From a curious beginner to a passionate collector, this blog explores the journey of discovering Philippine Commemorative Proof Sets—why they’re beautiful, rare, and increasingly hard to find. Learn about their mintage, current market prices, and tips for building your own collection.

Did you know the last Spanish coin struck for the Philippines is nicknamed “Batang Alaska”? The 1897 Alfonso XIII UN Peso features a young king whose image reminds Pinoy collectors of the Alaska Milk logo. In this blog, I share my passion for this iconic coin, explore its historical and numismatic value, and offer tips to avoid common replica scams—especially from online sellers abroad.

The Alfonso XII 50 Centavos silver coins, minted in Manila from 1880 to 1885, are prized treasures in Spanish-Philippine coin collecting. With low mintage years like 1880 and 1884, mint errors, and hidden overdates such as 1882/1 and possibly 1883/5, these coins offer rich ground for discovery. In this blog, I share my collecting journey, how I spot errors, and why this underrated series deserves a second look from collectors.

“Proof ka ba? Inde Matte!” If you’re confused by the terms Proof, Matte, and BU when buying or collecting Philippine commemorative coins, you’re not alone. In this guide, I share what I’ve learned — from shiny mirrors to jelly-like reflections — on how to tell these finishes apart using practical tests and ABL coin examples. Whether you’re new to collecting or just curious, this blog will help you confidently spot the difference.

New to collecting? This beginner’s guide to numismatics offers practical advice on starting your first collection of coins, banknotes, or medals—from choosing reliable sources and identifying market prices to protecting your collectibles and joining numismatic communities.

Discover the fascinating world of numismatics with this beginner’s guide. Learn how to start your collection of coins, banknotes, and medals with practical tips—from understanding value and grading to avoiding pitfalls and choosing the right tools. A must-read for every aspiring collector of Philippine or global currency.

Caring for your coin and banknote collection is more than just storage—it's about preservation. This guide walks you through essential tips on proper handling, storage materials, and environmental controls to help maintain the beauty and value of your collection for years to come.