Niue, a sovereign state in free association with New Zealand, uses two official legal tender currencies. The New Zealand Dollar is the circulation currency for daily transactions, while the government also authorises legal tender coins in the Niue Dollar currency for collector's purposes.
A number of mints issue a large variety of commemorative, bullion and collector coins under the authority of Niue. These coins are dedicated to historical or general popular culture themes not related to Niue itself.
Some coins are marketed in standard bullion sizes, like half ounce silver, one ounce silver etc, and some of those are also denominated as $1, for which see respective lists. This coin, denominated as One Niue Dollar, is not in a standard ounce-based size and is made using a "smartminting" technique - meaning that it has features not generally found in circulation coins.
The Mint says about this coin: The greatest archaeological discovery of recent years! In the area of the ancient city of Vulci, north of Rome, precious golden scarabeus and Egyptian jewellery exquisitely crafted in turquoise were found. This amazing treasure was discovered in the spring of 2016, after the priceless treasures of the Etruscan princess had lain buried for more than 2800 years!
The Turqoise Scarabeus (or "scarab") is a metaphorical joining of sky, water and sun. The coin radiates positive energy, charmed in turquoise millions of years ago. This exceptional keepsake decorated with selective gilding and a delightful precious stone can be yours today. In ancient Egypt, scarabs were thought to be the personification of divinity, as well as a symbol of rebirth and the journey of the sun disk across the heavens. Images of scarabs, forged from precious metals and costly stones, served as amulets and even as currency. Today, the scarab-shaped amulets are excavated in the countries that once had close commercial relations with Ancient Egypt. The bluish-green shade of this rare mineral combines the energy of sky and water. In the kingdom of the Pharaohs, it symbolised the life-giving waters of the Nile.
Also today turquoise is believed to have beneficial effects. This beautiful precious stone not only enhances creativity and self-fulfilment, but also symbolises commitment and sincerity. |