1(contact info removed) Pirate Money

The “Indonesia Pitis Palembang” refers to a series of low-denomination tin coins, known as pitis (or pittis), issued by the Palembang Sultanate in southern Sumatra, Indonesia. These are often marketed in the numismatic world as “genuine pirate money” due to their historical association with piracy in the Strait of Malacca, a notorious hotspot for maritime raids during the 17th–19th centuries. The coins were minted between approximately 1658 and 1805 (corresponding to the Islamic calendar AH 1068–1220), and NGC (Numismatic Guaranty Corporation) certifies them as Genuine, encapsulating them in slabs with a custom “Pirate Money” label to highlight their thematic appeal. This label is a marketing feature added by NGC or dealers to evoke the era’s seafaring lore, making them popular as affordable “pirate booty” for collectors. These coins are not rare in the absolute sense—thousands were produced as everyday currency—but their certification and storytelling elevate them from bulk world coins to themed collectibles. They typically sell for $35–$50 each, depending on condition and slab details. • Current Value (as of September 2025): $35–$55 for a standard NGC Genuine slabbed example. Premiums apply for better eye appeal (e.g., minimal corrosion) or lots of multiples.

Condition

Used (normal wear)

Certification

NGC