Obverse. Photo © NumisCorner.com
  • 2 Dollars 1990-1998, KM# 79, New Zealand, Elizabeth II
  • 2 Dollars 1990-1998, KM# 79, New Zealand, Elizabeth II
Description

1997 circulation issues recalled, many remained in circulation.

Obverse

Third crowned portrait of HM Queen Elizabeth II facing right, wearing the George IV State Diadem.

The George IV State Diadem, officially the Diamond Diadem, is a type of crown that was made in 1820 for King George IV. The diadem is worn by queens and queens consort in procession to coronations and State Openings of Parliament. The piece of jewellery has been featured in paintings and on stamps and currency. It can be seen in the Queen's Gallery at Buckingham Palace.

Engraver: Raphael David Maklouf

ELIZABETH II NEW ZEALAND
RDM
1996

Reverse

Kotuku (great egret), surrounded by a Maori motif, denomination below.

The eastern great egret (Ardea alba modesta), a white heron in the genus Ardea, is usually considered a subspecies of the great egret (A. alba). It was first described by British ornithologist John Edward Gray in 1831.

In New Zealand, where it is known by its Māori name kōtuku, the eastern great egret is highly endangered, with only one breeding site at Okarito Lagoon. It shares this site with the Kōtuku ngutupapa, or Royal spoonbill.

Engraver: Robert Maurice Conly

TWO DOLLARS

Edge

2 Dollars

3rd portrait
KM# 79 Schön# 75
Characteristics
Material Aluminium Bronze
Weight 10 g
Diameter 26.5 mm
Thickness 2.7 mm
Shape round
Alignment Medal

Related coins

4th portrait

Aluminium Bronze, 10 g, ⌀ 26.5 mm