Sprinkle yeast into warm water and stir just enough to blend.

Let it stand until dissolved.

In a small pot, heat milk and butter together until the butter melts (be careful not to let it boil).

Transfer the mixture into a large bowl, add sugar, and cool to lukewarm.

Add eggs one at a time, beating with a fork or whisk until smooth.

Add the dissolved yeast.

Mix in orange peel, lemon peel, and salt.

Gradually add 3 cups of flour, beating on low with an electric mixer for 5 minutes.

Place the dough on a lightly floured board and knead until smooth and no longer sticky (about 5 to 10 minutes).

If necessary, knead in additional flour.

Place the dough in a large greased bowl and lightly grease the top with melted butter.

Cover with plastic wrap and let it rise in a warm place until doubled in size (about 1½ hours).

Put the risen dough on a lightly floured board and knead lightly.

Optionally, place a washed silver coin in the dough.

Shape it into a round cake about 9 inches in diameter.

Place the dough on a greased baking sheet.

Cover and let it rise until doubled (about 40 minutes).

Preheat the oven to 325ºF.

Brush the egg yolk mixture evenly over the loaf.

Arrange almonds on top forming the numerals of the coming year.

Bake for 40 minutes, or until golden brown.

Serve warm.