Obverse: the obverse of the coin features a right-facing portrait of Queen Elizabeth II. Surrounding the portrait are the inscriptions “ELIZABETH II”, “COOK ISLANDS”, and the face value “2 DOLLARS”. The portrait was created by renowned engraver Ian Rank-Broadley.
Reverse: the reverse depicts one of the earliest paper banknotes featuring Chinese characters and the inscription “INVENTION OF BANKNOTES”. The year “2015” appears below. The design symbolizes one of the most important inventions in financial history – the introduction of paper money in China.
About the coin: this 2015 Cook Islands silver coin-bar belongs to the “Milestones of Global Trade” series. The coin is struck from .999 fine silver and weighs 15.55 g. Its rectangular design resembles a small investment silver bar and stands out among traditional coin shapes. The theme of the invention of banknotes highlights the importance of the evolution of money in global trade and economy, making this coin appealing to both collectors and investors.
