Armenian Noah's Ark 1/4 oz Gold Bullion Coin
Gold Coin (Bullion) · Yellow Gold (High-purity classic warm luster characteristic of 24K gold).
Purity: 24K (999.9 Fine Gold), indicating 99.99% pure gold content with virtually no alloy metals.
Type
Gold Coin (Bullion)
Purity
24K (999.9 Fine Gold), indicating 99.99% pure gold content with virtually no alloy metals.
Gold Type
Yellow Gold (High-purity classic warm luster characteristic of 24K gold).
Weight
1/4 troy ounce (7.78 grams) of fine gold. This series is also minted in 1/2 oz, 1 oz, and larger sizes, but current scale suggests the 1/4 oz variant.
Description
A stunning legal tender bullion coin from the Republic of Armenia. The reverse depicts a flying dove with an olive branch in the foreground, with Noah’s Ark floating on floodwaters before Mount Ararat and a rising sun in the background. It is a masterpiece of modern minting combining religious symbolism with investment-grade purity.
Key Features
High-relief texture of the dove's feathers, sunburst radial lines in the background, bilingual inscriptions, and the unique depiction of Mount Ararat, a national symbol of Armenia.
Color & Finish
Rich deep yellow with a proof-like finish; the background (field) features a high-mirror polish while the relief features a frosted satin finish for contrast.
Hallmarks & Stamps
The reverse (shown) contains the inscription 'NOAH'S ARK' in English and Armenian. The obverse (not shown) typically features the Armenian Coat of Arms, 'REPUBLIC OF ARMENIA', weight '1/4 Oz Au 999.9', and the face value in Dram.
Dimensions Estimate
Approximately 22.0 mm in diameter and 1.7 mm in thickness.
Gemstones & Inlays
None; this is a pure metal bullion sovereign coin.
Clasp & Closure
Not applicable; however, the coin features a reeded (milled) edge for security and to prevent metal clipping.
Chain & Links
Not applicable; the edge is reeded with vertical serrations consistent with government-issued bullion.
Craftsmanship Details
Exceptional strike quality featuring 'Cameo' contrast where the raised elements are matte and the background is mirrored. Die-alignment is precise with sharp, crisp edges on the lettering.
Authentication Indicators
Precise laser-etched details in the sunburst rays, sharp font consistency in the Armenian script, and the distinct warm hue of 24K gold which lacks the 'brassiness' of lower-karat alloys.
Origin & Maker
Armenia (Official Issuing Authority); Manufactured by Geiger Edelmetalle in Germany on behalf of the Central Bank of Armenia.
Era & Period
Contemporary (2011–Present). This specific series was first introduced in gold in 2020 (silver version began in 2011).
Age Estimate
Modern production, likely struck between 2020 and 2024.
Cultural Significance
Represents the biblical story of Noah’s Ark, which according to tradition, came to rest on the Mountains of Ararat. This makes it a popular item for religious collectors as well as gold investors.
Condition Notes
Appears to be in 'Brilliant Uncirculated' (BU) condition. The surfaces show high luster with no visible distracting bag marks or scratches on the relief. Overall Grade: MS-68 to MS-70 (Estimated).
Value Estimate
Market value is based on the current gold spot price plus a 'mint premium' of 5-10%. Total value relies heavily on the daily London Fix price for 1/4 oz of gold.
Care & Maintenance
24K gold is extremely soft and prone to scratching. Handle only by the edges or with cotton gloves. Store in a PVC-free plastic capsule to maintain the 'Brilliant Uncirculated' luster.
Similar Items
1/4 oz Gold American Eagle (22K), 1/4 oz Gold Canadian Maple Leaf (24K), and 1/4 oz Gold Austrian Philharmonic (24K).
Interesting Facts
While it is a legal tender coin of Armenia, it is actually minted in Germany by the prestigious Geiger Edelmetalle private mint, known for some of the highest quality standards in Europe.