Tangaroa - Guardian of the Ocean - Proof 2021 Gold Coin Set

Tangaroa: Guardian of the Ocean - 2021

An exclusive set issued by the Bank of New Zealand in 2021 consisting of two 1/2 Oz gold coins minted in 99.99% gold purity in a premium proof grade is released as part of a series dedicated to the Maori deity, the atua. The first set of coins features Tangaroa, the divine protector of the ocean.

The reverse side of the first coin depicts the rising waves that surround Tangaroa, referring to his ability to control the tides and the strength and power of the guardian of the seas and waterways. The tiny silhouettes of sea creatures represent the many stories, traditions and lineage of Tangaroa.
The reverse of the second coin depicts a tohorā, the whale whose form Tangaroa took in some legends, among the waves. The whale is considered the protector of sailors. Orally passed down Maori stories describe how whales accompanied canoes heading to New Zealand with the first inhabitants.
The background on both coins is a puhoro motif. The design, which in Maori culture symbolises speed and agility, incorporates the effect of the breaking and rippling of the water as the canoes travel - waka. The pūhoro design is also often used to traditionally decorate waka bows.
The description of the coins includes the name 'TANGAROA - GUARDIAN OF THE OCEAN' and the denomination in English and Maori 'TEN DOLLARS' and 'TEKAU TARA'.
Tangaroa is the creator and god of the water realm in Maori mythology. He rules the seas, lakes, rivers and also water creatures. He controls the tides. He is the son of the first divine couple Ranginui and Papatūānuku (father Sky and mother Earth). His children are a number of sea creatures including the ancestor of fish and the ancestor of reptiles.
Legend tells of how he was attacked by his brother and ruler of weather and storms, Tāwhirimāteam. Tangaroa found shelter with the fish in the sea. The reptiles, on the other hand, took refuge in the forests. Thus began a feud with his other brother, Tan Mahuta, who rules the forests, birds and humans. Therefore, when people go to sea, they enter the enemy's realm and sacrifices must be made to Tangara.

The obverse of both coins bears a portrait of Queen Elizabeth II by Ian Rank-Broadley, the inscriptions "NEW ZEALAND", "ELIZABETH II", the year of issue "2021" and the fineness and weight information.

The coins come in a luxury gift box. Each set includes an original certificate of authenticity. The set was issued in a very limited edition of only 150 pieces for the entire world!