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

I’ve always loved the history and artistry behind coins from the former Soviet nations. That fascination really took hold when I stumbled upon Kazakhstan’s beautiful bimetallic space series years ago. That discovery sparked my mission to build a complete set of silver coins from all fifteen ex-Soviet republics – each minted after 1991 and professionally graded. Along the way, I couldn’t resist adding ‘bonus pieces’ from places like Afghanistan and Mongolia, plus some disputed territories. It’s become quite the adventure! Today, I’ll share what I’ve learned about the coins themselves, how I’ve approached collecting them, and why this set means so much to me.

The Core Fifteen Republics: Building the Foundation

My collection centers on silver coins struck after independence, with most certified by PCGS or NGC for peace of mind. Armenia’s 2007 1000 Dram Flora and Fauna coin started it all for me – a PCGS PR 69 DCAM beauty with just 500 minted. Kazakhstan’s 2013 ‘Homeland of Apples’ piece still takes my breath away with its gilded proof and reverse proof contrast. Then there’s Kyrgyzstan’s 2017 Age of the Kyrgyz Khaganate coin – that low mintage of 1,000 and NGC PF 69 UCAM grade made it irresistible. Finding Ukraine’s 2013 heritage coin at an ANA show felt like kismet. Some other favorites in the set:

• Azerbaijan’s 2015 Wrestling coin: Struck by the Royal Mint and graded NGC PF 70 UCAM – truly top-tier
• Belarus’s 2014 Legend of the Bullfinch: PCGS PR 70 DCAM with only 2,000 made – perfect for rarity seekers
• Estonia’s 2010 History coin: Pure 0.999 silver and PCGS PR 70 DCAM quality
• Russia’s 2010 Year of the Tiger: From their Lunar series, PCGS PR 70 DCAM – shows their range

I’m still hunting for just the right Lithuania and Uzbekistan pieces – waiting for that sweet spot where grade and price align. And Turkmenistan? Well, let’s just say I haven’t found one yet that doesn’t make my wallet wince, especially with eBay prices often north of $200.

Beyond the Basics: Adding Character Pieces

Once the core set took shape, I started eyeing coins from places like Afghanistan and Mongolia – countries with deep regional ties. Here, I eased my rules: grading and silver content became optional, but I still sought pieces that spoke to me at sensible prices. Afghanistan’s 1995 UN Anniversary coin (PCGS PR 69 DCAM) is a mystery gem – nobody seems to know its mintage! Mongolia’s 2021 Wild Mongolia wolf coin grabbed me with its powerful design and limited run of 2,500. Then come the conversation starters from disputed territories like Transnistria and South Ossetia. Their unofficial issues, often in base metals, feel fragile yet fascinating. Take Transnistria’s 2020 wildcat coin – steel with nickel plating – or South Ossetia’s 2013 bimetallic piece I included for its historical weight.

Collecting Wisdom: Finding, Funding, and Grading

Tracking down these coins requires some hustle. I’ve had luck on eBay (no-reserve auctions can yield surprises), Great Collections, and face-to-face at ANA shows. Patience pays – after losing an Uzbekistan coin at auction, I scored an Azerbaijan piece later via buy-it-now for less. Prices fluctuate wildly; Turkmenistan and Uzbekistan pieces often carry hefty premiums. Set a budget and wait for your moment. Always grade with PCGS or NGC – those PR 70 DCAM or PF 70 UCAM designations really matter, especially with mintages under 5,000. Choose coins with cultural stories like Armenia’s flora or Kyrgyzstan’s history – they’ll hold interest better than generic bullion long-term.

Why This Set Captures My Heart

Kyrgyzstan’s coin tops my list – its design and scarcity make it a showstopper. Kazakhstan’s apple coin runs a close second with its artistic dual finishes. These pieces outshine many modern US releases through their distinctive national character and limited runs. I adore how Kazakhstan’s fruit theme unexpectedly complements Armenia’s botanical designs too. Building this set has taught me to value each coin’s narrative – whether Ukraine’s heritage or Mongolia’s wilderness. If you’re starting, begin with accessible finds like Estonia or Russia before chasing rarities. It’s a journey weaving together history, artistry, and that addictive collector’s thrill – absolutely worth every moment.