Numismatic

2019 Niue 1 oz Gold Proof Royal Visit by Queen Elizabeth II

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In the winter of 1954, history was made when Queen Elizabeth II became the very first reigning British monarch to step foot on Australian soil. This monumental occasion, which commenced on February 3, 1954, is commemorated on a remarkably rare gold proof coin issued by Niue in 2019. Struck from one troy ounce of highly pure 0.9999 fine gold, this 100 Dollar denomination piece is limited to a mintage of just 150 pieces worldwide. The obverse of this modern gold coin features the familiar right-facing portrait of Queen Elizabeth II, designed by Ian Rank-Broadley as indicated by the subtle initials on the surface. The inscriptions surrounding the portrait confirm the issuing nation of Niue, the face value of 100 Dollars, the year 2019, and the weight and purity of the precious metal. The reverse design is an intricate, symbolic tribute to the 65th anniversary of that historic 1954 journey. It depicts a young Queen Elizabeth II adorned in the Imperial State Crown. Flanking her are a lion and a kangaroo, representing Great Britain and Australia, facing one another while holding their respective national flags. An ornate border frames the entire scene, which also includes a smaller depiction of the Imperial State Crown. Adding to the uniqueness of this issue, a genuine diamond is set directly into the lower crown motif on the reverse, making it a spectacular fusion of fine metalwork and gemstone artistry.