Solomon Islands 10 Cents: Elizabeth II 4th Portrait & the Sea Spirit Ngarieru

Solomon Islands 10 Cents
Elizabeth II 4th Portrait & the Sea Spirit Ngarieru
Introduction: A Tiny Coin with a Big Story
The Solomon Islands 10 Cents coin may seem small in size, but it carries a rich blend of cultural heritage, mythology, and modern minting tradition. Struck between 2012 and 2017, this coin brings together royal symbolism and ancient island legends in a truly captivating way.
The Issuer: A Pacific Nation with Deep Traditions
The coin belongs to the Solomon Islands, a nation known for its diverse tribal cultures, artistic styles, and ocean-centered mythology. Its currency often reflects these cultural identities, making each coin a miniature storyteller.
The Obverse Design: Queen Elizabeth II – 4th Portrait
The front of the coin features the fourth portrait of Queen Elizabeth II, a refined depiction of the monarch wearing a tiara. This portrait connects the Solomon Islands to its Commonwealth heritage and follows the standard adopted by many Pacific nations.
The Reverse Design: The Sea Spirit Ngarieru
The reverse captures the sea spirit Ngarieru (also known as Ngorieru), a significant mythological figure from Temotu Province in eastern Solomon Islands. This powerful sea entity divides the value “10 Cents,” becoming both a guardian and a symbol on the coin.
Mythological Roots: The Adaro Tradition
Ngarieru belongs to a category of mystical beings known as Adaro—merman-like spirits believed to rise from the oceans and travel along rainbows. These spirits appear in many Solomon Islands legends, bridging the world of humans and the supernatural.
Cultural Significance: More Than a Decorative Element
By showcasing Ngarieru, the coin pays homage to the spiritual beliefs of the eastern islands. It preserves indigenous storytelling in a modern medium, ensuring mythic traditions remain alive for future generations.
Technical Specifications: A Durable Modern Circulation Coin
Made of nickel-plated steel, the coin weighs 2.29 grams and measures 16.86 mm in diameter. Struck at the Royal Australian Mint, it carries a smooth edge and strong durability suitable for everyday use.
Mintage Details:Widely Circulated Yet Collectible
With nearly 24 million pieces minted in 2012 alone, the coin is common in circulation but still holds collector appeal due to its unique design and cultural theme.
Collector Interest: Why Numismatists Value It
Collectors appreciate this coin not for rarity, but for its storytelling quality. The blend of royal imagery and island mythology makes it a desirable piece for thematic collections such as Pacific cultures, folklore coins, or Elizabeth II series.
Conclusion: A Coin That Captures a Culture
The Solomon Islands 10 Cents piece stands as a small yet powerful cultural ambassador. Through Ngarieru’s presence, it transforms everyday currency into a vessel of history, mythology, and identity — a reminder of the stories carried across the Pacific for generations.
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