While we don’t usually detour into bullion bars very often, occasionally, we see something that piques our interest and warrants further inspection. Such is the case with Asahi Refining USA’s new Columbia Goddess bullion range. What caught our eye is that it’s part of their American Reserve range, meaning that everything, from mining, refining, design and production of the product is based within the United States. More importantly, however, was the artist, Joel Iskowitz, whose work on the APMEX bullion series ‘Icons of Inspiration’, where you can read a bit more about him, has long impressed us here.

The subject here has always been a popular one in numismatic circles, that of the national personification in female form. As it’s the United States, we have Columbia, said to represent unity, freedom, justice and democracy.

The depiction of Columbia by Joel Iskowitz is as fine as you’d expect, holding aloft a beacon lighting the way, and holding proudly the flag of the United States of America. Dressed in flowing robes, it’s a stirring piece of art. The back of each piece features a nice leather-like texture, in which is ‘stamped’ the American Reserve logo. Inscriptions are kept to a border area.

The range consists of four formats. There’s a solitary round in one-ounce of silver, featuring cropped artwork, but the bars are the focus here, we believe. Silver comes as a one-ounce, and a ten-ounce bar, a selection we think is well-balanced. For gold, there’s just a one-ounce bar, which, given the rise in the spot price of our favourite shiny metal, makes logical sense. Perhaps a little one-gram offering for the less well-heeled patriot wouldn’t be amiss? Anyway, all should be available to order from today. A fine debut.

PRESS RELEASE

Asahi Refining is proud to announce the latest addition of products to the American Reserve brand highlighting the iconic Columbia Goddess. The collection, designed by renowned American artist Joel Iskowitz, celebrates the rich heritage and enduring spirit of America, using gold and silver which has been mined, refined and fabricated all within the United States of America. The brand emphasizes American craftsmanship and quality, ensuring that every step, from extraction to production, stays within the country.

The Columbia Goddess, a personification of the United States, has been a symbol of liberty, democracy, and patriotism since the late 18th century. Historically depicted as a strong, graceful woman, Columbia represents the values and aspirations of the American people. Her image has graced everything from patriotic art to political cartoons, embodying the nation’s ideals and serving as a rallying figure during times of national significance.

Joel Iskowitz, one of the few living artists whose work has been displayed in the Pentagon, the Capitol, and the White House, has masterfully captured the essence of Columbia in this new collection. Iskowitz’s design reflects his deep appreciation for American history and his exceptional talent for bringing iconic symbols to life through his art.

“We are thrilled to introduce this new collection featuring the Columbia Goddess,” explains Matt Pragg, Commercial Manager for Asahi Refining North America. ‘As the largest precious metals refiner in the United States, Asahi Refining USA is uniquely positioned to offer this product line. Joel Iskowitz’s design beautifully captures the spirit of America, and we are proud to offer products that are made entirely in the USA. We believe it will be appreciated by collectors and patriots alike.’