A rimless design coin is a coin that does not have a rim or raised edge. The coins also do not have ridges on the rim. In some rimless coins, the design elements appear as if they are continued outside the boundaries of the coin and extend closer to the edge, giving them a sleek, modern look.
These coins are not produced to be stacked. They are produced more for aesthetic reasons or as part of a collection rather than as a way to simply store wealth. It should be noted that rimless coins are created intentionally and are not coins that have had their edges worn away by use.
Key Features of Rimless Design Coins
- Edge Continuity: The lack of a raised rim allows the design to appear more integrated with the coin’s edge.
- Aesthetic Appeal: Rimless coins often emphasize artistic elements and may highlight intricate details extending across the surface.
- Limited Functionality: Without a protective rim, these coins are more susceptible to damage or wear, making them less practical for circulation and better suited for display or collection.
- Collector Interest: They are often issued in limited quantities, increasing their desirability among numismatists.
Rimless Design Coin Examples
While you will not find rimless options in bullion coins like Silver Eagles or Gold Maples, you may find some as commemorative releases or as a collectible series. Rimless coins are created more for eye appeal than for stacking. These kinds of coins may also be rounds rather than legal tender coinage.
Biblical Series
This Biblical Series is produced by the Scottsdale Mint and features rimless designs. These are 2-ounce silver coins that have a two-dollar face value in Niue. Each release has a limited mintage, and the series has released 6 coins per year since 2016. The final year of the Biblical Series coins is slated to be 2024.
Tuvalu Coins
The Government of Tuvalu has a partnership with The Perth Mint, where it produces coins on the government’s behalf. Some of these modern coins are rimless, such as the Tuvalu Silver Double Dragon. Other rimless design coins from the Perth Mint include commemorative Lunar series releases, Starry Sky & Planets, and more.
Germania Mint
The Germania Mint is located in Poland and produces rimless design coins and rounds. They produce a wide variety of commemorative items without rims, such as the Warrior and the Valkyries series. The Valkyries series is one of the newest additions, a series that pays tribute to female Germanic warriors. While they are rimless design coins, they also come in silver, colorized, and antique finish coins.
Vintage Rimless Design Coins: The Rimless Black Ponde
These famous rimless African Black Ponde coins are unfinished coins collected during the Second Boer War. It is said that Paul Kruger’s forces removed the gold from the Pretoria Mint before British forces arrived. These “blanks” were used to pay soldiers, farmers, and others. It is not known how many are in the markets, but they show up for sale every now and then.
Rimless Design Coins
Rimless design coins represent a unique blend of artistry and innovation in numismatics. Their intricate designs and modern appeal make them coveted pieces for collectors worldwide. As a celebration of creativity and craftsmanship, rimless coins continue to capture the imagination of enthusiasts and serve as standout additions to any collection.
