Richmond Hill, ON – Thursday, October 26 marks 888 Auctions’ inaugural auction dedicated to numismatic items with a special focus on Chinese gold and silver panda coins. The 426-lot auction will also be featuring rare coins from all over the world and will also be accompanied by 888 Auctions’ usual complement of Asian fine and decorative arts, including finely carved jadeite objects, porcelain ceramics, furniture and jewelry.

Released for the first time in 1982 (Gold) and 1983 (Silver) by the People’s Bank of China, the Chinese Panda continues to be one of the most eagerly awaited collectibles on the bullion market. Numismatic enthusiasts anxiously anticipate each coin issue due to their yearly changing reverse image with each year depicting a new representation of the country’s beloved panda bear – with the sole exception of 2002 and 2001 sharing the same design. Additionally, unlike other mint-issued collectible coins, Chinese panda coins accrue in numismatic value proving its worth over time. Therefore, 888 Auctions is delighted to feature eight 1-ounce Chinese Fine Proof Gold (.999) Panda Coins and five 1-ounce Chinese Fine Proof Silver (.999) Panda Coins. From the gold panda coins, Lot 259A is the standout coin out of the group. A 1988 100 Yuan Fine Gold (.999) Panda Coin has been graded MS 68 and carries a high estimate of $2,500, which far outstrips its bullion price. The obverse features the Hall of Prayer for Abundant Harvest. Encircling the design is the engraving “People’s Republic of China,” written in Chinese, and the year of mintage, “1988.” The reverse displays an adorable panda bear image seated and holding bamboo. All our panda coins are 100% guaranteed authentic.

Other gold and silver coins can also be found at the following lots:

Lot 187: Chinese Silver Boat Money (Yuanbao) Jiaqing Mark and Possibly of the Period (High Estimate: $1,800)

Lot 260: 1987 2-Coin Proof Gold American Eagle Set accompanied with COA (High Estimate: $3,500)

Lot 261: 2014 RMC Issue .999 Fine Gold $5 Dollar Coin accompanied with COA (High Estimate: $300)

888 Auctions continues to hold auctions monthly with the next auction taking place November 2nd, 2017. Consignments are always welcome and valuations or authentications are provided free of charge with no obligations. For consignments as well as jadeite, gems, and precious metal analysis, please contact 888 Auctions’ JadeLab at support@888auctions.com

For auction previews, visit the auction house. The gallery floor will be open Monday, October 23 from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.; Tuesday, October 24th from 11a.m. to 6 p.m.; Wednesday, October 25th from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. and just before the auction on Thursday, October 26th from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.