2026 Manuka Beetle 2oz Silver Proof Coin - Silver Coin

Aotearoa New Zealand is known to be home to more than 5,000 beetle species, most of which are endemic. It's estimated that the real number of local beetle species could be up to 10,000. The mānuka beetle (Pyronota festiva), known by Māori as kerewai, is an endemic scarab beetle. It is closely related to other beetles in the Scarabaeidae family that are found in other parts of the world.

Highlights

2oz silver proof coin featuring the mānuka beetle Each coin is minted from 2oz of 0.999 silver Stunning proof finish and high-relief beetle Presented in a display case with a perspex window Designed by Fuller Design, Wellington, New Zealand Very low worldwide limited mintage of 400.

Design

This insect is common and widespread across New Zealand. Between 3mm and 25mm in length, its wings are a vibrant, glossy green with subtle areas of blue and yellow. Māori used them in traditional medicines to reduce fevers and stomach aches. The Victorians were attached to the bright metallic green colour and used Mānuka beetles in jewellery.

Inspired by rectangular specimen displays, this 38mm x 55mm coin features a high-relief mānuka beetle finished with iridescent colour. The mirrored proof background complements the realistic, life-size rendering of the beetle. Below, the coin features beetle’s common name, and scientific name - Pyronota festiva. The obverse features the effigy of King Charles III.

This coin issue celebrates the beauty of the endemic mānuka beetle.