Cook Islands: Legends of the Seas – Santa Maria Colorized 1 oz Silver 2026 Proof

Cook Islands: Legends of the Seas – Santa Maria Colorized 1 oz Silver 2026 Proof is the first coin launching the prestigious Legends of the Seas series, dedicated to the most famous ships in history and their captains, who entered history through their voyages. This issue commemorates the Santa Maria—the ship on which Christopher Columbus crossed the Atlantic Ocean in 1492, ushering in the Age of Discovery.

The coin has been struck from one ounce of .9999 fine silver in high-quality Proof, featuring a colorized design and ultra-high relief. Its diameter is 38.61 mm, and the denomination is 5 Cook Islands dollars. A limited mintage of only 999 pieces makes this issue particularly attractive to both collectors and enthusiasts of maritime history.

Thanks to advanced smartminting® technology, the majestic three-masted ship appears to rise from the surface of the coin, showcasing wind-filled sails, foaming waves, and realistically rendered hull details. Intense colorization emphasizes the scene’s dynamism and enhances the sense of depth, conveying the drama of the historic journey.

Obverse presents a view from the Santa Maria onto the open sea, creating a perspective similar to what Columbus might have seen. At the center of the design is a circular ship’s wheel incorporating the effigy of King Charles III, the face value, and the name of the issuing country.

Reverse depicts the Santa Maria under full sail, rendered in striking ultra-high relief. Beside the ship is an image of Christopher Columbus, highlighting the historical significance of the expedition. The composition is completed by the inscription SANTA MARIA, which serves as the coin’s central identifying element.