Numismatic

1953-1965 New Zealand 1/2 Penny Hei Tiki Elizabeth II BU (Red)

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During the mid twentieth century, New Zealand issued a bronze half penny that beautifully merged British royal tradition with indigenous Maori art. Struck between 1953 and 1965, this coin serves as a fascinating cultural bridge, showcasing two distinct worlds on its obverse and reverse faces. One side of the coin features the youthful, laureate portrait of Queen Elizabeth II, representing the island nation's ties to the British monarchy. The opposite side is dedicated to a powerful symbol of Maori heritage: the Hei Tiki, an ornamental figure intricately detailed with traditional Maori scrolls. This unique combination of designs makes the coin a captivating study in national identity and artistic expression, cataloged under references KM#23.1 and KM#23.2.