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Inventory:
1 In Stock
- Product ID: 53359
Checkout
| Metal/Chg | Bid | Ask |
|---|---|---|
| Updated: 11/23/24 07:18:01 | ||
Gold
 45.57
|
$2,714.41 | $2,728.15 |
The Cook Islands $250 Gold One Ounce 1996 Olympic Park Proof coin is a stunning piece that commemorates the Centennial Olympic Games held in Atlanta, Georgia, in 1996. This coin not only celebrates the global spirit of the Olympics but also showcases the Cook Islands' tradition of producing high-quality, collectible gold coins. Struck in one ounce of .999 fine gold, the coin is a brilliant proof (PF) issue, which means it has a mirror-like finish and exhibits the finest quality of craftsmanship. Collectors and investors alike prize this coin for its artistic design, connection to Olympic history, and its inherent value as a piece of gold bullion.
The history behind the 1996 Cook Islands $250 Gold Olympic Park coin is tied to the Centennial Olympic Games, which marked the 100th anniversary of the modern Olympic Games, first held in Athens, Greece, in 1896. The 1996 Games in Atlanta were a significant event, symbolizing a century of global unity, athletic excellence, and peaceful competition. Nations from around the world participated in this grand event, which made the commemorative coin series honoring these games particularly desirable. The Cook Islands, known for issuing a wide variety of collectible coins, joined the international effort to celebrate this milestone by producing this exquisite gold coin. The coin’s design reflects the Olympic theme while also connecting it to the cultural and artistic heritage of the Cook Islands.
The obverse of the 1996 Cook Islands $250 Gold One Ounce coin features the right-facing portrait of Queen Elizabeth II, as is customary on most Cook Islands coinage. The portrait was designed by Ian Rank-Broadley and depicts the Queen in a dignified pose, wearing a diadem. Surrounding the portrait are the inscriptions "ELIZABETH II," "COOK ISLANDS," and the face value of "250 DOLLARS." The year "1996" is also inscribed, marking the coin's issue date in honor of the Atlanta Olympic Games. The obverse design is simple and elegant, providing a sharp contrast to the intricate Olympic-themed reverse, and reflects the Cook Islands' status as a member of the Commonwealth, with Queen Elizabeth II as its head of state.
The reverse of the 1996 Cook Islands $250 Gold One Ounce coin is where the Olympic theme takes center stage. The design features a detailed depiction of Olympic Park in Atlanta, the heart of the 1996 Summer Olympics. Olympic Park served as a central hub for the games, hosting key events and providing a gathering place for athletes, fans, and spectators from around the world. The reverse design captures the grandeur of the park, with architectural elements and symbols associated with the Olympics, including the iconic Olympic rings. The rings, representing the unity of the five inhabited continents, are prominently displayed on the coin, reinforcing the Olympic ideals of peace and international cooperation through sport.
The reverse also includes inscriptions highlighting the weight, purity, and metal content of the coin: "1 OZ .999 GOLD." This information assures collectors and investors of the coin’s precious metal content and high level of purity, making it an appealing addition to any gold portfolio. The proof finish of the coin further enhances the reverse’s intricate details, with its frosted designs set against a mirror-like background. The craftsmanship displayed on the reverse makes the coin not only a valuable piece of gold but also a work of art that captures the spirit of the 1996 Olympics.
The Cook Islands has a long tradition of minting high-quality commemorative coins, and the 1996 $250 Gold Olympic Park coin is no exception. The coin was produced in limited quantities, making it highly sought after by collectors. Its limited mintage adds to its rarity and exclusivity, increasing its value over time. Collectors of Olympic memorabilia and gold coin investors alike appreciate the scarcity of this coin, as it represents both a celebration of a historic event and a secure investment in gold. The Cook Islands’ dedication to producing beautiful, high-purity gold coins ensures that this piece is a desirable addition to any serious collection.
The one-ounce gold coin’s value lies not only in its gold content but also in its connection to a significant moment in global sports history. The Centennial Olympic Games were a monumental celebration of athleticism and international unity, and the Cook Islands’ commemorative coin immortalizes that moment in gold. For those who appreciate both numismatic history and precious metals, the 1996 Cook Islands $250 Gold One Ounce Olympic Park Proof coin is a rare and valuable find.
With its combination of historical significance, artistic design, and high-purity gold content, the 1996 Cook Islands $250 Gold One Ounce Olympic Park Proof coin holds a special place in the world of commemorative gold coins. It is a piece that speaks to both collectors’ passion for rare Olympic-themed coins and investors’ desire for valuable gold assets. The coin’s limited mintage, connection to the Centennial Olympic Games, and exquisite proof finish ensure that it will continue to be a prized item for many years to come.