Crystal Skull

[bsa_pro_ad_space id=4]

July 12, 2018 – Vanitas – the notion that everything that is born must die – inspired this latest issue in the successful “Skulls” series. This time we are dealing with a traditionally shaped, circular coin that, however, is outstanding with regard to its complex manufacturing process. It was designed by CIT Coin Invest AG for Equatorial Guinea.

Equatorial Guinea / 1,000 Francos CFA / .999 silver / 1 oz. / 38.61 mm / Mintage: 1,750.

The heart of the Vanitas realization, the skull, is very special. Its upper part is made of sparkling Swarovski® crystal, the jaw is struck in high relief. The coin shimmers black, the color of death, an effect that B. H. Mayer’s Kunstprägeanstalt creates by using a very specific processing technique called Black Proof. Thanks to the patented smartminting technology, the red roses stand out from the coin’s surface, additionally highlighted by intense color application. Since ancient times they symbolize love; as cut flowers, however, they symbolize the transience of love and beauty. Their thorns are a reminder that joy without pain and love without fear of losing the other has no appeal. 

A very special frosting of the surface creates the impression of rising smoke, another symbol of the ephemeral nature of all things and a completely new technology. The fact that three elements of the image are exempted from the Black Proof treatment speaks to the coin’s extremely high degree of technical sophistication: The inscription VANIDAD in the upper left field, the thorny rose stem on the bottom right as well as the small year of issue in the exergue retain the original coin surface. While Skull No 1 and Pirate Skull stood out for their innovative high relief, this coin unites several new technologies in a single collector’s object. 

If you want to get a closer look at this coin, watch the video clip that was produced by CIT.

You can learn more about the Coin Invest Trust and especially about the Crystal Skull coin on the official website.