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. Many of them are in standard bullion sizes - for example, two ounces of silver (abbreviated as 2 oz Ag, where "Ag" comes from the Latin word for silver, Argentum). Many of these features characters and themes from legends, mythology or religion, such as this one.
This coin is part of the Biblical Series by Scottsdale Mint and features the Biblical Parable of the Prodigal Son as told by Jesus to his disciples.
The coin has a Proof-Antiqued finish and comes in a Bible Gift Box, with a numbered Certificate of Authenticity with the number matching the serial number inscribed on the edge of the coin. The designs on both sides are "rimless" (there is no border around them, so the design can extend to the edge of the coin).
The designs of the series are based on Bible illustrations in Romanticism style by the famous French artist Gustave Doré (1832 - 1883).
The mint says about the coin: "Gustave Doré, an artistic virtuoso of the 19th century, left an indelible mark on the world of illustration and storytelling through his exceptional works. Renowned for his incredible talent, Doré's vivid imagination and technical prowess breathed life into the pages of countless literary classics.
His crowning achievement was his series of illustrations for the Bible, which captured the essence of these sacred stories in remarkable detail. The images he created for the Prodigal Son, a parable that resonates across cultures, have stood the test of time. Each brushstroke and etching reveals the depth of his understanding of the human condition and the profound narratives of faith.
Now, in honor of Gustave Doré's enduring legacy, we proudly present our 2 oz antique silver coin, an exquisite homage to his masterpiece based on the Prodigal Son. This coin encapsulates the essence of Doré's intricate illustrations, allowing you to hold a tangible piece of art that bridges the gap between the ancient and the contemporary.
With its antique finish, it exudes an aura of ageless wisdom, much like the artist himself. As you hold this coin in your hands, you become a part of the rich tapestry of history, art, and faith, celebrating the genius of Gustave Doré and the enduring allure of the Prodigal Son's story." |