Introduction Coins made of nickel or containing nickel (copper-nickel, nickel-plated, etc.) have a special appeal among collectors, because they often represent transitional phases in minting technology, responses to economic pressures (like the rising cost of silver), or aesthetic and metallurgical experimentation. In the Netherlands, while many older coins were silver or copper based, the mid-20th century onward saw increasing use of nickel (or nickel alloys) for durability, cost, and modernization. Rarity in these coins may arise from low mintage, withdrawal before general circulation, errors, proof issues, or wartime constraints. This article explores the Dutch context: what coins qualify, which are rare, and what makes them valuable to collectors, along with broader historical context. 2. His...
Introduction
The Philippines, a land of deep spirituality, mysticism, and cultural diversity, is home to countless traditions that blur the line between religion and folklore. Among these traditions, few are as captivating as the belief in the anting-anting, a charm or amulet believed to hold supernatural powers. While these objects can be made from various materials—stone, wood, cloth, or bone—one of the most prestigious and revered forms is the gold anting-anting.
Gold, being a symbol of purity, wealth, and divine energy, adds another layer of sacred meaning to the already powerful concept of the anting-anting. For centuries, Filipinos have turned to these charms not only for protection but also for success, healing, and spiritual strength. In this article, we will explore the fascinating world of gold charms in the Philippines—their history, symbolism, types, and enduring presence in modern times.
Chapter 1: Origins of the Anting-Anting
Pre-Colonial Beliefs
Before the arrival of the Spaniards, early Filipinos believed in animism—the idea that spirits reside in natural elements such as trees, rivers, mountains, and even animals. These spirits were thought to influence human life, bringing blessings or misfortune. To deal with unseen forces, people relied on babaylans (shamans) and mangkukulam (folk healers) who crafted charms for protection and empowerment.
Anting-anting emerged as tangible objects of spiritual energy. Made of stones, animal bones, or carved wood, they carried inscriptions, symbols, or prayers that connected the wearer to unseen powers. Gold, when available, was considered an even more potent medium because it did not corrode and was believed to channel divine energy more effectively.
Spanish Colonization and Christian Influence
When the Spaniards arrived in the 16th century, Catholicism became deeply entwined with Filipino beliefs. Interestingly, instead of eliminating the anting-anting tradition, Spanish religious influence blended with it. Amulets began to carry Latin prayers, Catholic symbols, images of Jesus Christ, the Virgin Mary, or saints.
For example, some gold anting-anting were engraved with the Eye of God, the Sacred Heart of Jesus, or the Agnus Dei (Lamb of God). This fusion of Catholicism and indigenous mysticism made the anting-anting a unique Filipino spiritual artifact—half Christian relic, half pagan charm.
Chapter 2: Why Gold Matters in Anting-Anting
Gold has always been associated with sacredness, purity, and power across cultures. In the Filipino context, gold elevates an anting-anting from an ordinary charm to an extraordinary one.
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Purity and Incorruptibility – Gold does not tarnish, symbolizing eternal power. An amulet made of gold was believed to last forever, holding spiritual energy permanently.
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Wealth and Prosperity – Since ancient times, gold has been a sign of abundance. Gold anting-anting were often worn by leaders, revolutionaries, or wealthy individuals.
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Divine Connection – Many Filipinos believed that gold was a metal closest to the heavens, capable of attracting divine blessings.
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Status Symbol – Beyond spiritual use, wearing gold anting-anting marked someone as powerful, influential, or spiritually gifted.
Because of these attributes, gold became the ultimate material for crafting potent charms.
Chapter 3: Types of Gold Anting-Anting
There are countless variations of anting-anting, but the following are some of the most common and legendary ones crafted from gold.
1. Anting-Anting ng Kaligtasan (Charm of Protection)
Worn to safeguard against physical harm, bullets, knives, and accidents. Revolutionaries in the Philippine-American War often wore gold pendants engraved with protective prayers.
2. Anting-Anting ng Kayamanan (Charm of Wealth)
This type promises prosperity and financial stability. Gold coins were sometimes fashioned into pendants, believed to attract more gold and money into the wearer’s life.
3. Anting-Anting ng Pag-ibig (Charm of Love)
Gold lockets inscribed with symbols of the heart, cross, or mystical words were carried to attract romance, faithfulness, or reconciliation in relationships.
4. Anting-Anting ng Gamutan (Charm of Healing)
Believed to cure illnesses or ward off disease, these were sometimes engraved with the Latin phrase “San Roque,” the patron saint of healing.
5. Anting-Anting ng Walang Kamatayan (Charm of Immortality)
One of the most powerful types, this was believed to make the wearer invincible in battle. Warriors and katipuneros sought these charms, especially when made of gold.
6. Anting-Anting ng Kabutihan at Karunungan (Charm of Wisdom and Goodness)
These charms were carried by spiritual leaders and healers. Inscribed with prayers and golden suns, they were said to grant wisdom and guidance.
Chapter 4: Historical Figures and Gold Anting-Anting
Throughout history, many Filipino heroes and revolutionaries were rumored to have worn anting-anting, some specifically made of gold.
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Andres Bonifacio, the Father of the Philippine Revolution, was believed to own protective amulets.
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Macario Sakay, a revolutionary leader, wore a vest decorated with mystical symbols as his anting-anting.
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Folk healers and albularyos often wore gold pendants or rings, claiming it boosted their healing powers.
For these leaders, gold anting-anting were not just ornaments but sources of confidence and spiritual armor against enemies.
Chapter 5: Rituals and Beliefs
Anting-anting are rarely effective without rituals. Believers say that a gold charm must be blessed through prayers, fasting, and initiation ceremonies.
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Holy Week Rituals – Many Filipinos believe the best time to recharge anting-anting is during Holy Week, especially on Good Friday when Christ is believed to be “dead” and the forces of the universe are at their peak.
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Orasyon (Prayers) – Latin prayers or incantations are recited to activate the charm.
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Oil and Blood – Some rituals involved rubbing oil or even drops of blood on the golden charm to “seal” its power.
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Inheritance – Gold anting-anting are often passed down from generation to generation, believed to carry ancestral power.
Chapter 6: Symbolism of Gold in Filipino Spirituality
Gold, aside from material wealth, holds deep symbolic meaning:
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Sun and Light – Gold represents the sun, the ultimate life-giving force.
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Immortality – Because it does not decay, gold became a metaphor for eternal life.
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Divinity – In Catholic practice, gold is used in altars, chalices, and vestments, linking it to holiness.
Thus, a gold anting-anting combines the power of natural elements, Catholic faith, and ancestral magic into a single artifact.
Chapter 7: Gold Anting-Anting in Modern Times
Even in the 21st century, belief in anting-anting persists.
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Collectors – Antique dealers and collectors seek gold anting-anting for their rarity and craftsmanship.
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Politicians and Businessmen – Some are rumored to secretly wear gold charms for protection and success.
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Movies and Television – Filipino films often portray heroes and villains using anting-anting.
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Urban Legends – Tales of criminals surviving bullets or ordinary people winning the lottery with the help of a golden charm still circulate today.
In modern society, the anting-anting exists both as a folk belief and as a cultural artifact, bridging past and present.
Chapter 8: Comparison with Other Cultures
Filipino gold charms share similarities with other traditions:
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Chinese Feng Shui Charms – Like the Pixiu, believed to attract wealth.
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European Talismans – Medieval knights carried charms for protection in battle.
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African Amulets – Often crafted from precious metals to channel spiritual energy.
This shows that belief in gold charms is universal, but in the Philippines, it is uniquely shaped by a blend of indigenous mysticism and Catholic faith.
Chapter 9: The Legacy of Gold Anting-Anting
Gold anting-anting represent more than superstition. They are symbols of:
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The Filipino struggle for freedom (worn by revolutionaries).
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The resilience of local traditions despite colonization.
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The deep human desire for protection, hope, and miracles.
Whether or not one believes in their mystical powers, gold charms are undeniably cultural treasures that reflect the soul of the Filipino people.
Conclusion
The gold anting-anting of the Philippines is more than just jewelry or superstition—it is a living tradition that embodies faith, heritage, and the enduring Filipino spirit. From pre-colonial shamans to Spanish friars, from revolutionaries to modern collectors, these charms have stood as silent witnesses to centuries of belief and struggle.
Even today, the glimmer of a gold anting-anting is not just a sign of wealth, but a beacon of protection, power, and mystery.
In the end, whether seen as a sacred relic or a collectible item, the gold anting-anting will always remain a fascinating symbol of the Philippines’ unique blend of spirituality and culture.
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