The Franklin Mint in the News

Today, the world-renowned Franklin Mint will unveil a rare and unprecedented work of artistry - the Taj Mahal Gold Coin - at their Manhattan showroom. Minted and designed by the world-renowned Monnaie de Paris, only 29 of these coins will ever be produced. Officially to be issued on November 17, 2010, the Taj Mahal Gold Coin is not only the first and only French coin comprised of over 2 lbs. of solid gold, but it is the world's first coin to include 68 hand-set Cartier diamonds.

The Franklin Mint proudly presents the Taj Mahal Gold Coin as Seen on this clip from the MSNBC First Look show. This rare gold coin contains 68 Cartier diamonds and weighs over 2 lbs of Solid Gold. The Franklin Mint is proud to exclusively bring this masterwork to the United States.

"For any collector or investor looking, the Taj Mahal Gold Coin offers a unique opportunity to own a piece of history," says Walter J. Kole, Chief Numismatist at The Franklin Mint. "Gold has appreciated at historic rates over the past few years and diamonds always seem to retain their value. The Franklin Mint is proud to exclusively bring this masterwork to the United States."

The Franklin Mint presents the stunning Taj Mahal Gold Coin. Minted and designed by the Monnaie de Paris, only 29 of these coins will ever be produced. Officially issued on November 17, 2010, The Taj Mahal Gold Coin is the most valuable Frensh piece ever released and is the world's first coin to introduce 68 hand-set Cartier diamonds.

Manufactured in France by the Monnaie de Paris, the coin is lovely, but at the size of a tea saucer it probably wouldn't be convenient to carry in your pocket. And while crime in New York City has plummeted over the years, it would be a sad day if you got mugged the morning you decided to take your coin for a stroll in the park.

This scenario isn't altogether fantastical. Included in the price—€100,000 (approximately $140,000), even though it's got a face value of €5,000 to qualify as legal tender—is a lovely leather carrying case designed by Goyard. The case, boasting 24 karat gold hardware, contains a coin loop—a magnifying glass to look at your purchase up close...