2018 - Niue 1 NZD Set of two Silver Coins Golden Rose from the Pope - Proof

The golden rose is a unique sanctified jewel made of pure gold, which is awarded by Pope as a special decoration and expression of the Holy See's favor. A pair of silver coins embellished with selective gilding reminds us of two such roses that we find in the Czech Republic.

At present, especially unique religious places are awarded golden roses. This is the case of the Velehrad Basilica, which is the famous pilgrimage site and part of the ancient Cistercian monastery, whose importance was raised by Pope John Paul II. Only six other basilicas around the world can boast the golden rose. In the past, however, extremely pious people have been gifted with golden roses. According to some sources, this tradition can be traced back to the times of Charles the Great at the turn of the 8th and 9th centuries. The Austrian Empress Marie Anna Savojska, wife of Ferdinand I the Good was awarded the golden rose a thousand years later in the 19th century. The couple had a warm relationship with the Czech lands, especially with Prague, and the Empress sent her rose to the Cathedral of St. Vitus at Prague Castle in 1874. The unique Empire jewel is still part of the St. Vitus Treasure.

A medal maker Maria Filova DiS., the author of the commemorative set, dedicated the reverse sides of the coins to two monks. The front views of the Velehrad Basilica and the St. Vitus Cathedral are complemented by papal roses that are in their possession. The roses are distinguished from the rest of the relief by attractive selective plating with pure gold. The obverse sides also belong to the necessary requirements of the island of Niue, which provides the Czech Mint with license to process its own commemorative coins. These are the profile and the name of Queen Elizabeth II, the year of the issue 2018 and the nominal value of 1 DOLLAR (NZD). The composition of the obverse sides is complemented by decorative elements characteristic of both religious buildings.

The set is stored in a luxurious wooden etui along with an illustrated certificate of authenticity.