The New Zealand Mint's Tarot Major Arcana series (2021–)
For at least 600 years, a pack of cards called The Tarot, have been used to play games across parts of Europe, starting in Italy. However, starting in 18th century France, the cards captured the attention of occultists, and from there, the Tarot deck took on two distinct forms.
Today, most interest in the cards is centred around their occult use in divining the future. The deck in this case is made up of 78 cards. Of those, 56 are divided up into four suits, each composed of ten numbered cards, a King, a Queen, a Knight, and a Jack. These are the Minor Arcana. The other 22 cards do not have suits, and are called the Major Arcana, which are the subject of this coin series.
Launched in 2021, ‘The Tarot’ is a series of one-ounce, rectangular silver coins, each of which carries a coloured image of one of the Major Arcana cards, done in the classic style associated with a Tarot deck. Each of the cards has a distinct ‘flavour’ which the NZ Mint has captured very well, adding all the specific elements you would expect in each case. These are attractive coins with an interesting artistic style.
The obverse originally carried the effigy of Queen Elizabeth II, but changed in 2023 to the national coat-of-arms of Niue following her death. The book-style packaging is as excellent as you would expect from this mint, being solid, understated, and filled with information on the specific subject of the coin. The mintage is set at 2,000 units.
The Fool is a symbolic Tarot card representing new beginnings, spontaneity, and the journey into the unknown. Depicted as a carefree traveller about to step off a cliff, they carry a small bag, symbolising life’s experiences. The Fool embodies innocence, optimism, and an adventurous spirit, reminding us to embrace opportunities with a fresh perspective.
II: THE HIGH PRIESTESS
The High Priestess is a captivating tarot card, often associated with mystery and intuition. She embodies the essence of hidden knowledge and the subconscious mind. Seated between two pillars, she guards the veil of secrets, representing the duality of existence. The crescent moon at her feet symbolizes the ever-changing nature of life.
With a book in her lap, she signifies wisdom and learning, encouraging seekers to explore their inner depths. This card urges us to trust our intuition, tap into our inner wisdom, and navigate the uncharted waters of our subconscious. The High Priestess invites us to embrace the mysteries of life and delve into our own inner realms.
The 1 oz Silver Tarot Cards The High Priestess Coin is the third release in the Tarot Cards Coin Collection from the New Zealand Mint. This colorized, engraved, rectangular coin is a beautiful representation of The High Priestess Tarot card. In this interpretation she is a serene fortune teller seated at a table, holding Tarot cards in one hand and cradling a crystal ball with the other. She is surrounded by mystical objects and exudes the energy of someone who holds deep secrets and wisdom. This colorized image is framed by a striking engraved silver border. The High Priestess card is numbered Two in the emblematic Tarot cards known as the Major Arcana and encourages you to “listen to your intuition”.
Obverse Design
Reverse Design
Special Features