Can One of the Strangest Modern Coins Yet Minted Be Made Into Jewelry? A Crafter’s Guide

Introduction: The Curious Case of the 1993 New Zealand Two Dollar Coin

As a coin ring artisan, I’m always on the lookout for unique pieces that can be transformed into wearable art. When I first encountered the 1993 New Zealand two dollar coin, I was immediately intrigued by its unusual design and composition. This commemorative piece, featuring the kingfisher bird, presents both opportunities and challenges for jewelry crafting.

Metal Composition: The Foundation of Durability

Understanding the metal composition is crucial for any jewelry crafter. The 1993 New Zealand two dollar coin comes in two primary varieties:

• KM#87: Bronze-coated aluminum (regular issue)
• KM#87a: Silver proof (limited mintage of 10,000)

The bronze-coated aluminum version is actually made from an aluminum-bronze alloy, not a coated coin as some might assume. This alloy consists of approximately 92% copper, 6% aluminum, and 2% nickel – the same composition used in Australian $1 and $2 coins.

Aluminum-Bronze: Properties for Jewelry Making

Aluminum-bronze offers several advantages for coin ring crafting:

Aluminum bronze is a high-strength, corrosion-resistant copper alloy that provides excellent durability while maintaining a beautiful golden color that doesn’t tarnish as readily as regular brass.

This alloy’s properties make it particularly suitable for:

• Ring making due to its malleability when heated
• Long-term wear resistance
• Maintaining color stability over time

The Silver Proof Version: Premium Crafting Material

For those seeking a more premium option, the silver proof version (KM#87a) presents an excellent choice. With only 10,000 minted, this version offers:

• Higher intrinsic value due to silver content
• Superior detail and finish quality
• Greater potential for high-end jewelry pieces

Design Details: Aesthetic Appeal for Jewelry

The Kingfisher Motif

The reverse features a beautifully detailed kingfisher, making it an excellent choice for nature-inspired jewelry. The intricate feather details and dynamic pose of the bird create visual interest when transformed into a ring band.

The Queen’s Portrait

The obverse features Queen Elizabeth II’s portrait, adding a touch of regal elegance to any piece. The profile view works particularly well when wrapped around a finger, creating a unique conversation piece.

Security Edge: A Unique Feature

The most distinctive feature of this coin is its security edge – a ribbed center stripe with rivets. This unusual edge detail can add significant visual interest to a coin ring, creating texture and depth that sets it apart from standard reeded-edge coins.

Working with the Security Edge

When crafting with this coin, the security edge presents both opportunities and challenges:

• The ribbed center can create interesting patterns when the coin is stretched
• The rivets may become more pronounced, adding texture
• Special care must be taken to preserve this unique feature during the folding process

Color Variations and Patina

One interesting characteristic noted by collectors is the two-tone appearance some coins develop. This oxidation pattern can create beautiful highlights and depth in finished jewelry pieces.

Natural Patina Development

• Bronze areas may develop a rich, warm patina
• High points might show lighter coloration
• This natural variation can enhance the artistic appeal of finished pieces

Crafting Considerations

Hardness and Workability

Aluminum-bronze offers a good balance of hardness and workability:

• Hard enough to hold shape well in finished jewelry
• Soft enough to work with standard coin ring tools
• Responds well to annealing, making it easier to shape

Size and Proportions

The two dollar denomination provides an ideal size for ring making:

• Large enough to create substantial bands
• Proportions work well for various ring sizes
• Thickness provides structural integrity

Market Availability and Pricing

For crafters looking to source these coins:

• Bronze-coated aluminum versions typically range from $15-30
• Silver proof versions can cost $50-200 depending on condition
• Proof sets containing the silver version may cost around $200

Conclusion: A Unique Crafting Opportunity

The 1993 New Zealand two dollar coin offers coin ring artisans a unique opportunity to work with a distinctive piece that combines unusual design elements with practical crafting properties. Whether working with the more common aluminum-bronze version or the premium silver proof, this coin provides:

• Excellent durability for everyday wear
• Unique aesthetic features that stand out
• A fascinating conversation piece with historical significance
• Good availability at reasonable prices

For those looking to create truly distinctive coin ring jewelry, this unusual commemorative piece deserves serious consideration. Its combination of interesting design, suitable metal composition, and unique edge detail makes it a standout choice for crafters seeking to create memorable, high-quality pieces.

Related Resources

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