Tonga 1981 FAO Commemorative Cupronickel Coin
Coin/Bullion · Government of Tonga / Royal Mint
Pattern: FAO (Food and Agriculture Organization) Commemorative Series
Type
Coin/Bullion
Maker
Government of Tonga / Royal Mint
Material
Cupronickel (copper-nickel alloy, typically 75% copper and 25% nickel), not precious silver despite appearance
Dimensions
Standard commemorative coin dimensions (approximately 28-30mm diameter for Tongan decagonal coins)
Description
An interesting ten-sided circulating commemorative coin issued by the Kingdom of Tonga in 1981 in collaboration with the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO). Featuring distinct island iconography and agricultural motifs, this piece is frequently mistaken for silver due to its bright cupronickel sheen.
Key Features
Distinctive decagonal (ten-sided) geometry, official FAO collaborative issue, clearly stamped 1981 date and Tongan legend
Material & Composition
Cupronickel (copper-nickel alloy, typically 75% copper and 25% nickel), not precious silver despite appearance
Finish & Decoration
Standard circulation strike with milled edges and raised lettering/motifs depicting agricultural themes
Hallmarks & Stamps
Inscribed with the text 'TONGA 1981' and 'FAO', along with denomination markings typical of Tongan coinage
Construction Details
Machine-minted, die-struck cupronickel blank
Functional Features
Legal tender commemorative coin with distinctive decagonal (ten-sided) shape for easy tactile identification
Handle & Grip Details
N/A
Craftsmanship Details
Precision industrial die-striking with clean geometric edges and sharply defined lettering
Authentication Indicators
Correct weight, dimensions, and composition for a Tongan cupronickel coin; lacks precious metal hallmarks because it is base metal
Origin & Manufacturing
Kingdom of Tonga (minted internationally for the Tongan government, often by the Royal Mint or similar sovereign mint facilities)
Era & Period
Late 20th Century (1981)
Age Estimate
Dated 1981
Cultural Significance
Represents international cooperation through the FAO to raise awareness for global food security and agricultural development
Condition Notes
Very good circulation condition with minor surface scuffs and standard wear consistent with handling
Value Estimate
Low numismatic value, typically ranging from $2 to $10 USD depending on exact condition and collector demand
Care & Maintenance
Standard base-metal coin care: store in a dry environment in a protective coin flip or capsule to prevent further oxidation
Similar Pieces
Other Pacific island FAO commemorative coins from the 1970s and 1980s, such as issues from Western Samoa or Fiji
Interesting Facts
Tonga is famous in numismatic circles for issuing uniquely shaped coins, including rectangular, heart-shaped, and decagonal commemorative pieces