HAMMERHEAD SHARK Ocean Predators Silver Coin 1 Oz 2$ Niue 2013
 
Coin Story
The Hammerhead Shark is from the family Sphyrnidae, named for the unusual and distinctive structure of their heads, which are flattened and laterally extended into a ‘hammer’ shape called a ‘cephalofoil’. This has a variety of functions including sensory perception, manoeuvring, and prey manipulation. Hammerheads are fierce predators found in tropical and sub-tropical waters around the globe. They swim in schools during the day, but become solitary hunters at night. The 9 known species, range from 1 through to 6 meters (3 to 20 feet) in length and weigh from 3 to 450 kilograms (6.6 to 1,000 pounds). Hammerheads are usually a light greenish grey with white bellies allowing them to blend in with the ocean and sneak up on prey. Their eyes positioned on the sides of their distinctive head, give this species the ability to see above and below at all times. Great and Smooth Hammerhead species are known to be dangerous to humans, however, in recent years overfishing and the collecting of shark fins has put a number of Hammerhead species at risk of extinction.
 
Design
Reverse Design:
This depicts a finely engraved Hammerhead Shark swimming through a porthole-inspired border design. The Shark is set against a proof and high quality colour printed background, featuring a school of other Hammerheads.
Obverse Design:
This features the Ian Rank-Broadley effigy of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II.
 
Packaging
The Hammerhead Shark 1 oz 999 Fine Silver coin is delivered inside a circular packaging featuring a waterfilled coin case. The outer packaging is themed to resemble the leathery skin of a shark.
When opened, the coin and Certificate of Authenticity are displayed.