Our Hobby Corner

Tag: books

  • Coins: World Commemorative Coins from Dad’s Collection

    Among the many treasures in my father’s collection are these fascinating modern commemorative coins from small island territories and collector-issuing nations. Though modest in face value, they carry themes that are global in appeal — royalty, remembrance, marine life, and the art of modern minting.

    This single page brings together four very different pieces, each with its own story.

    Niue, 1 Dollar, 1997 – Princess Diana Memorial

    The first coin is a 1997 one dollar issue from Niue, a small Pacific island state in free association with New Zealand. It was issued as a memorial tribute to Diana, Princess of Wales, whose death in 1997 led to commemorative issues across many parts of the world.

    One side carries Diana’s portrait, while the other shows the coat of arms design associated with the issuing authority.

    Palau, 1 Dollar, 2001 – Marine Life Protection

    The Palau one dollar coin dated 2001 is perhaps the most visually striking piece in this group. It is a colourized commemorative coin, featuring a marine life theme, and immediately stands out for its vivid underwater design.

    Palau became well known among collectors for issuing attractive modern thematic coins, especially those linked to nature and ocean life. This piece reflects that trend beautifully.

    Nightingale Island, 1 Crown, 2005 – Queen Mother

    The 2005 one crown from Nightingale Island is another evocative modern commemorative. It features a coloured portrait of the Queen Mother and belongs to the category of collector-oriented crown issues associated with remote British island territories.

    Nightingale Island, part of the Tristan da Cunha group in the South Atlantic, is one of those names that instantly sparks curiosity. Coins from such places often appeal to collectors because of their unusual origin as much as their design.

    To summarize, these coins indicate the rise of collector-themed world issues, created as much for display and sentiment as for commerce.

    And honestly, that is part of their charm. A Pacific island remembers Diana. Palau celebrates marine life in colour. A remote Atlantic island honours the Queen Mother. Tiny coins, big geography, bigger stories.

  • These images show collections of vintage matchbox labels from various themes, regions, and historical periods. Matchbox labels were popular collectibles during the 20th century and are a significant part of philumeny (the hobby of collecting match-related items). Here’s a breakdown of what is visible:

    1. Sports-Themed Labels (HEMA, Series 1-20):

    • These colorful labels depict various sports, such as hockey, swimming, skiing, and cycling.
    • Likely produced by HEMA, a Dutch retail chain, as promotional or collectible items.
    • The vibrant design and cartoon-like illustrations indicate they might date from the 1970s or earlier.

    2. Inventors and Inventions (SPAR):

    • These labels feature portraits of famous inventors (e.g., Thomas Edison) and their inventions (e.g., light bulb, steam engine).
    • SPAR, a multinational grocery retailer, appears to have issued these labels.
    • They celebrate technological and scientific achievements, making them both educational and collectible.

    3. Aircraft History (Russian):

    • This set focuses on aviation history, likely from a Russian perspective, given the Cyrillic text.
    • The illustrations include early aviation designs and notable airplanes, with a focus on Soviet-era contributions.
    • These labels would appeal to enthusiasts of aviation history.

    4. Czechoslovakian Heraldry (Czech Coats of Arms):

    • These labels depict coats of arms from cities and regions in former Czechoslovakia.
    • Likely issued to promote national heritage and regional pride, possibly in the mid-20th century.
    • The text in Czech provides descriptions of the heraldic symbols.

    5. Cultural Costumes (Japanese Text):

    • Labels show traditional costumes from different countries, with Japanese text suggesting these were made for the Japanese market.
    • They highlight the cultural diversity of the world through clothing.
    • These are likely educational, promoting international understanding.

    6. Portuguese Zodiac Series:

    • Labels depicting zodiac signs (e.g., Leo, Gemini), possibly from Portugal.
    • Simple, artistic designs indicate they might be promotional items from a match manufacturer.
    • The additional labels include other promotional or thematic content.

    7. Russian Scientists and Mathematicians:

    • Portraits of notable Russian scientists and mathematicians, with accompanying diagrams or formulas representing their contributions.
    • This set honors figures such as Mikhail Lomonosov (scientist) and Sofia Kovalevskaya (mathematician).
    • These likely originate from the Soviet era, reflecting a focus on scientific achievements.

    Historical and Collectible Value:

    • These labels are excellent examples of mid-20th-century advertising and cultural promotion.
    • They represent themes like sports, science, national pride, and global cultures.
    • Collectors value them for their historical significance, artistic merit, and rarity.