2013 5 oz Armenian Silver Noahs Ark Coin 1000 Drams

The 2013 5 oz Armenian Silver Noah’s Ark coin, with a face value of 1000 Drams, is a striking piece of modern bullion that combines artistry, Biblical symbolism, and national heritage. First introduced in 2011, the Noah’s Ark series quickly became one of the most popular silver bullion programs issued on behalf of the Republic of Armenia. Struck in Germany by Geiger Edelmetalle, one of Europe’s most respected private mints, the series has been admired for its consistently high quality, intricate design, and deep cultural meaning. The 5 oz size, carrying a face value of 1000 Drams, is one of the larger and more impressive formats in the series, offering both significant silver content and a commanding presence.

The obverse of the coin carries the national coat of arms of the Republic of Armenia. The design features an eagle and lion supporting a shield that contains depictions of Mount Ararat, biblical Noah’s Ark, and the symbols of Armenia’s historic dynasties. Above the coat of arms is the inscription “REPUBLIC OF ARMENIA,” while below appears the denomination of “1000 DRAMS” along with the year of issue, “2013.” The purity and weight are also inscribed as “5 oz Ag 999,” confirming its five troy ounces of .999 fine silver content. The obverse design highlights Armenia’s sovereignty and the cultural continuity between its ancient history and modern national identity.

The reverse of the coin depicts the central theme of the series: Noah’s Ark. This design shows the ark floating upon the floodwaters with Mount Ararat rising majestically in the background, a snow-capped peak that is both a Biblical symbol and a powerful national emblem for Armenians. Above the ark, a radiant sun breaks through the clouds, symbolizing hope and divine promise. In the foreground, a dove carries an olive branch in its beak, recalling the Biblical story of peace and salvation. The inscription “NOAH’S ARK” appears in both English and Armenian. The artistry of the reverse captures both the religious significance of the ark and its deep ties to Armenian heritage, as Mount Ararat is traditionally believed to be the place where Noah’s Ark came to rest after the flood.

Technically, the 2013 5 oz coin is struck from five troy ounces (155.5 grams) of .999 fine silver, giving it substantial intrinsic value as bullion. It has a diameter of 60 millimeters, making it one of the larger coins in the series and allowing the fine details of the design to be fully appreciated. Geiger Edelmetalle, the mint responsible for production, is renowned for precision striking, and the result is a coin with sharp details, brilliant luster, and excellent finish. Unlike some bullion coins that emphasize simplicity, the Noah’s Ark series places strong emphasis on artistry, making it attractive to both investors and collectors.

The mintage of the 2013 5 oz Noah’s Ark coin was limited compared to the smaller 1 oz and fractional sizes. While exact production numbers vary by year and format, the 5 oz coins were struck in significantly lower quantities, making them more challenging to find and desirable among collectors of the series. Their larger size, coupled with their reduced availability, ensures long-term appeal. Collectors often pursue complete sets of Noah’s Ark issues across various years and sizes, with the 5 oz coins standing out as centerpiece items due to their scale and beauty.

By 2013, the Noah’s Ark program was already firmly established as Armenia’s flagship bullion series. Its release during the early 2010s coincided with a surge of global interest in silver investment, as well as growing appreciation for non-traditional bullion programs outside of the U.S., Canada, and Australia. The Armenian series set itself apart by combining Biblical storytelling with national symbolism, thereby appealing to a global audience of investors, religious collectors, and those with ties to Armenian heritage. The 5 oz format is especially appreciated by collectors who value coins that not only serve as bullion but also function as display-worthy art pieces.

In terms of condition, most 2013 5 oz Noah’s Ark coins were distributed in Brilliant Uncirculated (BU) form and are found today in similarly preserved states. In BU condition, the coin retains full mint luster, sharp strike quality, and attractive surfaces. Light handling marks or minor abrasions may exist due to packaging and shipping, but examples with clean surfaces and radiant silver sheen are highly valued. Many coins were sold in capsules to protect their large format, which has aided in keeping them in premium condition over the years. Collectors especially seek examples with original packaging and protective capsules intact, as this ensures maximum preservation of both silver content and visual appeal.

The religious and cultural symbolism of the Noah’s Ark coin enhances its collectible significance. The Biblical flood story is one of humanity’s oldest tales of redemption and survival, while Mount Ararat carries profound meaning for Armenians as both a geographic landmark and a symbol of their ancestral homeland. By uniting these themes, the series offers far more than a bullion investment—it provides a tangible connection to faith, history, and identity. The dove with the olive branch reinforces the universal theme of peace, making the coin meaningful across cultures and traditions.

For investors, the 2013 5 oz coin offers the security of substantial silver weight, making it a practical store of wealth. For collectors, it provides rarity, beauty, and cultural depth that elevate it above standard bullion issues. Its relatively low mintage, impressive size, and stunning design make it a highlight of any collection of modern world bullion coins. It also serves as an important piece for those assembling full runs of Noah’s Ark issues, where the larger denominations add balance and prestige alongside the more common 1 oz pieces.

In conclusion, the 2013 5 oz Armenian Silver Noah’s Ark 1000 Drams coin is a superb combination of bullion and artistry. Struck in .999 fine silver by Geiger Edelmetalle, it showcases a beautifully executed design celebrating one of the most enduring Biblical stories while highlighting Armenia’s national symbol of Mount Ararat. Its substantial five-ounce weight, limited mintage, and Brilliant Uncirculated preservation make it an appealing choice for both investors and collectors. More than just silver, it is a cultural and spiritual statement captured in numismatic form, ensuring that it remains one of the most admired modern commemorative bullion coins of its era.