Catalog
5 Dollars People and Monuments
| Issuer | Kiribati |
|---|---|
| Year | 1997 |
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| Value | 5 Dollars |
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| Obverse description | Log in to see details |
|---|---|
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| Reverse description | The reverse presents a dramatic proof-finish depiction of a large suspension bridge rendered in fine detail, its cables and towers extending across the darkened field in a striking contrast of polished relief against a matte background. A compass instrument is superimposed over the bridge's structural elements, alluding to engineering and human achievement. The legend 'PEOPLE AND MONUMENTS' arcs along the lower and right periphery in bold raised Latin lettering. The jagged straight edge cuts through the upper left portion of the design, complementing the obverse as part of an interlocking two-coin puzzle set. The overall composition celebrates mankind's architectural and engineering heritage. |
| Reverse script | Latin |
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| Additional information |
Kiribati adopted its constitution and became an independent republic in 1979, separating from the Gilbert Islands colony after Britain had already relinquished the Ellice Islands — which became Tuvalu — two years prior. The new nation inherited almost no monetary infrastructure, and its commemorative coinage program became one of the few revenue streams available to a government with no significant exports beyond fishing licenses and copra.
KM#25 is a small-series issue with limited distribution outside specialist Pacific collections.