2008 Sir Edmund Hillary - A Lifetime of Achievement

"In some ways I believe I epitomise the average New Zealander: I have modest abilities, I combine these with a good deal of determination, and I rather like to succeed."

The extraordinary accomplishments of iconic New Zealander Sir Edmund Hillary are being commemorated in these limited edition coins issued by New Zealand Post with the exclusive support of Lady June Hillary.

The pure silver coins, bearing the legend 'A Lifetime of Achievement', depict Sir Edmund against a backdrop of the world’s highest peak, Mt Everest, which he successfully reached at the age of 33 with Sherpa Tenzing Norgay 55 years ago on 29 May 1953.

While he shot to International fame following his Everest accomplishment, he is equally renowned for his subsequent achievements in mountaineering and Antarctic expeditions, his devotion to the Nepalese people through his founding of the Himalayan Trust and his support of the great outdoors.

In 1992 Sir Edmund became the only living New Zealander to appear on a banknote and it is fitting that, following his passing on 11 January this year, he should also become the first to appear on a commemorative coin. 

 The larger diameter (40.6 millimetres) silver coin is 0.999% pure silver proof and weighs an ounce.  It has a legal tender denomination of $1.
 
The obverse side of both of the coins feature a portrait of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II by Ian Rank-Broadley, of England.
 
The coins are offered in a classic navy leatherette presentation case and are accompanied by a numbered authentication booklet, including a mini biography of Sir Edmund.

Sir Edmund Hillary Silver Proof Coin
Denomination: $1.00
Finish and Composition: Fine silver 99.9%
Weight:  1 oz
Diameter: 40.6mm
Edge Treatment: Milled
Obverse Design : Portrait of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II by Ian Rank-Broadley, England
Reverse Design: Sir Edmund Hillary against a backdrop of Mt Everest
Worldwide Mintage Limit: 10,000 however minted just 6,500