The Haast’s eagle (Harpagornis moorei, pouākai) is the largest, most powerful species of its kind ever to have existed. It had an impressive 2-3 metre wingspan and weighed up to 17.8 kilograms, and its talons could be as long as a modern-day tiger’s. This formidable predator’s main source of prey was South Island moa, but it is also believed to have eaten kererū, ducks, swans, geese and rails. It is thought that the Haast’s eagle would perch in the forest waiting for suitable prey to appear before swooping down with incredible force.

Highlights

• 2oz silver proof coin featuring the pouākai/Haast’s eagle
• Black proof finish with gold plating and zirconia gem in the eye
• Each coin is minted from 2oz of 0.999 silver
• Designed by Dave Burke, Tauranga, New Zealand
• Low worldwide limited mintage of 400.

Design

Designed by Māori artist Dave Burke, this coin depicts a close-up of the Haast’s eagle in the background, with the impressive bird swooping down to catch its prey in the foreground. With a black proof finish, the coin features gold-plated eagles, with a zirconia gem on the eye of the eagle in the background. The landscape illustration depicts Canterbury, where remains of Haast’s eagles have been found. The rim of the coin features both the Māori and English names.