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5 Dollars Haliotis iris
| Issuer | Palau |
|---|---|
| Year | 2012 |
| Type | Log in to see details |
| Value | 5 Dollars (5 USD) |
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| Composition | Log in to see details |
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| Obverse description | The obverse is struck in high relief on a flan shaped to replicate the exterior of an abalone shell (Haliotis iris), with the naturally textured, undulating surface rendered in fine detail across the entire field. At centre, the coat of arms of the Republic of Palau is depicted within a shield, featuring a traditional mariner figure and a mermaid flanking a central device, surmounted by a star and crescent motif. The curved legend REPUBLIC OF PALAU arcs along the upper periphery, while the motto RAINBOW'S END appears on a scroll below the shield. The denomination 5$ is inscribed in the lower field. The overall composition faithfully reproduces the organic contour and surface texture of the abalone shell. |
|---|---|
| Obverse script | Log in to see details |
| Obverse lettering | REPUBLIC OF PALAU RAINBOW'S END 5$ |
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| Additional information |
Palau has issued nature-themed silver coins since the late 1990s, many incorporating organic materials directly into the planchet — shells, coral, sand, and similar inclusions. This piece features an inlay of actual Haliotis iris shell, the New Zealand pāua abalone, whose iridescent nacre cannot be replicated by any minting process. The shell material is sourced and cut before being set into the coin during striking.
Palau holds no native population of H. iris — the species is endemic to New Zealand coastal waters, where it is both a regulated fishery and a culturally significant species to Māori.