2016 New Zealand Proof Currency Set

The 2016 New Zealand Proof Currency Set features special proof versions of New Zealand’s iconic currency coins alongside the 1oz silver proof Queen Elizabeth II - 90th Birthday Coin.

Highlights

• Stunning proof versions of New Zealand’s decimal currency coins
• Includes the Queen Elizabeth II - 90th Birthday silver proof coin
• Worldwide mintage of 1,000 sets
• Each of the coins is uniquely dated 2016.

Design

The Queen Elizabeth II - 90th Birthday Coin features the Duke and Duchess of York (later King George VI and Queen Elizabeth, the Queen Mother) pictured holding their daughter, Princess Elizabeth (later Queen Elizabeth II) as she sleeps in a precious christening gown. The photo has been printed using a minted photo image technique, replicating the photographic look from days gone by. The photograph is framed by beautiful, high-relief gold plating featuring New Zealand’s pöhutukawa flowers.

The set also features proof versions of New Zealand’s circulating currency coins. Each coin is specially dated 2016, making this set a unique collectable to mark the Queen’s 90th Birthday. The coins represent Aotearoa New Zealand’s unique culture, history and identity, and with just 1,000 sets available they won’t last long.

Coins

10-cent coin

The 10-cent coin is the lowest-denomination coin in New Zealand currency, and replaced the New Zealand shilling coin in 1967. As part of changes to New Zealand currency in 2006, the circulating coin became smaller and is now made of copper-plated steel. The reverse features a koruru (carved mask) with heke (rafter) patterns.

20-cent coin

When introduced in 1967 the 20-cent piece replaced the New Zealand florin coin. Initially the coin featured a kiwi, but this was changed in 1990 to a carving of Pukaki, a well known chief of the Ngäti Whakaue tribe. When the silver decimal currency was changed in 2006, the 20-cent piece was redesigned with a ‘Spanish flower’ milling.

50-cent coin

The largest denomination of the original decimal coins, the 50-cent piece replaced the crown coin (five shillings) in 1967. Since its conception, the 50-cent piece has featured the HMS Endeavour on the reverse, the ship on which Captain Cook became the first Briton to reach New Zealand.

One-dollar coin

The New Zealand one-dollar coin was introduced in 1991 to replace the one- dollar note. The reverse features New Zealand’s iconic kiwi surrounded by silver ferns. The kiwi was promoted from its position on the 20-cent coin to bring to life the well known term 'Kiwi dollar'.

Two-dollar coin

The two-dollar coin was introduced in 1991 when the two-dollar note was retired. The reverse features a kotuku (eastern great egret, or white heron), which is held in high regard in Mäori culture. Kotuku are considered to embody rarity, grace and beauty and are considered inhabitants of the spirit world.

Check out more New Zealand coins here.