Biblical Coin Series Releases Final Issues
The Scottsdale Mint concludes its popular “Biblical Series” collection.
The end times have come at the Scottsdale Mint, and it looks beautiful. The U.S. private mint has released the final two editions of its popular "Biblical Series," which showcases the artwork of acclaimed nineteenth-century French artist Gustave Doré on 2-ounce silver antique finish coins.
Beginning in 2016, the series has been presented in six coins annually that feature scenes from some of the most well-known moments in the Christian Bible. Past designs explore the story of David and Goliath (2015), the baptism of Jesus (2017), and the tower of Babel (2023). Collector cases fashioned as worn leather bibles are also available for purchase.
The series' final year has recently ended with two coins that depict powerful moments in the Bible: The Last Judgement and The Resurrection. On the "Last Judgement" coin, Christ radiates with a halo, and his arms are outstretched while sitting on a throne as the reckoning of souls surrounds him. The "Resurrection" coin is equally emotional. It portrays Christ rising from the tomb with his arms lifted toward the sky.
Each design in the series features the artwork of Gustave Doré (1832—1883). The artist is best recognized for his wood engravings of the Bible and classic literature, which are evocative, emotionally fueled scenes achieved by a chiaroscuro treatment of light and dark. The artwork in the Scottsdale Mint's series replicates Doré's 241 collection of wood engravings that illustrate a deluxe edition of the "La Grande Bible de Tours" (1843).
Interested in collecting this series? NumisMaster Market Analyst Jeff Starck has some advice. "Folks just getting introduced to this popular series will find the earliest issues are significant stoppers when it comes to price," says Starck. "The most famous Bible stories are understandably the most popular and thus have higher price tags. Someone not intent on being a completionist could collect a nice selection of the often haunting and effective designs, which are fittingly displayed through a high relief finish, without having to go all-in at the higher price."
Coins from the "Biblical Series" are available on the Scottsdale Mint's website.
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