Silver Coin 2 Oz Temple of Heaven in Beijing Ultra High Relief 2023 Antique Standard

Beijing - Temple of Heaven - Ultra High Relief - 2 oz

This unique silver coin, issued by the Cook Islands State for 2023, is minted in the finest 99.9% pure silver and weighs 2 Oz (62.2 g) with an Antique Standard finish. Using ultra-high relief on both sides, the coin features the Temple of Heaven in Beijing.

The reverse of the coin uniquely depicts the Temple of Heaven in Beijing, China. The flat bottom edge of the coin highlights the marble stone base from which the 3 levels of the temple, made entirely of wood, rise. Using Smartminting technology, ultra-high relief is achieved, refined in remarkable detail. It plastically renders the different levels and roofs of the temple, on which the reflections of the sun can be seen. The background of the coin depicts the rays of fireworks. The rim of the coin states the name of the coin in English "BEIJING - TEMPLE OF HEAVEN" and in Chinese characters, with the year of issue at the bottom.
The Temple of Heaven is a complex of Taoist temples in the Tongcheng district of Beijing's historic district. Its origins date back to the early 15th century. It is considered the greatest achievement of traditional Chinese architecture. The most famous building in the temple complex is the Hall of Prayers for Good Harvest, where Chinese emperors of the Ming and Qing dynasties prayed. The various parts of the palace are made of wood without the use of nails. It is now one of Beijing's most sought-after landmarks, along with the Forbidden City, and has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1998.

The face of the coin, using Smartminting technology in ultra-high relief, depicts the same precise workmanship on the back of the palace, from behind which the Chinese dragon looks out. It includes a coin portrait of Elizabeth II with the inscriptions "ELIZABETH II", "COOK ISLANDS" and the face value "10 DOLLARS".

The coin comes in a presentation frame with a certificate of authenticity, in a limited edition of only 1,888 pieces for the whole world!

Smartminting® is a revolutionary technology in the field of modern numismatics. The greatest advantage is the dramatic and unsurpassed heights of relief combined with intricate detail. High and ultra-high relief is possible on both sides of the coin, and the top of the relief can be placed as close to the edge as possible. However, the conventional embossing process not only requires more material (higher weight), but more importantly, the highest point must be concentrated in the center of the coin, which does not reach the same height as with Smartminting® technology. Another bonus of Smartminting® technology is the possibility of minting even in the highest Proof quality for coloured coins and, of course, the Antique Standard finish remains.

This product is part of the following product sets: