2024 Samoa $50 1/2 oz Gold Light of Liberty Van Niekerk/Mercanti Design Ultra High Relief NGC Enhanced Reverse PF70 First Day of Issue Van Niekerk Signed Torch Label Black Core
The 2024 Light of Liberty, designed by acclaimed South African engraver Natanya Van Niekerk, is the second issue in the Light of Liberty Trilogy. The series reimagines Lady Liberty through the eyes of international master engravers. This coin showcases Van Niekerk's unique perspective on Lady Liberty. Complemented by an obverse designed by legendary U.S. Mint Chief Engraver John Mercanti, this coin offers a fresh and captivating approach to this American icon.
Coin Design
Obverse - The obverse features a bald eagle designed by former Chief Engraver of the U.S. Mint and legendary artist John Mercanti. With its wings outstretched, the highly detailed bird embodies liberty and freedom as it soars high above the rugged terrain as a radiant sun peaks over the horizon. The design also features the coat of arms of the island nation of Samoa.
Reverse - The reverse features Natanya Van Niekerk's interpretation of Lady Liberty as a powerful figure striding confidently along a riverbank, holding a radiant torch in one hand. Behind her are the "Big Five" animals of Africa, symbolizing strength and resilience.
Dual Ultra High Relief
This coin is meticulously crafted in Dual Ultra-High Relief, a technique that brings remarkable depth to both the obverse and reverse designs. The raised portions of the coin bring to life the incredible detail, and the added dimension creates a visually striking piece.
Enhanced Reverse Proof Finish
The Enhanced Reverse Proof finish features a selective arrangement of polished, satin, and high frost finishes to create a striking contrast across the design—unlike a standard reverse proof finish, which simply frosts the raised elements.
Limited Mintage
This release is highly exclusive, with only 399 coins available worldwide.
First Day of Issue
Each coin is certified by NGC as First Day of Issue and graded by ENHANCED REV PF 70, ensuring it is in perfect condition. Each coin is also encapsulated with NGC's exclusive Light of Liberty label, hand-signed by Natanya Van Niekerk—the coin's reverse designer. The 2024 $50 1/2 oz Gold Light of Liberty coins designed by Van Niekerk have a population of only 65 coins in this pedigree (*As of 08/29/24).
Light of Liberty Series
The Light of Liberty series reimagines Lady Liberty through the work of top engravers from around the world. The series began with Susan Taylor's design, followed by Natanya Van Niekerk, and will conclude with Jody Clark's creation for the third and final design. Each coin in the series shows a new version of the American icon created by an artist from outside the United States, along with an obverse design by John Mercanti. This series honors the universal ideal of liberty and freedom, highlighting the talents of some of the world's best coin designers.
