Catalog
| Issuer | Liberia |
|---|---|
| Year | 2002 |
| Type | Non-circulating coin |
| Value | 25 Dollars |
| Currency | Dollar (1943-date) |
| Composition | Gold (.999) |
| Weight | 0.73 g |
| Diameter | 11 mm |
| Thickness | |
| Shape | Round |
| Technique | Milled |
| Orientation | Medal alignment ↑↑ |
| Engraver(s) | |
| In circulation to | |
| Reference(s) |
| Obverse description | Coat of arms of Liberia divides date. |
|---|---|
| Obverse script | Latin |
| Obverse lettering | REPUBLIC OF LIBERIA THE LOVE OF LIBERTY BROUGHT US HERE 2002 REPUBLIC OF LIBERIA |
| Reverse description | Bust of Plato front-facing and classical greek column on his right. |
| Reverse script | Latin |
| Reverse lettering | PLATO 25 DOLLARS |
| Edge | Reeded |
| Mint | |
| Mintage |
2002 - Proof - |
| Numisquare ID | 1009296430 |
| Additional information |
Historical Context: The 2002 25 Dollars Plato coin was issued during the tumultuous Second Liberian Civil War under President Charles Taylor. Despite severe domestic disruption, this gold issue, primarily for the international collector market, served as a symbolic assertion of national sovereignty and a potential source of foreign exchange. Honoring Plato, it reflects a common strategy by smaller nations to issue universally appealing commemorative series, transcending immediate geopolitical strife for a global numismatic audience.
Artistry: The engraver for such issues is typically unrecorded; however, the coin’s design adheres to a neo-classical realist style. The obverse features the Liberian coat of arms, signifying national authority, with the denomination and year. The reverse presents a dignified profile portrait of Plato, capturing his intellectual gravitas within the diminutive 11mm diameter. The clarity of the "PLATO" inscription is crucial given the limited space.
Technical/Grading: Struck in .999 fine gold, this miniature coin (0.73 gg, 11 mm) typically exhibits a superior strike, often with a proof-like finish. High-points for grading include Plato's hair, beard, facial contours, and drapery folds on the reverse. On the obverse, the fine lines of the Liberian coat of arms, especially within the shield and banner, are critical. The soft nature of high-purity gold demands a careful strike for full detail, and while usually well-executed, these issues are susceptible to mishandling marks.