In 1988, the newly-created Gibraltar National Mint struck its first coin sample to coincide with the end-of-year festive season. Today, that 50-pence coin is selling for more than £250, a clear indication why the annual Christmas Commemorative Coin collection has remained hugely popular among collectors over the past three decades.
Sold complete with a Christmas card, the first commemorative coin was officially struck at the Mint by then Chief Minister Sir Joe Bossano. The initial offering was a huge success from day one, according to the government, first in Gibraltar then later globally, with some of the years now fetching 10 times their original value.
Thirty-two years later, the 2020 version of the coin was struck by the CEO of Gibraltar National Mint, Albert Poggio, as Sir Joe Bossano (now minister for economic development, enterprise, telecommunications and the Gibraltar Savings Bank) was not able to travel to London due to COVID-19 restrictions for seniors.
He was, however, able in November to unveil the 2020 Christmas Coin Collection at the Gibraltar Savings Bank. This year’s issue includes, for the first time, a £2 coin which is also available in a Christmas card format.
“This is the 32nd set that has been launched since we introduced the Christmas coin,” said Sir Joe, ”and the programme’s popularity is increasing year upon year, especially given that the exclusivity of these coins makes it extremely popular among collectors. I therefore have no doubt that this issue will also be very well received by the market.”
Members of the public can purchase the coins from the Gibraltar National Mint website (www.gibraltarnationalmint.gov.gi) or by email at: info@gibraltarnationalmint.gi or sales@gibraltarnationalmint.gi – or Tel. (+350) 200 48368.
Coin Specifications
FIFTY PENCE
Metal: Cupro-Nickel
Diameter: 27.3mm
Weight: 8gr
Finish: Circulating
Edition Limit: Unlimited
TWO POUNDS
Metal: Bi-metal
Diameter: 28.4mm
Weight: 12gr
Finish: Circulating
Edition Limit: Unlimited
FIFTY PENCE
Metal: Cupro-Nickel with Colour
Diameter: 27.3mm
Weight: 8gr
Finish: Brilliant Uncirculated
Packaging: Christmas Card
Edition Limit: 1,000
TWO POUNDS
Metal: Bi-metal with Colour
Diameter: 28.4mm
Weight: 12gr
Finish: Brilliant Uncirculated
Packaging: Christmas Card
Edition Limit: 1,000
Photos supplied by HM Government of Gibraltar