Commemorative coin

What is a commemorative coin?

A commemorative coin is issued to mark a person, event or anniversary. Its design distinguishes the issue from ordinary coinage. The term covers special collector issues and circulating coins with commemorative designs. A commemorative coin is not necessarily made of precious metal.

Norwegian issues

Norges Bank has issued gold and silver commemorative coins as well as circulating coins with special designs. The centenary of the dissolution of the union was marked by three gold and three silver coins issued in 2003, 2004 and 2005. Identify an individual coin by year, denomination and design rather than the series name alone.

Coin or medal?

A commemorative medal may resemble a coin and use the same metal, but it has no stated monetary denomination. Check the issuing authority, denomination and issue details against a reliable catalogue or issuer's records. A portrait, presentation box or certificate does not by itself establish that an item is a coin. Issuer, manufacturer and retailer may be different organisations.

Metal, proof and condition

Check weight and fineness for the exact issue. A silvery surface does not establish silver content. “Proof” describes a special minting process using specially prepared blanks and dies. It does not guarantee that the coin remains flawless. Scratches, spots and handling marks require separate assessment.

Collector value

Face value, metal value and resale value are different measures. Compare documented sales of the same variant with similar condition and accessories. Mintage, demand, original capsule, case and documentation can matter. An old purchase price or high asking price does not establish current value.

Sources

Norges Bank: commemorative coins, Norges Bank: centenary issues 2003 to 2005, U.S. Mint: coin, medal and proof, U.S. Mint: minting process and collector coins.