Niue: Second silver Proof and colour coin released in “DC Villains” comic book series features the Riddler

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The government and treasury of Niue have released the second coin design in the current series entitled “DC Villains,” featuring some of the comic book world’s most well-known and infamous evil-doers. The second release features the Riddler, created by Bill Finger and Dick Sprang; he debuted in Detective Comics #140 in October 1948. The Riddler has become one of the most enduring enemies of the superhero Batman and belongs to the collective of opponents that make up his long list of archenemies. Consistently voted as one of the top five “best of the worst villains” by avid comic book aficionados, Edward Nygma, aka the Riddler, dressed in his distinctive green body suit, purple gloves, and golden walking stick topped with a question mark, challenges Batman’s intellect with complex puzzles and riddles that keep readers engaged in solving mysteries alongside their hero. With his narcissistic personality and obsessive need for validation, this adversary adds an element of cerebral intrigue to Gotham City’s rogues’ gallery. The Riddler was first brought to life on American television in 1966 when Batman premiered and was memorably portrayed by actor Frank Gorshin, later during the series by John Astin. The character was first seen on the silver screen in 1995 with the feature film Batman Forever, and actor Jim Carrey playing the super-villain.

The New Zealand Mint produces the coins at their facilities in Auckland on behalf of the Treasury of Niue. The obverse side features a colour image of the Riddler, sporting his trademark wicked smile and holding his signature cane. The background includes detailed engravings based on some of the villain’s iconic appearances in DC Comics. Along the upper left rim is incused text denoting the coins’ specifications: 3 or 1 oz 999 Fine Silver THE RIDDLER TM & © DC (s23). The reverse side includes the replicated official seal of the government of Niue, which is centred. The denomination TWO DOLLARS (one ounce) or TEN DOLLARS (three ounces) is shown above the seal, and the year of release, 2023, is placed below the crest.

Denom.	Metal	Weight	Diameter	Quality	Mintage Limit
2 dollars	.999 Silver	31.1 g	40 mm	Proof with applied colour	3,000
10 dollars	.999 Silver	93.3 g	55 mm	Proof with applied colour	1,000

Both one and three-ounce silver Proof and colour coins are encapsulated and presented in a custom-designed DC Comics-themed collector’s box, ideal for display, and includes a certificate of authenticity. A previous coin in the series featuring the Joker is also available. For additional information, please click here for the one-ounce silver coin or here for the three-ounce silver coin.

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