New Zealand: Annual Coin – Pouakai Haast's Eagle Gold-Plated 2 oz Silver 2025 Black Proof

Issued in 2025, this silver commemorative coin honours the impressive Haast’s eagle (Harpagornis moorei, pouākai) – the largest and most powerful known bird of prey in history. This prehistoric hunter, once inhabiting New Zealand, weighed up to 17.8 kg and had a wingspan of up to 3 metres. Its primary prey were flightless birds such as moa, but it also hunted other species including kererū, ducks and swans. The coin is a tribute to this extraordinary creature and the natural heritage of the Māori people.

Struck from 2 ounces of pure 999 silver, the coin features a black proof finish with gilded elements and a zircon embedded in the eagle’s eye in the background. The mintage is strictly limited to only 400 pieces worldwide. The design was created by Māori artist Dave Burke from Tauranga, depicting a dynamic scene – an eagle hunting from the air against the backdrop of the Canterbury region where the species’ remains were discovered.

Obverse features the portrait of King Charles III designed by Dan Thorne.

Reverse shows two Haast’s eagles – one close-up with a sparkling zircon in the eye, and another in a dynamic hunting pose. The composition is enhanced with gilding and a detailed New Zealand landscape. The reverse also features the species name in both English and Māori. Design by Dave Burke.