Cook Islands Astrolabe Named 2023-dated Best Crown
The Cook Islands Astrolabe Historic Instruments coin was named Best Crown Coin for the Coin of the Year (COTY) awards for 2023-dated coins. The coin celebrates one of the most widely used instruments in ancient times.
The astrolabe was used as early as 6th century AD to map out the stars and track time. Because it could be used to determine one’s latitude, sailors later used the device to navigate by the stars. Astrolabes also held religious and spiritual significance. In the Middle East, they were used to find the direction of Mecca. In medieval Europe, astrolabes were used to guide decisions based on constellations in the night sky and a person’s zodiac sign.
Astrolabes’ unique blend of science and myth are reflected in Cook Island’s award-winning coin, which was minted by CIT in ultra-high relief using its smartminting technology.
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 the lettering “HISTORIC INSTRUMENTS.” To the right of the coin is a small effigy of Elizabeth II. The design, which is based on Rank-Broadley’s sculpture of the Queen, has the queen facing to the right and wearing a tiara on her head. The lettering “ELIZABETH II” is to the left of her image, while “COOK ISLANDS” is to the right. Below the effigy is the lettering “10 DOLLARS.”
The reverse of the coin features a replica of the astrolabe. Arabic characters encircle the coin. The lettering “ASTROLABE” is included in a circle of the rete. At the very bottom of the coin is the year “2023.”
The Astrolabe coin measures 45 mm in diameter and weigh 2 ounces. Mintage is limited to 1,500 pieces.