Hobo Coin have made some fine copper designs of late, primarily their alternate history range, which came out at around the same time we decided to add a little coverage of copper here on site. We think it has a great future, taking the place of silver at the more affordable end of the market, and sporting either the same designs, or designs of the same quality.

The latest issue, a collaboration with PF Coins called Interactive Coins Series, is a fine case in point, exhibiting a level of ambition and appearance up there with far more expensive numismatics. Called Saint Michael and the Dragon’s Hoard, it pairs a Mexican Libertad silver bullion round, refinished with metallic and ruthenium plating, that sits inside a huge 124 mm diameter, one-kilo copper round replete with high relief and colour.

The copper round features inner and outer borders, each decorated with different repeating patterns. Between them is an impressive scene of a European-style dragon underground with its huge hoard of gold. The high-relief is particularly impressive here, and well judged in application, creating a fine sense of depth. It’s sited in such a way as to face St. Michael on the Libertad when it’s inserted. A simple idea, but one expertly realised. It’s hard not to like it.

The obverse face has three dragons on it, but these are more monumental in style, with two appearing as guardian statues, and one as if on a medallion. Yet again, high-relief is abundant, well employed, and well finished, to create that deep underground ambience. The end result is an attractive piece of numismatic art, drawing from earlier Chinese medallions, but utilising a distinctive European vibe. The removable Libertad is a great touch, although I’d leave it in, personally. It comes with a certificate of Authenticity, and is limited to just 249 pieces. Despite its size, and the level of work involved in its production, the use of copper means it won’t crush the bank account, and Hobo Coin currently has the launch price set at 399.95 Euro.