The distinctive array of the Southern Cross stars align with New Zealand's national bird, the kiwi, on the 2010 "Icons of New Zealand" limited edition coins just released by New Zealand Post.
It is the second in a three-year "Icons" series of legal tender, pure gold and silver coins, in which the centrepiece kiwi is accompanied by another important icon of New Zealand's natural environment. For the 2009 coin it was a stylised map of Aotearoa New Zealand itself.
Both the kiwi and the Southern Cross are internationally recognised symbols of New Zealand's national identity and, in combination, reflect this country's unique links between the land and sky. The Southern Cross is an integral part of the national flag and the Coat of Arms.
"Our 2009 Icons of New Zealand coin release was extremely popular among collectors. The gold proof and silver bullion coins sold out within weeks and there is great anticipation for this second release in the series," said Ivor Masters, General Manager Stamps and Coins, New Zealand Post.
Mr Masters said a positive impact already evident from the coin series has been the generation of significant international awareness and interest in New Zealand's rare kiwi.
A gold proof coin, crafted from ΒΌ ounce pure gold with a high quality proof finish, will have a maximum worldwide mintage of 1,500. It is presented in a leatherette case with an individually numbered authentication certificate and will retail for $650.
A one ounce pure silver proof coin, with a maximum mintage of 8,500, comes in a classic presentation case, also with an individually numbered authentication certificate, and retails for $89.
A one ounce pure silver bullion coin, priced at $60 and with a maximum mintage of 12,500, is sealed with an informative and illustrated presentation card.
The coins are available from selected PostShop outlets, REAL Aotearoa stores in Christchurch, Wellington and Auckland, the Wanganui Collectables and Solutions Centre at 0800 782 677, and online at www.nzcoins.co.nz.
ENDS
For more information:
James Te Puni
Sales and Marketing Manager
Tel: 04 496 4522
Mob: 027 226 1435
Email: james.tepuni@nzpost.co.nz
Ivor Masters
General Manager Stamps
Tel: 04 496 4420
Fax: 04 496 4033
Email: ivor.masters@nzpost.co.nz