2 Dollars - Elizabeth II (Athena Owl; Colorized) 2017 front 2 Dollars - Elizabeth II (Athena Owl; Colorized) 2017 back
2 Dollars - Elizabeth II (Athena Owl; Colorized) 2017 photo
© Dazzling Coins

2 Dollars - Elizabeth II Athena Owl; Colorized

2017 year
Silver (.999) 31.1035 g 38.61 mm
Description
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, Coloured
Updated
2024-10-06
References
Numista
N#127248
Rarity index
95%

Reverse

Colorized owl on branch, crescent moon, and olive branch on colorized 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

One interesting fact about the Niue 2017 $2 Elizabeth II (Athena Owl; Colorized) silver coin is that it features a unique colorized design, showcasing the owl in vibrant hues, making it stand out from other coins in the series.