2023 Cook Islands Astrolabe 2 oz Silver Coin

Celebrating one of the most widely used instruments in ancient times, comes the 2023 Cook Islands Astrolabe 2 oz Silver Coin. The astrolabe was used as far back as 6th century AD. It was originally used to map out the stars and was used to reckon time. Later, it was used by sailors for navigating using the stars. This coin looks great in .999 fine silver with an antique finish. 

 

Key features:

• Made of 2 oz of .999 fine silver
• Antique finish
• Very limited mintage of 1500 available worldwide
• Face value of $10 backed by the Cook Islands government
• The obverse side of the coin has several historical instruments and a small effigy of Queen Elizabeth II
• The reverse side has a replica of the astrolabe

 

The astrolabe was an early scientific instrument devised in the 6th Century. This complex device was used to reckon time and navigate using the stars. Sailors later adopted the device so they could use the stars to navigate. This device is an important historical device as it is evidence of the kind of blend of mythology and science that was prevalent at this time in history.

 

The obverse side of the coin has several scientific instruments used throughout history including the hourglass, a sundial, and a telescope. At the top of the coin is ‘HISTORIC INSTRUMENTS’. To the right of the coin is a small effigy of Elizabeth II. This classic design based on Rank-Broadley’s sculpture of the queen has the queen facing to the right. She is wearing a tiara on her head. The design is super detailed and you can make out the curls on her head and the lines in her face. To the left of her image is ‘ELIZABETH II’. To the right of her is ‘COOK ISLANDS’. Below her is ‘10 DOLLARS’. 

 

On the reverse of the coin is a replica of the astrolabe.  There are many little runes around the coin. In the middle written on one of the parts is ‘ASTROLABE’. At the very bottom of the coin on the edge is ‘2023’. 

 

This 2023 Cook Islands Astrolabe 2 oz Silver Coin would look great in any collection. It would also make a great gift for someone who is a scientist or is into the history of science or maritime instruments. Get yours today.