Catalog
| Issuer | Niue |
|---|---|
| Year | 2013 |
| Type | Collector coin |
| Value | 1 Dollar |
| Currency | Dollar of New Zealand (1987-date) |
| Composition | Silver (.999) |
| Weight | 33.3 g |
| Diameter | |
| Thickness | |
| Shape | Rectangular |
| Technique | Milled, Colored |
| Orientation | Medal alignment ↑↑ |
| Engraver(s) | |
| In circulation to | |
| Reference(s) | KM#2004 |
| Obverse description | The Effigy of HM Queen Elizabeth II |
|---|---|
| Obverse script | Latin |
| Obverse lettering | ELIZABETH II - 2013 - NIUE ISLAND 1/15th of 15 Dollars |
| Reverse description | |
| Reverse script | |
| Reverse lettering | |
| Edge | Smooth |
| Mint | |
| Mintage |
2013 - Proof - 300 |
| Numisquare ID | 1009255170 |
| Additional information |
Historical Context: Issued by Niue in 2013, this 1 Dollar coin belongs to the extensive reign of Queen Elizabeth II, Head of the Commonwealth. Niue, a self-governing island in free association with New Zealand, often issues commemorative coinage for cultural themes and revenue. Titled "The Mystic Nativity: 3/15," this piece is part of a specialized collectible series, likely focusing on religious art or historical masterpieces, appealing to a global numismatic audience.
Artistry: The coin's design is inspired by Sandro Botticelli's renowned Early Renaissance painting, "The Mystic Nativity." While the specific engraver is not detailed, the obverse features the standard Queen Elizabeth II effigy, likely the Ian Rank-Broadley portrait. The reverse meticulously interprets Botticelli's complex and symbolic scene, characterized by vibrant figures, intricate drapery, and a mystical atmosphere. The mint's artists translated this detailed masterpiece into a compelling three-dimensional numismatic relief, employing advanced techniques.
Technical/Grading: Struck in .999 fine silver with a substantial 33.3 gram weight, this commemorative coin typically exhibits proof-quality characteristics. High-points for grading include the intricate details of figures' faces, hands, and garment folds, plus any architectural or halo elements in the Nativity scene. A premium strike reveals full detail in these areas, often with frosted devices contrasting against highly polished fields. Collectors should examine for handling marks or hairlines, detracting from the pristine mirror surfaces expected of such a finely produced piece.