The 2015 New Zealand Annual Coin tells the story of one of New Zealand’s most treasured extinct birds – the huia. Thought to be extinct 110 years ago. There have been sightings near Dannevirke in 1921, in the Manawatu Gorge in 1947, in the Uruweras in 1961 and in the Souther Ruahine Range in 1975.

The 1oz silver proof coin has been designed by renowned Maori artist, Dave Burke and depicts the female huia sitting on a branch in three-dimensional relief. The manaia patterns in the background are symbolic of a mythical bird-like figure that is the messenger between the earthly and spiritual realms and the koru represent growth and reaching toward the light.

This legal tender coin is the only $5 silver proof commemorative coin to be issued annually and each coin includes an individually numbered certificate containing further information about the huia. With a mintage of just 1,500 worldwide, you’ll want to get your order in early for this unique coin.

Denomination: Five New Zealand dollar Finish: Proof Composition: 0.999 silver Weight: 1 troy oz Diameter: 40mm Edge treatment: Milled Obverse design: Portrait of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II by Ian Rank-Broadley, United Kingdom Reverse design: Huia with koru and manaia patterns in the background Mint: Royal Dutch Mint Worldwide mintage: 1,500