It doesn’t matter if you’re a fan or not, when you think classic science-fiction, you think of Star Trek. Debuting back in 1966 and continuing for three seasons, the original Star Trek series has rightly taken its place as one of the finest, and most groundbreaking sci-fi series of all time. It was to be a further decade before Trek returned to screens, and since then there have been twelve movies with another on the way, multiple television series, with another on the way, and literally thousands of books, comics and pieces of memorabilia. Now experiencing a new renaissance with the JJ Abrams series, Trek looks like it will continue to have a long life.

Last year the Perth Mint announced that it had the rights to produce coins based on the Star Trek franchise. They went on to release eleven coins last year featuring the Captains and their vessels from the five live-action series, and have just released a gilded bar that looks like Ferengi currency. They continue to hold the license and we expect coins based around the new movie to put in an appearance this year. In what can be seen as something of a surprise, the Royal Canadian Mint have also released a line of eleven coins that concentrate solely on the original series and the 50th anniversary this year. Quite how this all works is a bit of a mystery at present, but there’s no denying the RCM seem to have done a fine job with their contribution to Trek memorabilia.

The releases are to be spread out over the next few months, and sit in several groups. The $20 for $20 coin is a great design and the last of three of the face value coins to be launched in 2016 we understand, after Batman v Superman, and Tyrannosaurus Rex coins. Likewise the base metal coin and the gold Delta badge design are standalones. The two big series are both struck in silver and selectively coloured. There’s a ½oz set of four that features members of the original series crew, and there’s a 1oz set of four that depicts scenes from some of the very best episodes. The design and packaging on all of them look first class, and as the coin releases will be spread from May to October, they should be more accessible than would otherwise have been the case with a simultaneous release.

We like these, up there with the superb Looney Tunes coins and far better than the Superman releases. With the gold already seeming to be sought after, and the $20 for $20 coin apparently selling quickly, it looks like the RCM has a hit on its hands.

$20 FOR $20 STARSHIP ENTERPRISE

The reverse design features an iconic depiction of the starship U.S.S. Enterprise (NCC-1701) in space. Detailed engraving showcases the distinctive appearance of the Enterprise, from the rounded edges of her saucer-shaped hull to the twin warp nacelles at the rear. The image captures a tension-filled scene in which the Enterprise fires from its forward phaser bank towards an enemy threat that lies beyond the image field. Engraved to the right of the ship is a special Delta Shield Insignia that celebrates the 50 anniversary of the original Star Trek television series (1966-1969).

2016 $10 STAR TREK CREW

Very nice set of four of the most iconic characters from the original Star Trek series, each having a painted image of the character alongside a struck image of a gadget the character is often associated with. We must admit some surprise that there isn’t a Doctor McCoy coin given he’s one of the three most important characterss in the show. Packaging is excellently designed, and at $54.95, not hugely expensive. We like these a lot. Kirk is available today, Scotty on 05 July, Uhura on 02 August, and Spock on 06 September.

2016 STAR TREK DELTA GOLD COIN

This one has been pre-selling at a very rapid rate, but for us it’s the least successful design of all the coins. The shape is great, but the reverse side inscriptions are very intrusive, the Trek 50th logo would’ve been a far better match. It’s success seems assured at an early stage at least. Selling for $1299.95, the aftermarket is already bumping these up even though it doesn’t ship until 06 September.

DESIGN: Worn by the crewmembers of the U.S.S. Enterprise, the delta-shaped Starfleet insignia serves as the embodiment of Star Trek’s hopeful vision of our future. As the television series celebrates its 50th anniversary, this uniquely shaped coin pays tribute to an icon that represents how far our imaginations can take us, and what we can aspire to be. This is the world’s first delta-shaped coin: Unique engraving techniques recreate the smooth, arrowhead-shaped insignia that has become associated with the U.S.S. Enterprise, Starfleet, and the Star Trek universe!

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2016 STAR TREK FAMOUS EPISODES

This could well be the most liked series of the whole launch. The first coin available today features the Enterprise in orbit around a planet – a scene from the episode I, Mudd, and like the other three coins, is selectively coloured on the reverse face. The second coin features one of Treks very best episodes, the time-travelling City on the Edge of Forever, and will be available on 02 August. Coming on 06 September is another classic episode tribute, Mirror, Mirror. Appearing last on 04 October will be The Trouble With Tribbles, an episode played for laughs and one of Star Treks most loved stories.

While the coin designs are relatively unambitious, the choice of subject and the implementation is spot-on and likely to be very popular. Priced at $109.95 each and with a mintage of 11,500, we think these will be a hit.

2016 25-CENT COIN AND STAMP SET

This one is a simple base-metal coin, but the design is good, featuring the original Enterprise from six different angles. Packaged in a gatefold card, there are three stamps included within including a great depiction of a Klingon D7 Battlecruiser. Selling for $34.95, it is available from today.

DESIGN: Beloved by millions, the original television series Star Trek has arguably helped shape the everyday lives of Canadians through its spirit of scientific innovation and discovery. As the series celebrates its 50th anniversary, the Royal Canadian Mint presents an unforgettable coin and stamp set that pairs a coin with three collectible stamps by Canada Post, all presented in commemorative packaging. The application of vibrant colour creates a stunning backdrop on the coin’s reverse, while the six different views of the Enterprise allow fans to examine the iconic ship from every angle. Own your very own Enterprise! This special set includes a Star Trek-themed coin and three collectible stamps, all in one unforgettable package.