Catalog
| Issuer | New Zealand |
|---|---|
| Year | 2015 |
| Type | Non-circulating coin |
| Value | 1 Dollar |
| Currency | Dollar (1967-date) |
| Composition | Silver (.999) |
| Weight | 31.1 g |
| Diameter | 40 mm |
| Thickness | 3 mm |
| Shape | Round with cutouts (Kiwi bird shaped cutout) |
| Technique | Milled |
| Orientation | Medal alignment ↑↑ |
| Engraver(s) | |
| In circulation to | |
| Reference(s) |
| Obverse description | Small fourth crowned portrait of Queen Elizabeth II facing right, wearing the Girls of Great Britain and Ireland Tiara, legend around, date below. The silhouette of a kiwi bird has been cut out. |
|---|---|
| Obverse script | Latin |
| Obverse lettering | NEW ZEALAND ELIZABETH II IRB 2015 |
| Reverse description | Native plants of New Zealand. The silhouette of a kiwi bird has been cut out of the coin. |
| Reverse script | Latin |
| Reverse lettering | ONE DOLLAR |
| Edge | Reeded |
| Mint | |
| Mintage |
2015 - Proof - 2 000 |
| Numisquare ID | 1015758220 |
| Additional information |
Historical Context: This 2015 New Zealand One Dollar coin features the Ian Rank-Broadley Fourth Portrait of Queen Elizabeth II, an effigy used across Commonwealth coinage from 1998 to 2015. Issued during her extensive reign, this silver commemorative piece reflects New Zealand's growing production of numismatic items tailored for collectors. It celebrates national identity and natural heritage, underscoring the enduring connection between Commonwealth realms and the monarch.
Artistry: The obverse prominently displays Ian Rank-Broadley's definitive Fourth Portrait of Queen Elizabeth II, characterized by its mature and dignified portrayal. The reverse design, featuring a striking silhouette of the iconic Kiwi bird, exemplifies a modern, stylized approach to national symbolism. This artistic choice effectively captures the essence of New Zealand's unique fauna, presenting the flightless bird as a powerful national emblem. Its clarity and bold lines are typical of contemporary commemorative issues.
Technical/Grading: Struck in .999 fine silver, weighing 31.1 grams with a 40-millimeter diameter, this coin typically exhibits a high-quality proof or brilliant uncirculated strike. Key high-points for grading on the obverse include the Queen's hair details and diadem. On the reverse, the integrity and sharp definition of the Kiwi silhouette, particularly its beak and leg contours, are crucial. Broad fields allow excellent preservation of surface quality, often featuring frosted devices against mirrored fields, indicative of a premium strike.