Once you have an eCommerce platform, you could theoretically sell ANYTHING. At least they're sticking to tangentially related items, not selling t-shirts, mops, dog barriers, and cheap keyboards. Oh wait, that's TEMU.
I am generally against them getting in the market as it implies that somehow these coins are special and/or part of their archive or at least somehow hinting at originality and tie to the RM itself. It appears that they have made decisions to increase the profits/bottom line and really not showing a bit of care in that.
I really don't like them doing it, and their prices are extortionate, but I understand their need. The demand for old fashioned circulation coinage around the world is declining rapidly and so they are turning to other sources of revenue. They have so over-supplied on commemorative stuff as to almost kill the market, particularly for the Cu/Ni Five pound coins, so they have taken up coin dealing as a new strand. Like 7Jags I don't like that by doing this they are implying some additional level of authenticity or kudos, when in fact they are buying in their stock on the open market and through preferred dealers. But we can't turn the clock back.
Yeah, I agree it's not a good look for them although it appears they have some nice, albeit pricey specimens. Perhaps this is a preemptive strike to raise funds before they release Charlies mug on items they are sure to take a loss on......can't wait to see those....
I don't think it's weird at all. In recent years, the Royal Mint has gone above and beyond in selling out to make an extra pound selling NCLT directly to collectors, and this fits perfectly with that pivot.
They've sold worn or even mint state old (19th and early 20th century) coins uncertified for years. If they are going to sell coins other than freshly minted, certification is not a bad idea. They have also done deals with dealers to market some freshly minted coins. Of course, the US Mint does this too. I leave it to the Brits to decide what they want their mint to sell. But would not want the US Mint competing with US dealers and collectors by selling older coins. Cal
