Building the ddddd ex-Soviet Nations Set: My Numismatic Adventure

I’ve always been fascinated by the detailed designs and rich history behind coins from the former Soviet republics. It all started when I came across Kazakhstan’s amazing bimetallic space coins. Seeing how Austria used silver and niobium in their coins, I set out to create a set of one professionally graded silver coin from each of the fifteen independent republics that emerged after 1991. What began as a simple goal quickly turned into an exciting adventure, growing to include coins from neighboring regions and even some disputed territories. This collection has truly become a passion project.

The Core Fifteen Republics

I set strict rules for the core set: every coin had to be silver, minted after 1991, and professionally graded. Here are some of my favorites, which really show off the variety and beauty of these coins:

• Armenia (2007, 1000 Dram): Graded PCGS PR 69 DCAM, this beauty features local plants and animals. With only 500 made in the Czech Republic, it’s a real rarity that shows why low mintage coins are so special.
• Azerbaijan (2015, 5 Manat): This wrestling-themed NGC PF 70 UCAM stunner from the Royal Mint taught me patience – I lost my first auction bid but found it cheaper later. Only 1,000-1,100 exist.
• Belarus (2014, 20 Roubles): Featuring “The Legend of the Bullfinch,” this PCGS PR 70 DCAM piece from Lithuania proves modern coins can be top-tier. Just 2,000 were minted.
• Estonia (2010, 25 krooni): A great starter coin with 15,000 minted. I love its historical theme and the PCGS PR 70 DCAM quality doesn’t hurt!
• Georgia (2019, 5 Lari): Its unique rectangular shape celebrating postal history caught my eye. Only 1,500 were made in Poland.
• Kazakhstan (2013, 500 Tenge): My absolute favorite! The “Homeland of Apples” PCGS PR 70 DCAM coin has stunning contrast. I’m glad I hunted it early – just 7,000 exist.
• Kyrgyzstan (2017, 10 Som): This NGC PF 69 UCAM piece on the Kyrgyz Khaganate shows how regional history makes collections meaningful. Only 1,000 exist.
• Latvia (2004, 1 Lats): The bimetallic silver and niobium design from Austria makes it stand out – innovative compositions can really elevate a collection.
• Russia (2010, 3 Roubles): Part of their Lunar series, this PCGS PR 70 DCAM coin shows how common themes gain new life in different contexts. 15,000 minted.
• Tajikistan (2010, 5 Somoni): Graded NGC PF 67 UCAM for the EurAsEC anniversary. Tracking down one of the 2,000 minted took real persistence.
• Turkmenistan (2011, 20 Manat): Independence-themed with just 300 made. Still looking for one that won’t break the bank – wish me luck!
• Ukraine (2013, 10 Hryven): I grabbed this heritage coin straight from mint reps at an ANA show. Nothing beats finding treasures in person.

Lithuania and Uzbekistan are still missing from my collection – some coins make you wait for the right opportunity.

Add-Ons and Disputed Territories

As my collection grew, I started adding coins from places like Afghanistan and Mongolia. I relaxed my rules about silver and grading to focus on designs I loved. I also got into coins from disputed territories, which added an extra layer of interest because they’re not always officially recognized:

• Afghanistan (1995, 500 Afghanis): A UN anniversary coin graded PCGS PR 69 DCAM I found at auction – perfect for history buffs.
• Mongolia (2021, 500 Togrog): The “Wild Mongolia” theme in PCGS PR 69 DCAM proves modern coins can rival classics in artistry.
• Disputed Territories: Pieces like Transnistria’s steel coin or South Ossetia’s bimetallic item might be semi-official, but they tell fascinating stories. I even use custom slabs for fun (though I always verify authenticity).

These additions taught me an important lesson: collecting should be about what speaks to you, not just strict rules. If a coin fits your theme and sparks joy, it deserves a spot.

Collecting Insights and Practical Tips

Here’s what I’ve learned along the way that might help fellow collectors:

Finding coins takes creativity – eBay can be unpredictable with some sellers asking sky-high prices. I’ve had the best luck with no-reserve auctions or collectors downsizing their holdings. Remember my Azerbaijan coin? Patience paid off there. Don’t skip coin shows either – I’ve found incredible pieces at ANA events just by chatting with dealers.

For the main republic coins, grading is essential. I aim for high DCAM or UCAM grades (PR 70 when possible) to maintain value. Even for disputed territory coins, I slab them for protection. Keep an eye out for low-mintage pieces like Turkmenistan’s – they’re expensive but worth tracking at auction. And learn from my mistake: don’t underbid! I’m still kicking myself over that Uzbekistan coin I missed.

Design Highlights and Encouragement

What I love most about this collection is how each coin tells a cultural story – like Kazakhstan’s apple coin with its gilded finish or Kyrgyzstan’s “Heavily Armed Warrior.” They often outshine modern US issues in my opinion.

If you’re starting your own collection, begin with accessible coins like Estonia or Russia before tackling rarer ones. Choose pieces that capture each nation’s spirit, and remember – half the fun is in the hunt itself. Happy collecting! I hope your journey brings you as much joy as mine has.