It’s ANA time again and while the flow of new issues isn’t as intense as that emanating from the Berlin World Money Fair, it’s easily a close second. One of the perennial favourites at this show is CIT Coin Invest and their new issues are eagerly awaited. For the first time ever, we’ve been allowed to talk about the new ANA coins ahead of time and the first one we’re looking at is the third in the impressive Skull series of dimensional coins.

Launching back in 2016, the original Skull No.1 was a big hit and an impressive demonstration of CIT and BH Mayers ‘Smartminting’ technology. The combination of incredible relief and detail while maintaining the highest quality has helped cement the technology as the industry buzzword and it’s gone on to enhance some quite fantastic numismatic designs. Last year saw a larger version called Big Skull, as well as a pirate-themed addition of regular size.

The skull has had significant influence on the art and practices of many cultures, but while that has waned in many places it’s as popular as ever in Mexico with Día de Muertos – literally the day of the dead. The most primal and recognisable symbol of the event is the decorated skull. CIT have taken the original Skull No.1 concept and applied that style of decoration to produce a great tribute piece for an event that has spread its influence far outside the borders of Mexico. That this piece can contain as much detail and relief in just an ounce of silver is quite extraordinary.

Antique-finished and with a mintage of 1,750 pieces, the coin will be presented in a themed tin and with a certificate of authenticity. As you would expect coming from the coin producer that has doone more than any other to popularise the format, there will be a 0.5 g fine gold issue to sit alongside the flagship silver design. With so little metal to work with it’s obviously not a replica of its big brother, but a well detailed piece for the collector regardless. Both will be available for order shortly and will ship around September. An eclectic and quite unique series.