We knew New Zealand was a fun place, but now you can buy things with Star Wars-themed money? That’s just too much fun for anyone. But it’s absolutely true: 40 coins will be issued by the New Zealand Mint that will feature not only Queen Elizabeth II, but also our favorite characters from Star Wars. Those coins, which each contain 1 oz. of silver, will be worth £1 each (or NZ$2, or $1.63 US) and will be sold in sets of four. (So actually, don’t spend them.)
But even if you wanted to spend your collectible coins, you’ll have to travel all the way to the Polynesian island of Niue (population 1,400) to get them. The coins are being used as a way to boost its government, which is struggling financially, and are expected to attract not just die-hard coin collectors — who will pay top dollar for them — but also, obviously, Star Wars fans. The high-end set, the one that contains the coins with 1 oz. of silver, will sell for £235 (NZ$469, $382.60), but a set with silver-plated coins will cost less. They are expected to be released through 2014.
According to Chris Kirkness of the New Zealand Mint, collectible Star Wars coins are pretty much a no-brainer and pretty much sell themselves: “You know Star Wars if you’re seven or 70.”
Even on an obscure island state of less than 1,500 people, people cannot get enough of Star Wars. Made its way into the hearts and minds of the tiniest corners of the world, it did.
(The Telegraph via Boing Boing)
Published: Aug 13, 2011 12:55 pm