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New
Design for 2003 Panda Coins
The popularity
of China's Panda coins owes a lot to the annual design changes
since they were introduced in 1982. So it was somewhat surprising
when a freeze of the design was announced with the 2001 issues
… and thus the 2002 Pandas were identical to 2001. But
collectors spoke up in behalf of annual changes, and China has
responded by reversing their policy, and announcing new designs
for the 2003 Pandas.
And there
is another dramatic change that is not quite so apparent on
the new silver and gold Pandas. They have diagonally reeded
edges … in stark contrast to the usual vertical striations.
The realistic
new Panda is shown facing, surrounded by its favorite food
- bamboo. The reverse features the Temple of Heaven in Beijing,
built in the Ming Dynasty (1368-1644); it is the largest architectural
complex extant in China.
The 2003
Brilliant Uncirculated 1 oz. pure silver Panda is priced at
$17.95. The pure gold Panda coins are available in standard
sizes of 1/20 oz. at $40, 1/10 oz. at $55, 1/4 oz. at $120,
1/2 oz. at $225, and price on request for the 1 oz. coin.
Orders are being accepted by official distributor PandaAmerica,
3460 Torrance Blvd., Suite 100, Torrance, CA 90503; phone
(800) 472-6327. Add $5 per order for shipping.
Prepared
by Mel Wacks
Chilk
Here to Shop for 2003 Panda Coins
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