Catalog year: 1998

According to the World Gold Council, global gold production in 1998 was approximately 2,500 tonnes. This was a period of relatively stable production, although gold prices at the time were quite low by historical standards.
According to The Silver Institute, global silver production in 1998 was approximately 16,000 tonnes. Silver was widely used in both industry and jewellery at the time.
Global platinum production in 1998 was approximately 130 tonnes. The main producers were South Africa and Russia.
Palladium production in 1998 was estimated at approximately 260 tonnes. Russia was the largest producer of this metal.
It is important to note that 1998 was a difficult year for the global economy due to the Asian financial crisis that began in 1997 and continued to affect global markets. This was also reflected in the precious metals market.
The average price of gold in 1998 was approximately US$294.24 per troy ounce. The average price of silver in 1998 was about US$5.54 per troy ounce.
Overall, world production of the main precious metals in 1998 was approximately - Gold: 2,500 tons, Silver: 16,000 tons, Platinum: 130 tons, Palladium: 260 tons.
In 1998, attention was paid to the release of standard investment coins such as the American Eagle, Canadian Maple Leaf and Chinese Panda, which were minted in large quantities and enjoyed stable demand.
In 1998, a new investment coin made of platinum began to be released - the Australian Koala. Produced by the Perth Mint, this coin quickly gained popularity due to its yearly changing designs and high quality minting.
The 1998 FIFA World Cup saw the release of a commemorative gold coin in the 500 franc denomination featuring a football player. China: The Panda series released a coin featuring a baby panda sitting on a football, also to commemorate the World Cup.
The Royal Canadian Mint introduced laser engraving technology to the Maple Leaf coin, adding microtext and other security features.