Animals are popular subjects on coinage around the world
Every country or region on Earth has its identifying wildlife. Australia has kangaroos and koalas. China has tigers and giant pandas. Africa has lions and elephants. America has deer, moose, bear, bison, bighorn sheep and more…
Symbolizing their native habitats
Animals often represent their native regions on coins around the world. They’re a welcome change from political leaders, government buildings and coats of arms! And they showcase the natural artistry of the animal kingdom! A commemorative 2017 U.S. silver dollar honoring the centennial of Lions Clubs International bears the majestic image of a lion family. China’s silver bullion series depicts the giant panda. Australia’s silver bullion coins depict kangaroos and other “down under” species.
Full-color wildlife images add impact
Wildlife coin designs are especially dramatic in full natural color. And color images of animals are seen more often on coins and paper money around the world (see Canada’s 2017 Black Bear $20 coin and Suriname’s 2000 Birds 4-note set). The U.S. Mint has yet to create color images of animals or other subjects on U.S. coins or paper money. But you can be sure they’re well aware of those from foreign mints and treasuries!
Exclusive sets of full-color coins
With the popularity of colorized coins, Littleton’s artists each year create full-color images on existing U.S. coins. The images are made with domed technology for detailed, uninterrupted designs. These exclusive sets feature Civil War and WWII leaders, Native American chiefs, legendary pirates, wonders of the ancient world, birds of America, U.S. landmarks and more.
Especially dramatic is our new 10-coin wildlife series. It features full-color images of America’s most famous animals on Kennedy half dollars. The set honors the American bison, bald eagle, white-tailed deer, Alaska moose and grizzly bear. Plus the mountain lion, grey wolf, American alligator, bighorn sheep and humpback whale. An informative, illustrated folder showcases the coins and each species.
Do you collect coins or paper money with full-color wildlife images? Please share your favorites with other readers.
