INTERNATIONAL NUMISMATIC
SOCIETY OF SAN DIEGO
Allied Gardens Rec Center, 5155 Greenbrier Ave., San Diego
5:15 p.m., Doors Open at About 4:45 p.m.
Topic This Month:
INDEPENDENCE AND NATION BUILDING
Mike Shaw – Post World War II African Independent Nations
Our meeting this month explores Independence and Nation Building, looking at how newly formed or newly redefined nations have used coins and medals to express identity, authority, and shared values. These numismatic pieces often become early, visible symbols of sovereignty, reflecting political change, cultural priorities, and aspirations for the future. From post-colonial states to emerging republics and reorganized nations, their issues tell stories of transition and self-definition. Members are encouraged to consider how coins mark moments of independence, reform, or national renewal in any collecting area. As always, please feel free to bring any material for our show-and-tell -- even if unrelated to our topic. This promises to be an interesting and informative evening. Bring a friend.
2026 INSSD Meeting Topics
July – World War II
August – Jeff DePry -- Roman Emperors – Part 2
JUNE 2026 QUIZ
1. Which country issued the first coins bearing the portrait of Simón Bolívar, honoring his role in Latin American independence?
2. The 1960 “Independence” 1 Pound coin featuring a dove and olive branch commemorates the independence of which Middle Eastern nation?
3. The 1977 silver 10 Balboas of Panama depicts which U.S. president who helped negotiate the Panama Canal treaties, seen as part of Panama’s modern nation-building?
4. The 1957 1 Rupee of India shows the Ashoka Lion Capital. This emblem was adopted shortly after independence from which colonial power?
5. Ghana’s first coins issued in 1958 feature a star symbol. What does the star represent in the context of Ghana’s independence?
6. The 1991 Ukrainian “Independence” commemorative coin features the national trident. What is the name of this historic symbol?
7. The 1966 Botswana Independence medal features which animal, also found on the nation’s coat of arms?
8. The 1975 Portuguese “25 de Abril” coin commemorates the Carnation Revolution, which ended decades of authoritarian rule. What year did Portugal grant independence to most of its African colonies?
MAY 2026 QUIZ by Bob Fritsch
Memorial Day is celebrated on Monday – go and enjoy a parade. I head to Ottawa next weekend for the annual convention of the Ontario Numismatic Association. Fantastic people up there. you should visit sometime.
Mexico is this month’s theme, a very popular one with this club. Let’s look at the $20-peso denomination.
Check https://www.banxico.org.mx/banknotes-and-coins/20-peso-current-coin-belong.html for the data.
1. Who is on the older (blue) $20-peso note that is being withdrawn from circulation?
2. How many sides are on the new $20-peso coin, what is its diameter, and what is on the edge?
3. Mexico has issued four $20-peso coins for what event depicting what scenes?
4. Name at least three reverse commemorations on this coin.
May ANSWERS
1. Benito Juarez.
2. 12 sides at 30mm with an interrupted milled edge.
3. FIFA World Cup showing Mexico city, Guadalajara, Monterrey, and Mexico itself.
4. Bicentennial of Mexico’s Independence; Air Force; Belisario Domínguez along with a couple dozen others.
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