Tonga 1967 hau
This specimen was lot 3796 in Sincona sale 43 (Zürich, October 2017), where it sold for 1,700 CHF (about US$2,029 including buyer's fees). The catalog description[1] noted,
"TONGA, Taufa'ahau Topou IV. 1965-2005 Hau 1967. Auf seine Krönung. Ausgabe in Palladium mit Randschrift. HISTORICALLY THE FIRST PALLADIUM COINAGE. Selten. Nur 1500 Exemplare geprägt. FDC. (kingdom of Tonga, Taufa'ahau Topou IV. 1965-2005, one hau of 1967, on his coronation, palladium. Rare. Only 1500 pieces struck, Uncirculated.)"
A half hau (KM 23) and quarter hau (KM 21) were also struck on this occasion. Despite vigorous promotional efforts, palladium coinage has never become popular; the dull luster of the metal makes it look like the much cheaper nickel.
Recorded mintage: 1,500.
Specification: 64 g, .980 fine palladium, 2 oz APW, this specimen 64.00 g.
Catalog reference: KM 25.
- [1]Richter, Jürg, Sincona sale 43, Gold and Silver Coins and Medals, Zürich: Sincona AG, 2017.
- Michael, Thomas, and Tracy L. Schmidt, Standard Catalog of World Coins, 1901-2000, 47th ed., Iola, WI: Krause Publications, 2019.
Link to:
- Tonga 1975 5 seniti
- Coins and currency dated 1967
- return to coins of Tonga