Catalog
| Issuer | Andorra |
|---|---|
| Year | 1980 |
| Type | Collector coin |
| Value | 1500 Diners (1500 ADD) |
| Currency | Diner (1977-2014) |
| Composition | Silver (.925) (.3718 ASW) |
| Weight | 12.5 g |
| Diameter | 30 mm |
| Thickness | |
| Shape | Round |
| Technique | Milled |
| Orientation | Medal alignment ↑↑ |
| Engraver(s) | |
| In circulation to | |
| Reference(s) | KM#7 |
| Obverse description | Bust to the left of archbishop Joan Martí Alanis |
|---|---|
| Obverse script | Latin |
| Obverse lettering |
JOHANNES · D. M. EPS. VRGELL. ET · PRINC. VALL. ANDORRAE LT (Translation: Joan D.M. Bishop of Urgell and Prince of the Andorra Valleys) |
| Reverse description | Coat of arms of Andorra within a circle. |
| Reverse script | Latin |
| Reverse lettering |
VIRTVS · VNITA · FORTIOR MCMLXXX (Translation: United virtue is stronger 1980) |
| Edge | |
| Mint | |
| Mintage |
1980 - Proof - 5 000 |
| Numisquare ID | 7340390020 |
| Additional information |
Historical Context: Issued in 1980, this 1500 Diners coin from Andorra honors Joan Martí i Alanis, the then-serving Bishop of Urgell and thus one of the two Co-Princes of Andorra. His tenure (1971-2003) was a period of significant social and economic development for the principality, including its increasing international engagement. This coinage underscores Andorra's unique feudal co-principality system, a historical anomaly where spiritual and temporal authority is shared, reflecting the nation's enduring heritage amidst modernization.
Artistry: The coin's design, typical of modern commemorative issues, likely features a dignified portrait of Joan Martí i Alanis on the obverse, rendered with realistic detail. While the specific engraver is not commonly documented for this series, the stylistic school adheres to contemporary numismatic portraiture, emphasizing clarity and official representation. The reverse typically displays the traditional Coat of Arms of Andorra, encircled by the denomination "1500 Diners" and the year "1980," executed with precise heraldic detail.
Technical/Grading: Struck in .925 fine silver with a weight of 12.5 grams and a diameter of 30 mm, this issue generally exhibits a strong strike. Key high-points for grading include the intricacies of the Co-Prince's hair and facial features on the obverse, and the crowns and detailed charges within the escutcheon on the reverse. Collectors should seek examples with full luster and minimal contact marks, particularly on the fields. Minor softness might occasionally be observed in the very highest relief areas, though overall detail should remain sharp.