This article explores the legacy of General Douglas MacArthur as reflected in Philippine numismatics—from the 1947 independence commemoratives to the 1980 centennial coins, the Leyte Landing anniversary issues, and modern medals that honor his pivotal role in the nation’s wartime history.

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.

“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.