My Numismatic Safari: Embracing Four Legged Fridays with Furry Creature Coins

I’ve completely fallen for a little ritual I call “Four Legged Fridays”—every week, I pull out coins, tokens, or medals featuring furry critters from around the globe. It’s become my favorite way to enjoy animal-themed coins, and I’ve picked up some great tips along the journey.

The Charm of Animal Coins

There’s something special about coins that capture wildlife in metal. Whether it’s a regal lion or a mythical griffin, these pieces connect us to nature and tell stories about past cultures. Limiting my focus to four-legged friends gives my collection a fun theme—every discovery feels like uncovering buried treasure.

My Collection Highlights

Over the years, I’ve found some real stunners that show the incredible variety in this niche. A few personal favorites include:

• A Sicilo-Punic coin with Tanit’s profile opposite a galloping horse—much like SNG Cop 1024. The ancient craftsmanship still takes my breath away.
• Tokens that weren’t official currency but feature stunning animal engravings, like a recent find with a stag in such high relief you can almost feel its fur.
• Coins packed with multiple creatures—lions, griffins, and stags sharing one small canvas. I adore how these tiny artworks tell whole stories.

Collecting Tips I’ve Learned

If you’re drawn to animal coins too, here’s what I’d suggest:

• Start with hobo nickels—like that Franklin moose piece I spotted on eBay. Since they’re hand-carved, examine tool marks closely and ask about provenance to spot fakes. Grading mostly hinges on how sharp the animal design remains.
• Notice those little design touches—mounds or raised reliefs can make all the difference. I’ve found that crisp details boost both beauty and value, especially on well-loved coins.
• When evaluating condition, prioritize the animal figures. Look for clear features with minimal wear. Unusual creatures tend to be rarer, so keep good records when you find them!

What the Market’s Showing

Lately, I’ve seen animal coins heating up at auctions—especially pieces with exotic or mythical beasts. Older coins like those Sicilo-Punic examples often gain value from their historical weight. And don’t overlook precious metals: silver or gold animal coins can be both beautiful and wise additions to your holdings.

My “Four Legged Fridays” have deepened my love for this hobby, weaving together history, art, and the natural world. Give it a try—you might just find yourself counting down to Fridays like I do!