The 1999 Macau Handover commemorative set contains seven uncirculated legal-tender coins authorised for the transfer of administration and the establishment of the Macau SAR on 20 December 1999. Struck by the Royal Canadian Mint, it is widely regarded as the last major Macau circulating-coin commemorative programme of the Portuguese administration period.
Seven denominations and Macau scenes
Denominations run from 10, 20 and 50 avos to 1, 2, 5 and 10 patacas (total face value MOP 18.80). One side of each coin carries a Macau landmark or local theme; the common side shows the historic Municipality of Macau coat of arms with angels supporting the shield.
- 10 avos: Sun Yat-sen Memorial Park and a handshake; 20 avos: the Monetary Authority building with coins and gold bars; 50 avos: jetfoil, aircraft and Friendship Bridge.
- 1 pataca: Macau Cultural Centre; 2 patacas: Ruins of St Paul’s with a Formula Three car; 5 patacas: Hotel Lisboa and greyhound racing; 10 patacas: the Governor’s Palace.
Mintage and set integrity
- Decree-Law No. 54/99/M capped each design at 288,888 pieces — equal to 288,888 complete sets.
- Because the coins were issued for collectors rather than general circulation, original sealed acrylic, intact outer box and untouched surfaces matter most.