© Dazzling Coins
© Dazzling Coins
2 Dollars - Elizabeth II Athena Owl; Black and Gold
2017 year| Silver (.999) | 31.1035 g | 38.61 mm |
| Issuer | Niue |
|---|---|
| Queen | Elizabeth II (1952-2022) |
| Type | Non-circulating coin |
| Year | 2017 |
| Value | 2 Dollars 2 NZD = USD 1.23 |
| Currency | Dollar of New Zealand (1987-date) |
| Composition | Silver (.999) |
| Weight | 31.1035 g |
| Diameter | 38.61 mm |
| Thickness | 2.3 mm |
| Shape | Round |
| Technique | Milled |
| Updated | 2024-10-06 |
| Numista | N#127247 |
|---|---|
| Rarity index | 94% |
Reverse
Gilded owl on branch, crescent moon, and olive branch on black background. Metal weight and fineness below.
Script: Latin
Lettering:
ΑΘΕ
1OZ .999 FINE SILVER
Edge
Reeded
Comment
The Niue Athenian Owl 1 oz Silver Bullion Coin is inspired by the ‘Tetradrachm’, an Ancient Greek coin with a face value of four drachmae. Struck in honour of Athena, the Greek Tetradrachm coin featured an image of the goddess in its obverse and an owl, the official polis of Athens complete with olive branch and crescent moon, on its reverse. The owl is a symbol of truth and wisdom and, per ancient mythology, sat on Athena’s ‘blind side’ to enable her to see the whole truth.The coin was in wide circulation between 510 to 38 BC and is the best-known of all ancient coins. Early Owls were struck from Silver from various locations, including Laurium near Athens.
Interesting fact
The Athena Owl coin from Niue is a unique and interesting coin because it features a black and gold coloration, which is not common in coins. The black and gold colors are achieved through a special minting process that involves applying a layer of gold and black rhodium to the silver coin. This process gives the coin a distinctive and eye-catching appearance that sets it apart from other coins. Additionally, the coin's design features an owl, which is a symbol of wisdom and intelligence, making it a meaningful and collectible coin for coin enthusiasts.
