1995 Irish 10 Pound

The 1995 Irish 10-pound coin was struck in proof quality gold to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the United Nations, an organization founded to prevent another world war.

That makes it a tangible artifact of post-war optimism, minted at the Royal Mint in Llantrisant, Wales, since Ireland lacked its own facility at the time. The obverse shows a harp, Ireland's national symbol, while the reverse features a dove carrying an olive branch, designed by artist Paul Vincze.

We don't know the exact mintage figures; records from that era can be spotty. What I do know is that these coins were sold primarily to collectors, not for circulation, which kept them scarce.

After handling dozens over the years, I've heard tales of them warding off bad luck. They don't.