Innovative use of relief marks Powercoin and CIT’s first Great Micromosaic Passion proof silver coin

It’s often the case that the simplest ideas are the most effective and the perfect example of that is Powercoins latest addition to its repertoire, Great Micromosaic Passion. The subject matter is the ultra-famous painting by the 15th century master Sandro Botticelli, the Birth of Venus. It’s important to choose a subject that people recognise when you’re experimenting with new techniques and Powercoin have certainly done that. A close up of her face dominates the coin.

To get the basics out of the way first, the coin is three ounces of 0.999 silver in weight and forms a rimless disc 65 mm in diameter. Produced by CIT, it incorporates their (and BH Mayers) proprietary SmartMinting technology, without which we doubt the coin would exist in this form. The strike is a simple one in theory, just a pattern of grooves replicating the look of mosaic tiles, but the definition, size and number of them on the coin looks quite extraordinary. The coin is coloured and again, this would not have been possible only a few years ago. The quality and variation in shading, as well as the meticulous application of different shades on individual ’tiles’ is quite sublime. Even the date is inscribed into the mosaic tiles in Roman numerals (look for it around the 4’o’clock position on the coin).

It’s good to see effort paid to the obverse as well. A fine mosaic-style border with the series name inscribed in it surrounds the standard Palau shield emblem and is a mix of proof and matte finish. The edge of the coin will carry an engraved serial number and this will match a certificate of authenticity that’s styled like a museum ticket and carries a hologram for security. The box is styled to look like some pieces of mosaic and looks to be of a good quality, if a little 1970’s in style.

Limited to just 500 pieces, this is a bold and innovative approach to the art coin genre and hugely successful in our view. An attractive subject, well realised, we can’t imagine many fans of the subject matter not being similarly impressed. The coin should ship from the end of March/early April and is set to cost around €300. It’s available directly from Powercoin, although we’re sure others will offer it shortly. An outstanding and original release.

SPECIFICATION
DENOMINATION $20 Palau
COMPOSITION 0.999 silver
WEIGHT 93.3 grams
DIAMETER 65.00 mm
FINISH Proof
MODIFICATIONS Colour
MINTAGE 499
BOX / COA Yes / Yes