Obverse. Photo © NumisCorner.com
  • 10 Cents 1988, KM# 27, Solomon Islands, Elizabeth II
  • 10 Cents 1988, KM# 27, Solomon Islands, Elizabeth II
Description

The Solomon Islands comprise a double chain of seven large and more than thirty small islands, located just east of New Guinea. The islands were named in 1568 by the Spanish navigator Alvaro de Mendaña, who claimed that he had found the riches of King Solomon, or the biblical land of gold. Solomon Islands is a constitutional monarchy with the Queen of Solomon Islands, currently Queen Elizabeth II, as its head of state.

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 SOLOMON ISLANDS
RDM
1988

Reverse

Depicts Ngorieru (right) dividing value.

Ngorieru (also known as Ngarieru) is the principal deity of Ngorism, practised by the Adaro of the Solomon Islands. He usually appears as a humanoid covered in coral and fish. It is normally hostile towards humans and is known to wield a bow and arrow from which it shoots arrows capable of causing supernatural sicknesses. However, when it is represented as a wooden carving on the boats and buildings of natives of the Solomon Islands, it acts as a powerful protective effigy.

Ngorieru is the ruler of the Oceans. He is said to be the strongest Adaro that have ever lived and rides upon a massive seahorse. He fights storms, and when he has defeated a storm, he releases a rainbow as a battle flag to show victory.

Adaro often pray to Ngorieru for support in life and sacrifices food to him. It is said that Ngorieru's favourite food is a fox, and that is, therefore, the ultimate sacrifice. During the Season of the Hunt, which occurs in the spring, feasts are held in his honour. These feasts usually include dancing and singing.

Engraver: David Thomas

10
CENTS

Edge

10 Cents

3rd portrait, Non-magnetic
KM# 27 Schön# 28
Characteristics
Material Cupronickel
Weight 5.65 g
Diameter 23.6 mm
Thickness -
Shape round
Alignment Medal
Mint
Royal Mint

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