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 minted. This coin features a distinctive “sandwich cookie” edge design with a ribbed center stripe and rivets, making it immediately recognizable to collectors. According to Krause catalogs, this coin exists in two primary varieties: KM#87 (bronze-coated aluminum-bronze regular issue) and KM#87.a (silver proof version with 10,000 minted). However, forum discussions suggest additional variations may exist, including reports of 40,000 aluminum-bronze coins in plush boxes and 14,500 in BU year sets.

Identifying Key Markers

Weight and Metal Composition

The 1993 New Zealand $2 coin is made from aluminum-bronze alloy, not bronze-coated aluminum as sometimes misreported. This alloy consists of 92% copper, 6% aluminum, and 2% nickel – the same composition used for Australian $1 and $2 coins. The alloy naturally has a golden-bronze color, though oxidation can create two-tone effects over time, particularly on high points and edges. This is a normal characteristic of aluminum-bronze coins and not evidence of plating or coating.

Magnetic Properties

Due to its copper content, the aluminum-bronze alloy used in this coin is non-magnetic. Any magnetic response would indicate a counterfeit made from different materials. Use a strong magnet to test suspect coins – genuine specimens should show no attraction.

Die Markers and Security Edge

The most distinctive feature of this coin is its security edge, which resembles a sandwich cookie with a ribbed center stripe and rivets. This design was originally implemented to prevent clipping and deter counterfeiting, though today it primarily serves to make the coin visually distinctive. Examine the edge carefully for consistent ribbing and proper rivet placement. Counterfeiters often struggle to replicate this complex edge design accurately.

Common Fakes and Authentication Methods

Several authentication points should be checked when examining a 1993 New Zealand $2 Kingfisher coin:

• Edge examination: The security edge should be perfectly consistent around the entire circumference with no gaps or irregularities.
• Surface details: The kingfisher design should show sharp, well-defined feathers and facial features. Machine doubling may be present but should be consistent with known die varieties.
• Color consistency: While oxidation can create two-tone effects, the base color should be uniform bronze-gold. Any silver-colored areas may indicate wear or improper alloy mixing.
• Weight verification: Compare the coin’s weight against known specifications for this denomination.

Testing Methods

For serious collectors, several testing methods can help authenticate these coins:

1. Use a digital scale accurate to 0.01 grams to verify weight
2. Perform a magnet test to confirm non-magnetic properties
3. Examine under magnification (10x loupe minimum) for die markers and surface details
4. Compare edge design with known genuine examples
5. Check for proper strike quality and detail definition

Value Guide

While forum discussions suggest these coins are “practically worthless” in general circulation, they hold significant value for specialized collectors due to their unique design and limited mintage. Current market values vary by condition and variety:

• Regular aluminum-bronze issues: $20-40 in uncirculated condition
• Silver proof versions: $50-200 depending on grade
• Proof sets containing the silver version: $150-200

Values can increase significantly for coins in gem condition or with rare die varieties. The security edge design and kingfisher motif make this coin particularly appealing to collectors of modern world coins and those specializing in New Zealand numismatics.

Conclusion

The 1993 New Zealand $2 Kingfisher coin represents an interesting chapter in modern coin design, combining practical security features with artistic elements. While not particularly valuable in terms of precious metal content, its unique characteristics make it a worthwhile addition to specialized collections. When authenticating these coins, focus on the distinctive security edge, proper alloy composition, and overall strike quality. With counterfeits becoming increasingly sophisticated, understanding these diagnostic points is essential for any collector considering adding this unusual coin to their collection.

Related Resources

You might also find these related articles helpful:

• How to Spot Rare Errors on One of the Strangest Modern Coins Yet Minted – Introduction Most collectors overlook the subtle details that can transform a common coin into a rare treasure worth tho…
• The 1993 New Zealand Kingfisher: A Security Edge Mystery – The Birth of a Modern Numismatic Curiosity Every relic tells a story. To understand this item, we have to look at the er…
• What is the Real Value of One of the Strangest Modern Coins Yet Minted in Today’s Market? – Historical Significance The 1993 New Zealand two-dollar coin featuring a kingfisher stands as one of the most unusual mo…