The sixth issue in the “Numismatic Icons” series is adorned with a beautiful Lion, which stands for the animal of the Greek God Apollo. Apollo was not only the god of the arts, healing and light, but also the patron god of the colonies. The majestic lion stands for strength, protection and divine guidance.
The coin also speaks of the importance of Leontini as an agricultural center and the colony’s close connection to Apollo.
The Lion as a symbol of the god emphasizes the divine patronage over the colony, while the grain of barley points to the prosperity and fertility of the region. The CI numerals follow the tradition of ancient Greek coinage to indicate the respective place of origin.
The CI characters on the reverse adhere to the tradition of ancient Greek coinage to indicate the respective place of origin.
Cook Islands now transfers this iconic symbol onto a modern 1 ounce silver coin. Utilizing enhanced Smartminting® technology it combines the ancient design e.g. the uneven rim with a stunning ultra high relief. The fine details are further enhanced with a fantastic application of antique finish.