The Great Sailing Ships of History Mini-Ingot Collection by Franklin Mint
Coin/Bullion and Commemorative Collectible · The Franklin Mint, founded in 1964 by Joseph Segel in Pennsylvania, USA. Reputation for high-quality mass-marketed numismatic and philatelic collectibles, particularly throughout the 1970s and 80s.
Pattern: Great Sailing Ships of History (Mini-Ingot Series), introduced circa late 1970s. Discontinued after limited subscription run.
Type
Coin/Bullion and Commemorative Collectible
Maker
The Franklin Mint, founded in 1964 by Joseph Segel in Pennsylvania, USA. Reputation for high-quality mass-marketed numismatic and philatelic collectibles, particularly throughout the 1970s and 80s.
Material
Solid Sterling Silver (.925 purity). Each mini-ingot contains approximately 1.5 to 2 grams of fine silver. Total silver weight for 50 pieces is roughly 2.5 to 3 troy ounces.
Dimensions
Each ingot is approx. 12mm x 19mm. Total set weight approx. 75-100 grams. Displayed in an oak wood and felt frame roughly 12 x 20 inches.
Description
A comprehensive 50-piece collection of sterling silver miniature ingots, each meticulously struck to depict a significant vessel in maritime history. This set combines numismatic precision with historical education, featuring ships ranging from ancient triremes to 19th-century Tea Clippers. Housed in a custom wooden shadowbox with a royal blue felt background, it serves as an educational and investment-minded piece of nautical art.
Key Features
Miniature format (Mini-Ingot), frosted ship designs, comprehensive 50-piece count, original wooden display casing, and distinct FM hallmark.
Material & Composition
Solid Sterling Silver (.925 purity). Each mini-ingot contains approximately 1.5 to 2 grams of fine silver. Total silver weight for 50 pieces is roughly 2.5 to 3 troy ounces.
Finish & Decoration
Proof-like finish with frosted relief (sailing vessels) against a mirrored background. Features high-relief die-struck nautical scenes including galleons, clippers, and schooners. Classic 1970s numismatic aesthetic.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Usually stamped on the reverse or edge with '(C) [Year] FM', 'STERLING', and '.925'. Includes the Franklin Mint 'F' script logo.
Construction Details
Precision die-struck using industrial coin presses. Machine-manufactured with high-pressure dies to ensure consistency across the 50-piece set.
Functional Features
Designed for wall-mounted or tabletop display. Magnetic or pressure-fit recessed slots in the velvet liner hold ingots in place.
Handle & Grip Details
N/A - the set is housed in a wooden display chest or frame with no functional silver handles.
Craftsmanship Details
Industrial high-craft; while not 'hand-wrought' in the traditional sense, the dies used for striking exhibit exceptional artistic detail and clarity in miniature.
Authentication Indicators
Clear FM logo and 'Sterling' marks on individual ingots. Consistency in striking quality. Presence of original mint certificates (often found in reverse of frame).
Origin & Manufacturing
Wawa, Pennsylvania, USA. Manufactured at the Franklin Mint's own private minting facility.
Era & Period
Modern Collectible Era (1970s-1980s). Characterized by the rise of direct-to-consumer silver subscription services and historical commemoratives.
Age Estimate
Circa 1975-1980. Dated based on the height of Franklin Mint's nautical themed series and hallmark styles.
Cultural Significance
Represents the 'silver boom' of the 1970s when middle-class families invested in silver collectibles as a hedge against inflation and as a hobby.
Condition Notes
Excellent overall. Silver shows minimal tarnish due to protection behind glass. The wooden frame is sturdy. Felt may show light dust or fading over time. Grade: Excellent.
Value Estimate
$150-$250 USD. Value is largely driven by the current spot price of silver plus a small premium for the display case and set completeness.
Care & Maintenance
Keep glass sealed to prevent oxidation. Avoid liquid silver dips; if needed, use a dry polishing cloth on individual ingots. Keep away from direct sunlight to prevent felt fading.
Similar Pieces
Franklin Mint '100 Greatest Masterpieces', Danbury Mint ingots, or Hamilton Mint maritime collections. Difference lies in the specific 'Mini' format of this set.
Interesting Facts
The Franklin Mint was once the world's largest private mint. These sets were sold via monthly mail-order subscriptions, where collectors received one ingot at a time until the set was complete.