Symphony of Silver and Gold: The Austrian Mint’s Virtuoso Philharmonic Coins
Silver and gold philharmonic coins from Austria are unique pieces for both casual and avid coin collectors. These commemorative coins are created in honor of the Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra. The first Vienna Philharmonic gold bullion coin was created in 1989. The collection is available worldwide today through collectors, coin dealers and the Austrian Mint.
The Orchestra
The Vienna Philharmonic has a history of more than 160 years in Austria’s capital city. Only the finest musicians are permitted to play with the orchestra, which features a variety of conductors on its worldwide tours. Venues include Germany, France and Japan. Each year, the philharmonic is home in time for its New Year’s Day concert in Vienna. The tradition began during Austria’s dark period as a reminder of happier and simpler times. It continues today with a worldwide broadcast which focuses mostly on the works of the Johan Strauss family. The philharmonic’s humanitarian mission has been self-defined as one that daily communicates the musical message to its listeners and their consciousness. The Vienna Philharmonic was designated a Goodwill Ambassador by the World Health Organization in 2005.
Images
The silver and gold coins feature on one side the organ from the Golden Hall in Vienna, where the philharmonic plays its annual New Year’s Day concert. It also has raised lettering stating the year of issue, the weight, face value and grade. The reverse side of the coins show a collection of musical instruments played in the orchestra.
Gold
The Vienna Philharmonic coin is made of 24 karat pure gold and is presently offered in weights of one-half ounce, one-quarter ounce and one-tenth ounce, as well as one full ounce. Each is valued daily according to the international gold market. It can be sold worldwide. Previous years have offered other weights of limited editions in 1,000 ounces and 20 ounces. The 20-ounce piece represented the 20th anniversary of the Vienna Philharmonic commemorative coin.
Silver
The commemorative silver coin is marked with 1,5 Euros on it, which is the true face value if the coin, not the market value if it were to be sold or traded in the world of numismatics. It contains one ounce of silver, or 31.103 grams. At 37 millimeters wide, it has a thickness of 3.2 millimeters. In 2008, it was the first silver bullion coin presented by the Austrian Mint made in Euros.
Numbers
The number of coins made each year is determined by the coin’s popularity. The World Gold Council proclaimed the Vienna Philharmonics as the best selling gold coins in 1992, 1995 and 1996.
Presentation
The Vienna Philharmonic gold coins are available in an exclusive choice of two presentations. Investors often choose from hardwood or velvet to showcase the unique coins. They can be purchased as a single coin in a box or as a set of four in a box.
Mint
The Austrian Mint produces various coins commemorating Austrian history through an artistic and creative collection. Aside from the Vienna Philharmonic, other gold coin subjects have included the Austrian monarchy, composers and historical moments.
For more details about Philharmonic coins please visit the Austrian Mint’s official Website at austrian-mint.at. For more information about other 1 oz coins and silver bullion please visit Buysilvercoins.org.uk.
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