Stack’s Bowers and Ponterio is proud to offer another important rarity from the modern Chinese series featured in our December inaugural Macau Showcase Auction. This 1992 12-ounce gold Panda is graded Proof-69 Deep Cameo by PCGS and is from an original mintage of only 99 pieces. These were distributed to collectors outside of China, and in recent times, collectors in China have been keenly “repatriating” these coins that were unobtainable at the time of issue.
An endearing feature of the Chinese Panda series is that each year, the motif changes — a single panda is replaced by a family of pandas (as is seen on the 1992 series), an adult panda on a mound (described as a mother) overlooks a pair of adorable cubs, one of which is drinking from a flowing stream. The family is surrounded by stylized foliage. While originally issued as a bullion series (comparable to the South African Krugerrand, Canadian Maple Leaf, American Eagle, etc.), by issuing different designs each year, the Chinese Panda has become a popular collectible series, with many issues carrying a strong premium over their intrinsic value.
Be sure to check out this impressive 12-ounce Panda, as well as other important modern and classic Chinese and Asian numismatic items in our December inaugural Macau auction sale. If you are not currently on our mailing list, our auction sale is available online at www.stacksbowers.com, and you can download a virtual catalog. You may also contact one of our customer service representatives to have a copy mailed to you. We are currently accepting consignments to the April 2015 Stack’s Bowers and Ponterio Hong Kong auction until January 15. Contact one of our consignment directors to discuss your holdings and allow our experts to maximize the value of your Asian numismatic items.