Last November, Numiscollect debuted a new series called ‘Thirst for Discovery’ that contrasts the early explorers with what will ultimately come from their discoveries. It was a really nice design, depicting Christopher Columbus making landfall in the New World back in the 15th century on the reverse face, with the obverse showcasing what a future Martian colony might look like, complete with rocket and an astronaut.

It’s a clever comparison, brought to life with splendid smartminted high relief on both faces. The original coin was a two ounce fine silver piece with a proof finish and a 333 mintage. What we have here is identical in every respect, except it has a black proof finish,  quite similar in appearance to ruthenium or rhodium plating, but is a proprietary CIT/BH Mayer technique. In addition, the mintage is a tiny 99 pieces. It’s available to order now