Expert: Brad Swain - 2/2/2010

Question
Can you tell me what a gold .999 fine 50.000 liras 2005 Knights of Malta large coin is worth diameter is 65mm round?? It has John Paul II on the front. Also I have a five coin set of .999 fine gold Knights of Malta coins 2005, 10.000 liras, 5.000 liras,2.500 liras,1.000 liras, and 500 liras. the 50.000 there was only 100 minted and the set is one of 1000 minted?? They are in the boxes with all the paperwork proofs. Thank you for your assistance.. I can't seem to find a value anywhere for these?

Answer
Hi Bob, the coins are so new that collector demand and records of selling prices has not been documented to be able to set an estimate of value. Currently, unless you find someone interested in them, they are likely just over their gold value. I'd hold onto them for a while if you can afford to do so.
You might keep trying Ebay.com for similar pieces for comparison.
You might also try a library for future editions of the Unusual World Coins for pictures, values and lots more interesting info on these unofficial pieces. The 2005 4th edition only lists that they were issued but no info on price or gold content.
Brad