Finding One of the Strangest Modern Coins Yet Minted in the Wild: A Cherry Picker’s Guide

Introduction: The Thrill of the Hunt

You don’t always need a dealer to find this. Here is what to look for when searching through circulation or bulk lots.

Every roll hunter dreams of that one-in-a-million find that makes all the searching worthwhile. For me, that moment came when I stumbled upon what many collectors consider one of the strangest modern coins yet minted: the 1993 New Zealand two dollar coin featuring the kingfisher. This isn’t your typical circulation find, but it’s exactly the kind of numismatic oddity that makes roll hunting and cherry picking so rewarding.

What Makes This Coin So Unusual?

At first glance, this coin looks like a standard circulation piece. But upon closer inspection, several unusual features jump out:

• A distinctive “security edge” with a center stripe and rivets
• Color variations that suggest improper coating or oxidation
• Potential doubling around the lettering
• An overall design that seems almost experimental

The Security Edge Mystery

The most striking feature is undoubtedly the edge. Unlike typical reeded edges, this coin features what’s called a “security edge” – a ribbed center stripe with rivets along it. These edges were originally designed to prevent clipping and counterfeiting, though today they serve more as a distinctive visual marker.

According to numismatic experts, these security edges are common in certain coin series, particularly from Hong Kong and India. They add both visual interest and a tactile element that makes the coin immediately recognizable.

Understanding the Composition

There’s been considerable debate about what this coin is actually made of. Initial reports suggested it might be “bronze coated aluminum,” but further research indicates it’s actually aluminum-bronze – a solid alloy of copper and aluminum.

The alloy composition is typically 92% copper, 6% aluminum, and 2% nickel – the same used for Australian $1 and $2 coins. This creates that distinctive golden color that’s become popular for modern coinage.

The Color Variation Puzzle

One of the most intriguing aspects is the color variation visible on many examples. The center of the coin often appears whitened or lighter than the surrounding areas, particularly along high points like the Queen’s portrait and the bird’s details.

While some collectors initially thought this might be due to improper coating, experts confirm these coins are solid alloy throughout – no plating or coating involved. The color variation is likely due to oxidation patterns or perhaps variations in the alloy mixture during minting.

Varieties to Look For

Based on Krause’s catalog and collector reports, there appear to be at least two main varieties:

1. KM#87: The standard aluminum-bronze circulation issue
2. KM#87a: A silver proof version with a mintage of approximately 10,000

However, some collectors believe there may be additional varieties, particularly given the color variations and potential doubling observed on many specimens.

The Doubling Mystery

Several collectors have reported what appears to be significant doubling around the lettering on the coin’s obverse. This doubling is visible with magnification and appears consistent around the entire legend.

The question remains whether this is machine doubling (common and generally not valuable) or true doubled die variety (rare and potentially valuable). Without expert examination, it’s difficult to determine which type of doubling is present.

Where to Find These Coins

While this isn’t a coin you’ll likely find in everyday circulation, there are several hunting grounds for collectors:

Circulation Finds

Though rare, some examples have been found in circulation, particularly in New Zealand and other Pacific regions. Keep an eye out for that distinctive edge pattern and golden color.

Bulk Lots and Estate Sales

This is where your best chances lie. Foreign coin lots, especially those containing New Zealand coins, often contain these pieces. Estate sales with international collections are particularly promising.

Online Marketplaces

Several examples are currently available on eBay and other platforms, typically priced between $30-50 for circulated examples in decent condition. Silver proofs in higher grades command premium prices.

Authentication Tips

When examining potential specimens, look for these key markers:

• The distinctive security edge with center stripe and rivets
• Correct diameter and weight for the denomination
• Proper kingfisher design on the reverse
• Queen Elizabeth II portrait on the obverse

Red Flags

Be wary of:

• Coins lacking the security edge feature
• Incorrect weight or diameter
• Poor quality reproductions (though these are rare)

Current Market Values

While this coin isn’t particularly valuable in terms of silver content or rarity, it does have collector interest due to its unusual features:

• Circulated aluminum-bronze examples: $20-40
• Silver proof examples: $50-200 depending on grade
• Proof sets containing the coin: $150-300

Values can vary significantly based on condition, with gem specimens commanding premiums.

Historical Context

This coin was minted in 1993 by the Royal Mint in London for New Zealand. While some sources suggest it may have been a commemorative issue, it appears to be more of a standard circulation coin featuring New Zealand’s native bird species.

New Zealand has a tradition of featuring native birds on its coinage, and the kingfisher was chosen for this particular design. The coin’s unusual features may reflect experimental minting techniques or simply the Royal Mint’s willingness to try something different.

Collecting Strategy

For collectors interested in this series, consider these approaches:

1. Focus on acquiring one example of each known variety
2. Seek out high-grade specimens for display
3. Look for coins with interesting color patterns or doubling
4. Consider building a type set of New Zealand $2 coins

Storage and Preservation

These coins, like many modern issues, can develop interesting toning patterns over time. Some collectors appreciate these natural developments, while others prefer to maintain original surfaces. Store in appropriate holders away from extreme humidity.

Conclusion: Why This Coin Matters

While the 1993 New Zealand two dollar kingfisher coin may not be the most valuable or rarest piece in a collection, it represents exactly what makes coin collecting fascinating: the stories, the mysteries, and the occasional oddity that defies easy categorization.

For roll hunters and cherry pickers, this coin serves as a reminder that valuable finds can come in unexpected forms. Sometimes the most interesting pieces aren’t the ones with the highest catalog values, but rather those that tell a unique story or showcase unusual minting techniques.

Whether you’re a specialist in New Zealand coinage, a general world coin collector, or simply someone who appreciates numismatic oddities, this coin deserves a place in the conversation about unusual modern issues. And who knows? The next time you’re sorting through a bulk lot or estate sale find, you might just discover one of these distinctive pieces waiting to tell its story.

Happy hunting!

Related Resources

You might also find these related articles helpful:

• Preserving the Unique 1993 New Zealand $2 Coin: A Conservationist’s Guide – Historical Significance As a conservationist, I’ve witnessed far too many valuable pieces ruined by improper clean…
• Grading the New Zealand 1993 Kingfisher $2: Why That ‘Security Edge’ Matters – Condition is everything. Here’s how to examine the high points and fields to determine the true grade of this dist…
• Is Your 1993 New Zealand $2 Kingfisher Coin Real? How to Spot a Fake – Historical Significance The 1993 New Zealand $2 Kingfisher coin stands out as one of the most unusual modern coins ever …