10 Dollars - Elizabeth II African Lion vs. Chinese Guardian Lion

Historical Context: This substantial 10 Dollar coin, issued by Tokelau in 2022, holds particular significance as it was released during the final year of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II's reign. As a non-self-governing territory of New Zealand and part of the Commonwealth, Tokelau consistently featured the Queen's effigy on its coinage. The year 2022 marked her Platinum Jubilee, adding a poignant layer to any numismatic issues from this period, shortly before her passing. This piece exemplifies the modern trend of issuing large-format collector coins by smaller nations, often to commemorate global themes or cultural juxtapositions, such as the powerful "African Lion vs. Chinese Guardian Lion" motif.

Artistry: The obverse of this coin would feature the dignified effigy of Queen Elizabeth II, likely one of the more recent portraits such as those by Ian Rank-Broadley or Jody Clark, rendered with precision typical of modern minting. The reverse presents a striking artistic dichotomy: a naturalistic depiction of an African Lion, emphasizing its raw power and untamed spirit, juxtaposed against a highly stylized Chinese Guardian Lion, embodying traditional symbolism, strength, and protection. While a specific engraver is not noted, the design reflects a contemporary numismatic aesthetic that blends realism with cultural motif interpretation, characteristic of modern commemorative issues where design firms often execute intricate concepts.

Technical/Grading: Weighing an impressive 419.85 grams and spanning 80 millimeters in diameter, this coin is a monumental collector's piece. Its composition of .999 fine silver clad copper indicates a strategic choice to produce a visually imposing, large-diameter coin while managing material costs. For grading, high-points to observe would include the intricate details of the Queen's crown and hair on the obverse. On the reverse, the individual strands of the African Lion's mane, the musculature, and the stylized features and intricate patterns of the Chinese Guardian Lion's mane and face would be critical areas for strike quality and potential wear. The sheer size allows for exceptional detail and a broad, expansive field.