Catalog
| Issuer | Samoa |
|---|---|
| Year | 2025 |
| Type | Non-circulating coin |
| Value | 10 Dollars |
| Currency | Tala (1967-date) |
| Composition | Gold (.999) plated silver (.999) (With Green Enameling, Lapis Lazuli and Onyx Gemstone Inlay) |
| Weight | 155.5 g |
| Diameter | |
| Thickness | |
| Shape | Sculptural (Grail) |
| Technique | Colored, Inlaid, Milled |
| Orientation | |
| Engraver(s) | |
| In circulation to | |
| Reference(s) | KM#934 |
| Obverse description | On bottom of chalice stand with coat of arms in center, country and date above, weight, fineness and denominations below. |
|---|---|
| Obverse script | Latin |
| Obverse lettering |
SAMOA 2025 FA`AVAE I LE ATUA SAMOA 5 oz 10 DOLLARS Ag 999 (Translation: God be the Foundation of Samoa) |
| Reverse description | Cup with ornamentation, crafted of gold plated silver. |
| Reverse script | |
| Reverse lettering | |
| Edge | Chalice made of multiple sections. On the uppermost region, we |
| Mint | |
| Mintage |
2025 - Proof - 500 |
| Numisquare ID | 2768888760 |
| Additional information |
Historical Context: The 2025 Samoa 10 Dollars "Holy Grail" exemplifies modern numismatic trends, with sovereign nations issuing coins celebrating universal myths. As a parliamentary republic, Samoa uses such themes to engage a global collector base, transcending national narratives. The Holy Grail, a powerful symbol of spiritual quest and ultimate attainment, offers timeless appeal. This issue taps into Arthurian legend and mysticism, representing human aspirations for meaning and discovery.
Artistry: No specific engraver is identified; design aligns with contemporary numismatic artistry, emphasizing elaborate detail and multi-material integration. The stylistic school leans towards a neo-medieval fantasy aesthetic, utilizing intricate motifs associated with Arthurian romance. The central design likely features a highly stylized Holy Grail, surrounded by symbolic elements. Strategic incorporation of vibrant green enameling, deep blue lapis lazuli, and lustrous black onyx elevates the design, creating a rich, textural tapestry enhancing its mythical allure and visual impact.
Technical/Grading: This substantial 155.5-gram coin, crafted from gold-plated .999 silver, likely exhibits an ultra-high relief strike, allowing for profound depth and intricate detail. High points include the chalice's rim and gemstone inlay edges. The technical strike quality is paramount, demanding exceptional precision to integrate enameling, lapis lazuli, and onyx without compromising the underlying relief or proof-like fields. Grading assesses plating integrity, enamel application, gemstone seating, and strike sharpness.