Silver Ounce 1994 Bird of Paradise, Coin from Papua New Guinea - detailed information

Papua New Guinea has issued its circulating currency, the Kina, since 1975 (it was introduced even before the country gained formal independence).

The country also authorises some foreign mints to issue Non-Circulating Legal Tender (NCLT) coins under its jurisdiction. These coins are usually in popular international collector formats, such as one troy ounce (1oz) of silver.

This coin (which is slightly lighter than a troy ounce) is part of a three-coin series by Valcambi which re-creates the famous Bird of Paradise design of the first coins issued for New Guinea, on the occasion of the Centennial of New Guinea coinage (its 100th anniversary).

Birds of paradise are exotic birds of which a total of 41 species are known. They belong to the order of passerine birds (Passeriformes) within the family Paradisaeidae and are mainly native to New Guinea. The males are distinguished by their particularly colourful plumage and have always been considered a great source of inspiration - not only for the local population, but also for artists around the world. The bird features both on the national emblem of the country and on its flag.

The Bird of Paradise was depicted on the coinage issued by the German "Neu-Guinea Compagnie" (New Guinea Company) in 1894 and 1895 for the colony of German New Guinea; these coins remained legal tender there until 1911, when they were replaced by regular German imperial coinage. The depiction of the bird by Berlin Mint designer Otto Schultz (best known for his portrait of South African president Paul Kruger, still used on the Krugerrand), makes the coins - like the 20 Marks - arguably the most beautiful gold coin ever issued.