Introduction
Coins are more than just the medium for commerce; they also become a canvas on which nations can give a glimpse of their history, culture, and even, at times, any hidden messages that they may be harboring. Coins represent many, many things.
This comparative article gives an insight into nine extraordinary coins minted in different parts of the world. Each of these coins holds a secret message or symbol, so something different can be said about the circumstances. These coins reveal mysteries and tales hidden behind the coins we all use everyday in our daily life for just a glimpse into the unknown.
US Dollar Coin
Included in one dollar coins minted in the United States of America is an unusual symbol, found in a triangle, which has been dubbed the Eye of Providence, an inscription often used among Freemasons, because it is a symbol of God’s omnipresent eye as it watches over mankind. The verso of the Great Seal of the United States of America also carries the same sign.
If you look around very closely, you can find it there. The conviction for freedom and belief in divine direction are two of the basic concepts that are represented by this insignia as a reminder of the principles of their country.
UK 2-Pound Coin
To mark the length of World War II, a pattern of dots and dashes is included in the British two-pound coin design along the edge of the border on the coin. That was for aesthetics in the piece. That series of dots and dashes are Morse code, spelling the word “1945,” which marked the year the war ended. The code-breakers, who played their part in the allies’ victory, are subtly yet powerfully recognized.
Loonies are Canadian one dollar coins that usually sport a hidden loon-a bird in the design. Loonies are also a common name for the coins. During the Winter Olympics held during 2002, Canada took home the gold in hockey. On this day, a Loonie was buried beneath the ice. This secret loon is said to bring good luck because it was buried beneath the ice. The idea became an instant hit right after the Canadian dollar was buried in the ice.
The Canadian ‘Lucky Loonie’
The neckline of the queen is surrounded by a small five-pointed star which can be found on the Australian dollar coin. This star is positioned in the neckline of the queen.
This star, being the emblem of the Commonwealth, is used aptly to pay tribute to Australia’s connection with the British monarchy and her standing in the Commonwealth of Nations. This star is also symbolic of the Commonwealth.
The Australian Dollar
There is the Owl of Athena in the Greek mythology representing knowledge and mind, which incidentally appears on so many different currencies, for instance, the Euro, as well as other currencies with very similar designs.
This owl has been worn as a disguise beneath the design of the coin, yet this owl may be seen quite often in many different coin designs-it’s a way of showing the rich cultural and historical background that Europe has. It is a representation of knowledge and understanding that translate to the foundation upon which the European Union stands.
Euro and the Athena Owl
The motto “Unity in Diversity” is depicted on the Indian 10-rupee coin which contains a design symbolising the values this nation holds. There are fifteen spokes on the coin representing one of India’s fifteen official languages. Furthermore, this currency represents the happy coexistence of India’s many varied cultures and customs.
Indian 10 Rupee Coin
The Aztec calendar design, rendered with intricate patterns, adorns the 10-peso coin of Mexico, one that symbolizes the history rich before the arrival of the Spanish. This calendar, a tool for the calculation of time, is also a cultural icon that represents the rich historical roots of the Aztec civilization as well as the ongoing legacy that it has left behind.
Mexican 10 Peso Coin
The “Big Five” animals which are often represented in South Africa’s coinage include the lion, leopard, rhinoceros, elephant, and Cape buffalo. Other species that are often featured include the elephant. These species indicate tenacity and resilience that associate with the African continent and are not only symbols of the abundant fauna the nation occupies but also of the continent itself. They are present in every country on the African continent.
South African Rand
One of the flowers that are reportedly to have a big cultural value in Japan is said to be cherry blossom, also known under the name sakura. The Japanese 100 yen coin features many paintings of sakura. The reason behind them is to remind the person carrying them how precious their lives are and how everything in it is only temporary. These flowers, which symbolize the transitory nature of life, remind him he is carrying them.
Japan 100 Yen Coin
Cherry blossoms, which are known as sakura, symbolize a certain type of bloom of extreme cultural significance in Japan. Perhaps no better definition of the Japanese 100 Yen coin exists than that of sakura. These blossoms embody, thus reminding the person carrying them, the frailty of life and its value.
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Conclusion
In a nutshell, these nine coins, all carrying their secret messages or symbols, represent much more than money; they carry meanings that touch cultures, histories, and ideals of the nations they represent. They remind me that there may be stories and meanings in even the smallest and most ordinary things.
FAQs
Q 1. What hides behind coins?
A: Secret messages on coins can actually be power symbols, national identity, religious symbolism or commemorative elements. These could be literally hidden, but can be discovered using historical research.
Q 2. How to Read Coin Secret Messages?
A: Look for subtle symbols, texts, or artistic details related to a country’s background and its morals or values to decipher for the hidden meaning. Most coins rely on numerology along with placement with the addition of mythological characters to create their deeper meanings.
Q 3. Are Secret Message Coins Valuable?
A: The value of a coin is based on their rarity, age, and condition. The coins containing secret messages or small print runs are more precious if they contain cultural or historical significance and are targeted by the collectors.
Q 4. What did governments sneak onto coins with an engraving?
A: Coins represent national identity, cultural pride, and historical figures and events. Subtle messaging can communicate values or narrate a story that makes the coin more useful than its monetary value.
Q 5. How can I begin collecting subtle-message coins?
A: Begin by researching various historical coins from around the world. Look on numismatic websites, coin histories, and coin-collecting forums. Perhaps it’s joining a numismatic group or getting to a coin event that gets you some of those hard-to-find message coins and introduces you to other enthusiasts.