Crafting Coins with Maps: Metal Composition and Jewelry Potential

Introduction: The Art of Coin Ring Making

Not every coin is suitable for crafting. Let me share my perspective as a coin ring artisan on the metal composition and durability of these fascinating map coins for jewelry making.

Understanding Metal Composition for Jewelry Crafting

When evaluating a coin for ring making, the first consideration is always the metal content. Different metals behave differently under the pressure and manipulation required to transform a coin into a wearable piece of art.

Silver Content Analysis

The Dutch commemorative coin featuring Manhattan’s map is particularly interesting from a crafting perspective. While I don’t have the exact specifications for this specific issue, Dutch commemorative coins from this era typically contain sterling silver (92.5% silver) or sometimes a lower silver content.

Silver is an excellent metal for coin ring making because:

• It has good malleability when properly annealed
• It takes a high polish
• It’s hypoallergenic for most wearers
• It’s dense enough to feel substantial as a ring

Metal Hardness Considerations

The hardness of the metal directly impacts how it will respond to the ring-making process. Silver, being a softer metal compared to copper-nickel clad coins, is generally easier to work with for crafting purposes.

However, the specific alloy composition matters significantly. A coin with too much copper content might be more prone to oxidation and discoloration over time, which could affect the longevity of the jewelry piece.

Design Details and Aesthetic Appeal

The Manhattan map design presents both opportunities and challenges for ring crafting.

Design Preservation Challenges

The intricate detail of the map, especially showing pre-WTC rebuild New York City, is remarkable. However, this level of detail creates a dilemma for ring makers:

When forming a coin into a ring, the outer edge becomes the top and bottom of the ring, while the center becomes the sides. This means much of the central map detail would be lost or distorted in the transformation.

Alternative Crafting Approaches

For a coin with such significant map detail, I would consider alternative approaches:

• Creating a bezel setting to preserve the entire coin face
• Making a pendant rather than a ring
• Using the coin as a decorative element in a larger piece

Comparing Different Map Coins

The discussion mentions several different map coins, each with unique characteristics for potential crafting.

The Dutch Manhattan Coin

This coin shows exceptional detail of Manhattan’s street grid. The toning visible in the images suggests natural aging, which could add character to a crafted piece. However, the fingerprint visible on one example raises concerns about proper handling and preservation.

The Greek 30 Drachma Coin

The 1963 Greek 30 Drachma featuring a map of Greece on the reverse offers different possibilities. With its silver composition (18.01 grams) and 34.0mm diameter, this coin has substantial weight and presence.

The obverse featuring five Greek kings adds historical interest, though this detail would be lost in most ring-making processes. The map design, being more geometric and less detailed than the Manhattan coin, might translate better to a ring format.

Technical Considerations for Crafting

Annealing Requirements

Silver coins require careful annealing between forming stages. This involves heating the metal to make it more malleable, then allowing it to cool slowly. The exact temperature depends on the specific alloy, but generally falls between 500-650°C for silver.

Thickness and Durability

The thickness of a coin directly impacts its suitability for ring making. Thicker coins (typically 2mm or more) are more durable as rings and less likely to warp during the forming process. Without exact specifications for these map coins, I would need to examine them personally to assess their crafting potential.

Historical and Collectible Value Considerations

As a crafter, I must always balance the artistic potential against the historical and collectible value of a coin.

Preservation vs. Transformation

The Manhattan coin, showing the city before the World Trade Center rebuild, has significant historical value. Some collectors might view transforming such a piece into jewelry as controversial. The fact that one collector already owned a proof version suggests these coins have established collectible status.

Provenance and Story

The story behind acquiring these coins adds to their appeal. The Dutch coin was obtained from a long-established coin dealer in Amsterdam’s Albert Cuyp area, described as “the last Jewish man in that area” dealing in coins and stamps. This provenance could add value to any crafted piece.

Practical Crafting Assessment

Silver Content Verification

Before crafting any coin, I would verify its metal content through:

• Magnetic testing (silver is non-magnetic)
• Specific gravity testing
• Professional assaying if necessary

Structural Integrity Check

I would examine the coin for:

• Any signs of previous cleaning or harsh treatment
• Edge condition and thickness consistency
• Surface scratches or damage that might worsen during crafting

Conclusion: Crafting Potential Assessment

Based on the available information, these map coins present interesting opportunities for jewelry crafting, with some important caveats:

The Dutch Manhattan coin: The exceptional detail and historical significance make it better suited for preservation rather than transformation into a ring. A pendant or bezel setting would better showcase the map design while maintaining the coin’s integrity.

The Greek 30 Drachma: With its silver content and more geometric map design, this coin has better potential for ring making. The simpler map design would translate more effectively to a ring format, and the silver content ensures durability and aesthetic appeal.

General considerations: Any map coin with significant historical or collectible value should be carefully evaluated before crafting. The story, provenance, and condition all factor into whether transformation into jewelry enhances or diminishes the piece’s overall value and appeal.

As a coin ring artisan, I find these map coins fascinating both for their artistic potential and their historical significance. While not every coin is suitable for crafting, those with the right metal composition, durability, and design elements can be transformed into truly unique pieces of wearable history.

Related Resources

You might also find these related articles helpful:

• Preserving Your NYC Map Coin: A Conservationist’s Guide to Proper Storage – The Delicate Art of Coin Preservation I’ve seen too many valuable pieces ruined by improper cleaning or storage. H…
• Grading the 400th Anniversary NYC Map Coin: A Professional’s Analysis – Historical Significance The 400th Anniversary of New York City commemorative coin stands as a remarkable piece of numism…
• Is Your 400th Anniversary NYC Coin Real? Authentication Guide for Dutch Commemoratives – Historical Significance The 400th Anniversary of New York City Dutch commemorative coin stands as one of the most intrig…