Niue: First two-ounce silver coin in new eye-catching series “Fierce Nature” features lion’s head 

The treasury of Niue has released the first coin, which launches a new series entitled “Fierce Nature” and focuses on the beauty and expressiveness of the faces of many species of wildlife — even those considered as ferocious. The first release in the four-coin series focuses on the lion — also known as the “King of the Jungle.” This term has described the lion since it was first attributed to Impresario P.T. Barnum’s book entitled The King of the Animal Kingdom, published in 1889. He had described the lion as the supreme animal in the jungle, a word with origins in India meaning “an uninhabited place.” Over time, the term evolved to aptly describe the lion as King of the jungle and has taken root. Its fearless demeanour and territorial stance ensured it would reign supreme amongst all other animals in its domain. With no other natural enemies or predators in the wild — except for man — the lion has remained a symbol of strength and courage, with male lions easily identified due to their full and distinctive mane.

The coins are produced by the New Zealand Mint at their facilities in Auckland, on behalf of the treasury of Niue. The reverse side of this innovative two-ounce pure silver coin showcases a grand presentation of a front-facing lion’s head, with his mouth open wide, roaring his message of warning. It is struck utilising the shape of the animal’s face and fully engraved with an antiqued application to enhance the features of the King of the Jungle. The obverse side includes an effigy of HM Queen Elizabeth II engraved by British sculptor Ian Rank-Broadley. The denomination of FIVE DOLLARS and the year of issue 2022 are shown around the Queen’s likeness. The coins’ specification of 2 oz 999 Fine Silver is placed below the effigy.

Denom.	Metal	Weight	Dimensions	Quality	Maximum Mintage
Five dollars	.999 Silver	62.2 g	40 mm x 38.56 mm	Oxidised Proof	2,000

Each coin is specially encapsulated to accommodate its unique shape and presented in a custom case with a transparent cover to enhance its display. The coin is also accompanied by a certificate of authenticity. The next coin scheduled will feature the fierce tiger with a release date yet undetermined. For additional information about this coin, please click here.

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