A Journey into Old Art and Silver Coins

Today, I want to share two discoveries that brought back a wave of nostalgia: a sketch I made years ago and a .925 Mexican silver coin. Both represent cherished memories and tell their own stories. Let’s dive in.

Rediscovering Old Art

While reorganizing my home office during a carpet installation .. I stumbled upon an old notebook tucked away in my desk. It’s funny how a deep clean or a move reveals forgotten treasures. Inside, I found a handful of sketches, including one that likely dates back to the late 1990s or early 2000s. Though this particular piece wasn’t dated, another sketch in the same notebook bore a date of May 1998.

The sketch seems to be inspired by a pond .. Perhaps even foreshadowing the one we built at our old house. It’s not a masterpiece, but there’s something neat about it. The water surface conveys movement, and the waterfalls in the center create a dynamic ripple effect. I also like the details such as the lily pads, flowers, and stones that surround the pond that also add a touch of natural charm. If I were to critique it, I’d say it could use more depth through darker tones, but considering it was likely done with just a #2 pencil, I’m not too hard on myself. After all, it’s just a sketch.

Finding this drawing brought back memories .. Of that pond and the joy it brought to our lives. Patches and Pepper, our beloved dogs (R.I.P.), loved sitting by the water, watching the koi fish (also R.I.P.). The gentle sound of the waterfall and the graceful movements of the fish made for a calming retreat. Building and maintaining the pond was hard work, but those moments made it worthwhile. I really miss hanging out and enjoying that yard.

Pepper and Patches enjoying the pond

A Glimpse Into Silver History

A 1979 Mexican Silver Onza ..
Around the same time I sketched that drawing .. I acquired a .925 Mexican silver coin weighing 33.625 grams with 31.103 grams of pure silver content. It’s a fascinating piece with ribbed edges and intricate designs on both sides. The obverse features a minting device known as "de balancín," while the reverse displays a scale. The detail in the minting device is stunning, and the toning on this particular coin enhances its depth, making it appear almost like high relief.

The “de balancín” is a remarkable piece of minting history. The weighted pole at the top would drive the center part of the device downward with significant force, striking the coin. On this coin, the detail is crisp, and the toning brings out the intricacies beautifully. I’ve collected several of these coins over the years, ranging from near-mint condition with a radiant, frosty shine to others that proudly wear their age with a variety of tones.

Of course, Mr. Huxley had to investigate the coin. Fresh off enjoying a cookie, he must have thought this shiny object was another treat! He sniffed it eagerly and even tried to claim it as his own. I gently explained that this one was for the collection and not edible. His curiosity earned him another cookie—a proper substitute for silver, in his opinion. Watching him sit so attentively for photos was a joy, and I couldn’t help but chuckle at his antics.

Reflections

It’s fascinating how these simple objects .. A sketch and a coin .. can transport us back in time. The sketch reminded me of the creative spark that led to building a pond and the memories we made there. The coin, with its historical significance and craftsmanship, connects me to a different kind of legacy.

And then there’s Mr. Huxley, who brings his own brand of joy and curiosity to every moment. He reminds me to savor the simple things, whether it’s an old drawing, a beautiful coin, or just the pleasure of a cookie shared in good company.

What have you rediscovered lately that brought back a flood of memories?

I’d love to hear your stories!

Thank you for swinging by my blog and checking out the post. Have a great day!

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