Catalog
50 Dollars - Charles III Doctor Yellow
| Issuer | Cook Islands |
|---|---|
| Year | 2025 |
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| Composition | Gold (.9999) |
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|---|---|
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| Reverse description | Coloured frontal depiction of the Class 923 Shinkansen inspection train, popularly known as 'Doctor Yellow', shown approaching along converging railway tracks that recede into the lower field. The central motif is surrounded by a decorative border incorporating traditional Japanese patterns including seigaiha (overlapping waves) and floral geometric designs rendered in blue and gold, with an image of Mount Fuji at sunrise occupying the left field and a panel of colourful kiku (chrysanthemum) blossoms to the right. The legend 'Class 923 / Dr. Yellow / 2001-2025' appears in the upper field, the denomination '$50' is inscribed at the base of the central design, and the fineness '.9999' is noted in the lower exergue. |
| Reverse script | Latin |
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| Additional information |
The "Doctor Yellow" shinkansen — formally designated 923 series — operated as an inspection train on Japan's Shinkansen network, measuring track geometry, overhead wire condition, and signal systems at operational speeds. Rarely seen by the public due to its irregular schedule, it acquired a folklore reputation in Japan: spotting one was considered good luck, a superstition that drove genuine crowds to station platforms on rumored run days. The Cook Islands has leveraged its long-running licensing arrangements to issue collectible gold in formats that major mints typically avoid.