Cyprus 1977 Archbishop Makarios III Gold Commemorative Coin (Sovereign Size)
Coin (Commemorative/Numismatic) · Yellow Gold (High karat saturation with a classic warm orange-yellow tone)
Purity: 22K (91.6% gold, 8.4% copper alloy for durability)
Type
Coin (Commemorative/Numismatic)
Purity
22K (91.6% gold, 8.4% copper alloy for durability)
Gold Type
Yellow Gold (High karat saturation with a classic warm orange-yellow tone)
Weight
7.98 grams (Standard Sovereign weight class; approximately 0.2354 troy oz of pure gold)
Description
This striking 22K gold commemorative medal honors Archbishop Makarios III, the first president of Cyprus. The obverse features a highly detailed right-facing bust of the Archbishop in his clerical vestments and kalimavkion (headdress). The coin exhibits a stunning 'cameo' contrast between the frosted portrait and the polished black-mirror fields typical of high-quality proof strikings. It is a significant piece of Greek-Cypriot history and a prized bullion-grade collectible.
Key Features
Cameo proof-like finish; Greek script periphery; dates 1960-1977 denoting Makarios's presidential tenure; accurate high-relief portraiture
Color & Finish
Proof-like finish with frosted relief (cameo effect) and highly reflective mirror-like fields; deep yellow coloration consistent with high-purity Mediterranean issues
Hallmarks & Stamps
No industrial hallmarks; features Greek inscriptions 'ΑΡΧΙΕΠ. ΜΑΚΑΡΙΟΣ' (Archbishop Makarios) and 'ΠΡΟΕΔΡΟΣ ΔΗΜΟΚΡΑΤΙΑΣ ΚΥΠΡΟΥ' (President of the Republic of Cyprus)
Dimensions Estimate
22 mm in diameter; approximately 1.5 mm thickness (consistent with standard gold sovereign specifications)
Gemstones & Inlays
None; features a numismatic engraved portrait in frosted gold relief
Clasp & Closure
Not applicable; features a reeded (milled) edge for security and grip in the hand
Chain & Links
Not applicable; edge is reeded to prevent 'clipping' or shaving of the gold content
Craftsmanship Details
Precision die-struck; selective frosting on the relief provides depth; mirrored surfaces achieved through hand-polished dies and planchets
Authentication Indicators
Correct 22K color saturation; sharp reeding on the edge; no ‘pimpling’ on fields which would suggest a sand-cast fake; high-clarity Greek lettering without blurring
Origin & Maker
Cyprus (Likely struck by the British Royal Mint on behalf of the Central Bank of Cyprus)
Era & Period
Contemporary/Modern Republic (Issued post-1977 to commemorate the first President of Cyprus)
Age Estimate
Struck in 1977 or shortly thereafter (Vintage commemorative)
Cultural Significance
Represents the independence and sovereignty of Cyprus; serves as a symbol of national identity and the transition from British rule to a Republic
Condition Notes
Excellent (Proof-like); minimal surface chatter; resides in a protective acrylic capsule preventing oxidation or oils from touching the surface; mirror fields are clear of hairlines
Value Estimate
Current gold melt value (approximately $550-$600 based on spot) plus a numismatic premium of 10-20% due to its commemorative nature and condition
Care & Maintenance
Do not clean with abrasives; keep inside the acrylic capsule; handle only by the edges if removed from the case to prevent acidic fingerprint oils from etching the gold fields
Similar Items
British Gold Sovereign, Greek 20 Drachmai (historical), or the Cyprus 50 Pounds Gold Coin (1977 issue); the former has higher circulation while this is more commemorative in nature
Interesting Facts
Archbishop Makarios III was both a religious leader and a head of state, a rare combination in modern European history. Gold coins featuring his image are often given as significant christening or wedding gifts in the Cypriot diaspora.