2020 Solomon Islands 5 oz. Pure Silver Coin Discovery of the New World 1000 Years after Leif Eriksson. This beautiful coin has gone through a long and sophisticated process to reach its stunning appearance. The journey starts in the oceans of Australia, Tahiti, Fiji, Indonesia and the Philippines, where the Pinctada Maxima has found its perfect and isolated environment. The Pinctada Maxima is the largest natural grown pearl oyster with a diameter of up to 30cm. They have a very strong inner shell layer composed of nacre, also known as the “mother of pearl”. It takes up to 12 weeks to select the most beautiful mother of pearl shells for our series. Afterwards the shells for our coins are sized to the right shape and the stunning design accrues through ultrasonic waves, which takes up to 5 weeks. To create the individual colouring, the shells are laying in a bath of the respective colour for another 5 weeks. The mother of pearl inlay is integrated into the coin by a complex technical process. Commemorating the discovery of the American continent through Leif Eriksson, the son of the famous Viking “Erik, The Red”! Comes in original case with certificate. Please note that the above images are stock photos, your coin will be in similar condition. Citadel Coins Halifax, Nova Scotia Official Royal Canadian Mint Distributor.