New zealand coins
New Zealand coins! Here's an overview:
Current Coins
New Zealand has a range of coins in circulation, with denominations from 10 cents to $2. The coins are made of various metals and have different designs. Here are the current coins:
- 10c: Copper-plated zinc, featuring a kiwi bird.
- 20c: Copper-plated zinc, featuring a tuatara reptile.
- 50c: Copper-plated zinc, featuring a korimako (New Zealand bellbird).
- $1: Nickel-plated steel, featuring a silver fern.
- $2: Copper-nickel, featuring a Māori carving of a korimako.
Historical Coins
New Zealand has a rich history of coin production, with many coins featuring iconic designs and themes. Here are some notable historical coins:
- Pre-decimal coins (1840s-1967): These coins featured British monarchs and were made of gold, silver, and copper.
- Decimal coins (1967-1984): Introduced in 1967, these coins featured a new design and were made of cupro-nickel and bronze.
- Māori designs (1984-1990s): This series featured Māori designs and motifs, including the korimako and the silver fern.
- Commonwealth Games coins (1990): A special series of coins was produced for the 1990 Commonwealth Games in Auckland.
- Millennium coins (2000): A set of coins was released to commemorate the start of the new millennium.
Error Coins
Like many countries, New Zealand has had its share of error coins over the years. Some notable examples include:
- Double-strike error (2006): A $2 coin with a double strike, resulting in a double image of the korimako.
- Misaligned strike (2011): A $1 coin with a misaligned strike, resulting in a distorted image of the silver fern.
Collectibility
New Zealand coins are popular among collectors due to their unique designs, limited mintage, and historical significance. Some coins, such as the Māori designs and the Millennium coins, are highly sought after by collectors.
I hope this gives you a good overview of New Zealand coins!