As so many things in life have turned virtual and are done online, there is a growing desire to reconnect with history through objects that can be held and preserved. Collecting is no longer a niche pursuit for many, coins, banknotes, and documents have become tangible links to the past. Each piece tells a story that makes a personal collection a wealth of memories.
This renewed interest takes the spotlight this summer as Minted MNL presents Where Stories Bloom (Summer Show 2026) on March 14 and 15, bringing together collectors and first-time enthusiasts for a two-day celebration.
Founded by Sigrid Carandang, Minted MNL continues to expand its reach within the heritage collecting community. Last year’s auction drew record participation, with Carandang noting that most attendees were collectors of coins, paper money, medals, stamps, comics, and antiques. Still, she says predicting this year’s most coveted item is difficult.
Among the early standouts is a rare 2,000-piso commemorative banknote issued in 1998 for the centennial of Philippine independence. Featuring then-president Joseph Estrada taking his oath at Barasoain Church, the note connects modern leadership to the country’s revolutionary roots. Withdrawn from circulation in 2015, surviving examples have since become prized collectibles.
Another highlight is the Ferdinand and Imelda Marcos P5,000 gold coin in its elusive blue edition, valued at around P900,000. Political changes over the years led to many commemorative coins being lost or melted, making existing pieces increasingly scarce.
Perhaps the most historically significant artifact is a certificate signed by Emilio Aguinaldo on October 31, 1899 — just days before the Fall of Tarlac. Bearing the seal of the First Philippine Republic, the document represents a rare surviving fragment of sovereignty from a fragile moment in the nation’s early history.
Aside from the auction, the event offers talks, exhibits, family-friendly activities, and a painting workshop aimed at making heritage collecting accessible to all ages.
Event schedule:
- March 13 – Online auction launch
- March 14 – Main auction at The Westin Manila
- March 15 – Activities and exhibits
Where Stories Bloom presents collecting as a bridge between history and personal discovery — where objects become storytellers and the past remains within reach.
