm coin features a full-colour design in fully struck-up relief
■Strictly limited worldwide mintage set at a mere 2,000
■Set in a creepy coffin-shaped case, which unleashes a terrifying scream when you open the lid
■An alarming addition to your own collection – or perfect Halloween gift!

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SPECIFICATION PER COIN