Catalog
| Issuer | Niue |
|---|---|
| Year | 2017 |
| Type | Collector coin |
| Value | 2 Dollars |
| Currency | Dollar of New Zealand (1987-date) |
| Composition | Silver (.999) |
| Weight | 31.1035 g |
| Diameter | 40 mm |
| Thickness | |
| Shape | Round |
| Technique | Milled, Colored |
| Orientation | |
| Engraver(s) | Ian Rank-Broadley |
| In circulation to | |
| Reference(s) | KM#1433 |
| Obverse description | Bust of Elizabeth II to right above date. |
|---|---|
| Obverse script | Latin |
| Obverse lettering | ELIZABETH II NIUE TWO DOLLARS IRB 2017 |
| Reverse description | Colorized figure of George Washington beside scene of battle. |
| Reverse script | Latin |
| Reverse lettering | YORKTOWN · 1781 1 oz .999 FINE SILVER |
| Edge | Reeded |
| Mint | |
| Mintage |
2017 - Antique Finish - 5 000 |
| Numisquare ID | 1013107870 |
| Additional information |
Historical Context: This 2 Dollar coin, issued by Niue in 2017, features the effigy of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, Head of the Commonwealth, placing it firmly within the modern era of numismatic production. While Niue is a small Pacific island nation, its role as an issuer for a wide range of commemorative themes is well-established. This particular coin commemorates the Battle of Yorktown, a pivotal engagement of the American Revolutionary War in 1781. Its issuance reflects a global appreciation for significant historical events, allowing Niue to connect with collectors interested in military history and the foundations of the United States.
Artistry: The obverse of the coin features the standard effigy of Queen Elizabeth II, likely the acclaimed portrait by Ian Rank-Broadley, characterized by its mature and dignified representation. The reverse design, dedicated to the Battle of Yorktown, falls within the modern commemorative stylistic school, emphasizing detailed realism and narrative depiction. Such designs typically portray a dynamic scene of the battle, perhaps featuring Continental Army and French forces besieging British redoubts, with soldiers, artillery, and flags rendered with historical accuracy. The composition aims to convey the intensity and strategic importance of the siege, often with a focus on key figures or actions.
Technical/Grading: Struck in .999 fine silver, weighing 31.1035 grams (one troy ounce) and measuring 40 mm in diameter, this coin exhibits the technical precision expected of modern minting. The large planchet size allows for exceptional detail in the intricate battle scene. For grading purposes, high-points on the obverse would include the Queen's hair and the raised elements of her crown. On the reverse, the highest points would be the helmets or hats of soldiers, weaponry, and any architectural features of the fortifications. Collectors should anticipate a strong, full strike with sharp details, well-defined rims, and often a proof-like or brilliant uncirculated finish, typical of contemporary silver commemorative issues.