Peter Anthony: The 1982 1 oz. gold Panda is a very popular, sought-after date. After 30 years it is still the classic design. The mintage is a low 13,532 which reflects the modest expectations the China Mint had for the coins. Collectors loved the beautiful design by Shanghai artist Chen Jian and a shortage of this date soon sent prices zooming higher. Although there is no denomination, the China Mint has always contended that it is a coin, not a medal. Most numismatists agree with that today. It is very difficult to find an MS-69 of this date; most coins have flaws and many were mishandled. Also, the sealed plastic pouch contains PVC and three decades has provided plenty of time to impair a coin.
The 1982 1 oz. gold Panda Panda is part of three NGC Registry sets: Gold 1 Ounce Panda, 1982-Date, Mint State," "Gold 1 Ounce Panda, 1982-Date, Mint State (Incl. Varieties)," and "Gold 1 Ounce Panda, 1982-Date, Mint State and Proof."