ObverseImage: Wikimedia Commons · Royal Mint; Arnold Machin; James Berry; New Zealand Treasury · CC BY 4.0
New Zealand Two Cents
New Zealand
1967–1990
Reference data compiled from public catalogs
Specifications
| Country | New Zealand |
| Years Minted | 1967–1990 |
| Composition | Bronze (97% copper, 2.5% zinc, 0.5% tin) |
| Weight | 4.18 g |
| Diameter | 21.08 mm |
| Shape | Round |
| Edge | Plain |
Design
Obverse
Features the portrait of Queen Elizabeth II.
Reverse
Depicts a tuatara, a native New Zealand reptile, along with the denomination.
History & Notable Facts
The New Zealand two cents coin was the smallest denomination in the country's 1967 decimal switchover, quietly outlasting its siblings in circulation until 1990.
That longevity came from a simple bronze alloy, 97% copper and the rest tin and zinc, struck at foreign mints like Birmingham and Llantrisant when local facilities couldn't keep up. Its obverse bore Arnold Machin's portrait of Queen Elizabeth II, while the reverse showcased a kiwi by designer George James Berry—a nod to national identity without the usual fanfare.
Variations exist, though they're minor; some years show subtle die differences, and proofs were minted for collectors. Mintage figures vary by year, but exact numbers for certain issues remain unclear, lost in old records.
Edge lettering? None, just a plain rim to speed up production. As for myths about hidden treasures, I've handled thousands—it's just small change.
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