From Netherlands, A Gold Double Ducat With A Long History

When the American Numismatic Association held its convention last month in Cincinnati, the Dutch Mint unveiled its 1988 gold double ducat, the third issue of the coin in this decade. The double ducat was first issued in 1607 as a legal trade coin, and was then reissued in 1854 and 1867.

The new 26-mm coin is struck in .983 fine gold and weighs 6.988 grams. The design replicates the early strikes, showing an armed warrior with arrows in his hand and encircled by the Latin motto, "Concordia res parvae Crescunt" (Unity makes small things great). The reverse shows a tablet with the legend "Mo. Aur. Reg. Belgii ad Legem Imperii" (Gold coin of the Kingdom of the Netherlands according to the law of the empire).

The coin, which follows issues in 1985 and 1986, has been released in proof-like strike. (In 1989, the Dutch Mint will strike its first silver ducat.) The new gold double ducat will be sold for $185 at the mint's North American office, Box 1057, Clifton, N.J. 07014. Add $2.75 for shipping.

MAPLE LEAF COINS. The Royal Canadian Mint will begin producing platinum and silver Maple Leaf bullion investment coins, both legal tender. Dates for launching the new coins have not been settled, and mint master Maurice LaFontaine said that the release would depend somewhat on market conditions.

A mint spokesman said the platinum Maple Leaf, in .9995 platinum, eventually will be produced in four sizes: one ounce, 1/2 ounce, 1/4 ounce and 1/10 ounce. The silver Maple Leaf, in .9999 fine metal, will be struck only in one-ounce weights. Both will share the design of the present gold Maple Leaf.

Canada has one of the world's major sources of platinum ore, and the mint spokesman said that the growing interest in platinum as an investment had prompted the expansion of the Maple Leaf program. Japan has become the chief market for platinum bullion.

DESIGN COMPETITION. A contest for the design of a medal marking the fifth anniversary of the Industry Council for Tangible Assets has been announced. The winner will receive $500.

The design will have to include the full name of the council and depict a scene, figures or image suggesting the protection and promotion of the industry. The council is a trade association made up of coin and metals dealers. Queries go to Howard Segermark at the council, 25 E St. N.W., Washington, D.C. 20001.

EVENTS

GREATER NORTHEAST COIN SHOW 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. today, Fiesta Motor Lodge, Rte 611 south of Pa. Turnpike exit 27.

WEST CHESTER COIN AUCTION 1 p.m. today, West Chester Inn, Rte 202, West Chester.

BRISTOL COIN AUCTION 7 p.m. today, Bristol Motor Inn, Rte 13 at Pa.

Turnpike exit 29.

VALLEY FORGE COIN CLUB 7:30 p.m. Tue, Valley Forge Presbyterian Church, Prince Frederick & Towncenter Rds, King of Prussia.

ISRAEL NUMISMATIC SOCIETY OF SOUTH JERSEY 8 p.m. Wed, Temple Beth Sholom, White Horse Pike, Haddon Heights.

MARPLE-NEWTOWN COIN CLUB 8 p.m. Wed, Marple Municipal Building, Sproul & Springfield Aves, Broomall.