China 100 Yuan 1990 - 1992 Summer Olympics, Barcelona - Basketball

10.39g. Au 0.999. PROOF.

PLEASE NOTE: This lot is subject to a reduced buyer's premium of only 12.4%.

China 100 Yuan 1990 - 1992 Summer Olympics, Barcelona - Basketball: A Numismatic and Historical Gem

The China 100 Yuan coin issued in 1990, commemorating the 1992 Summer Olympics in Barcelona with a basketball theme, is a striking piece of numismatic history that reflects both China’s growing presence in global sports and its numismatic artistry. Struck in 99.9% pure gold, this coin captures a pivotal moment in Olympic history and serves as a collectible treasure for enthusiasts of both numismatics and sports memorabilia.

Historical Context

The 1992 Summer Olympics, officially known as the Games of the XXV Olympiad, were held in Barcelona, Spain, from July 25 to August 9, 1992. This Olympiad marked a significant turning point in global sports, being the first since the end of the Cold War and free from major boycotts, unlike previous games in the 1970s and 1980s. It was also a landmark event for basketball, as the International Olympic Committee allowed professional athletes to compete for the first time. This decision led to the formation of the U.S. "Dream Team," featuring NBA legends like Michael Jordan, Magic Johnson, and Larry Bird, who dominated the tournament and won gold, captivating audiences worldwide.

China, officially competing as the People’s Republic of China (PRC), had re-entered the Olympic movement in 1984 after a decades-long absence due to political disputes over the recognition of the Republic of China (Taiwan). By 1992, the PRC was eager to showcase its growing international presence, both in sports and through commemorative issues like this coin. The 1990 issuance of the 100 Yuan coin, two years prior to the Barcelona Games, was part of a series celebrating the Olympics, with this particular piece highlighting basketball—a sport gaining popularity in China.

Numismatic Details

The China 100 Yuan 1990 Basketball coin is a proof-struck piece, composed of 10.37 grams of .999 fine gold, with a diameter of approximately 23 mm. The obverse features the national emblem of the People’s Republic of China, with the inscription "中华人民共和国" (Chinese People’s Republic) and the year "1990" below. The reverse showcases a dynamic design of female basketball players in action, a nod to the sport’s growing inclusivity, with the denomination "100 Yuan" and the inscription "Barcelona 1992 - 25th Summer Olympic Games" in Chinese. The coin’s reeded edge and proof finish, often accompanied by a certificate of authenticity (COA) and protective capsule, enhance its appeal to collectors.

With a reported mintage of around 10,000 pieces, this coin is considered rare among numismatic circles, as reflected by its high Numista Rarity Index of 94 (on a scale where 100 indicates extreme rarity among collectors). Its bullion value, tied to the price of gold, is significant—estimated at approximately USD 885 in today’s market based on a gold price of 85,462 USD/kg—but its numismatic value often exceeds this due to its historical significance and limited availability.

Legacy and Collectible Value

The 1992 Barcelona Olympics were a milestone for China, which won 16 gold medals and 54 total medals, placing fourth in the overall medal tally. While China’s men’s basketball team did not medal, the sport’s global spotlight—thanks to the "Dream Team"—helped fuel its popularity in China, setting the stage for future stars like Yao Ming, who would later elevate the nation’s basketball profile.

For collectors, the China 100 Yuan 1990 Basketball coin is a prized addition, often found on platforms like eBay and MA-Shops, where it is sold in its original capsule with a COA. Its value lies not only in its gold content but also in its representation of a transformative Olympic moment and China’s numismatic tribute to the event. As a piece of history, it bridges the worlds of sport, culture, and finance, making it a cherished item for those who appreciate the intersection of these domains.