2015 Niue Ocean Predators - Giant Squid 1oz. Silver Coin (TAX Exempt)

2015 Niue Ocean Predators - Giant Squid 1 oz. Silver Coin minted by the New Zealand Mint (TAX Exempt)

Watch out for those massive tentacles reaching out and wrapping around this beautifully designed collectible coin with stunning splash water effect. The Ocean Predator - Giant Squid is the fourth release in this popular coin series.

The dramatic image of a Giant Squid is finely engraved on a 1 oz Silver Coin with tentacles out stretched to seize its prey, and set within a porthole border design. This beautifully designed coin is packaged in a cylindrical shaped water-filled coin case in keeping with the characteristics for this coin collection. When opened, the coin and Certificate of Authenticity are displayed. This coin has a limited mintage of 2,000 coins and is a must for coin collectors who want to add to their dynamic collection.

TECHNICAL Specifications:
Coin Metal: 999 Fine Silver
Coin Weight: 1 oz
Coin Finish: Proof/Coloured
Coin Diameter: 40 mm (Nominal)
Coin Edge: Milled
Coin Denomination: $2
Year of Issue: 2015
Coin Mintage: 2000
Effigy : Ian Rank-Broadley effigy of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II
Country of Issue : Niue

The Giant Squid remains a mystery to scientists despite being the largest invertebrate on Earth. This is due to its deep-sea habitat. Most Giant Squid will measure around 10 m (33 ft), and weigh approximately 200 kg (440 lb). Claims of specimen larger than 13 m (43 ft) have not been scientifically documented. Like other species, the Giant Squid has eight arms and two long tentacles, or clubs, that are used to bring food to their beak-like mouths. These are tipped with hundreds of sharp-toothed suckers and used like a net to capture prey.

Giant Squid have the largest eyes in the animal kingdom, measuring up to 25 cm (10 in) in diameter. These are used to aid hunting in the darkened depths of the ocean. To shift position, a Squid will draw water into its mantle before forcing it out behind, thereby propelling the animal forward. The tremendous size of the Squid leaves it with few predators. However, scientists have found beaks of Giant Squid, in the stomachs of Sperm Whales along with lacerations on their skin from battles held in the depths of the ocean.