1981 - First Space Shuttle Silver Proof 'Orbital' Coin
As NASA’s first re-useable launch vehicle, Columbia heralded the start of a new era in space exploration. The revolutionary craft took off from Kennedy Space Center, Florida, on 12 April 1981, with Commander John W. Young and Pilot Robert L. Crippen at the controls. Completing 37 Earth orbits during its 1,074,567 mile flight, Columbia glided back to Earth and landed at Edwards Air Force Base, California on 14 April.
The certificate accompanies a special 'orbital' coin commemorating Columbia, the first Space Shuttle Orbiter to circle the Earth. Struck by The Perth Mint, the coin incorporates 1oz of 99.9% pure silver, and is issued as legal tender under the authority of the Government of the Cook Islands.
As NASA’s first re-useable launch vehicle, Columbia heralded the start of a new era in space exploration. NASA’s Space Shuttle fleet continues its busy flight program, routinely transporting people and equipment to the International Space Station, and deploying and repairing satellites.
The coin’s coloured reverse portrays a montage of images symbolizing a Space Shuttle launching into orbit. The design, which includes the border description 1981 - FIRST SPACE SHUTTLE, orbits around a coloured image of Earth.
The coin's obverse depicts the Raphael Maklouf effigy of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, the 2010 year-date and the monetary denomination surrounding another coloured image of Earth. |
Overview
Australia
