Obverse: Features a portrait of Queen Elizabeth II wearing a tiara, designed by Ian Rank-Broadley. The inscriptions “COOK ISLANDS” and the face value “5 DOLLARS” appear above, with “ELIZABETH II” below.
Reverse: A cross decorated with five red crystals is depicted on the left, while the gilded coat of arms of Pope Benedict XVI appears on the right. The inscription “BENEDICTUS XVI” is shown above, with “ANNUS SECUNDUS” and the year “2006” below.
About the coin: This unusual hexagonal commemorative coin was issued in 2006 and is dedicated to the second year of the pontificate of Pope Benedict XVI, as indicated by the Latin inscription “ANNUS SECUNDUS”. The coin is struck from .925 fine silver, weighs 25 g, measures 35 mm in diameter and has a Proof finish. Its design is distinguished by the gilded papal coat of arms and five red crystals. The mintage is 5,000 pieces.
