Graded Coin Appraisal

2021 Niue $5 Chinese Heroes 'Liu Bei' Antiqued Silver Coin MS 70

This is a 2021 Niue $5 'Liu Bei' silver coin from the 'Chinese Heroes' series, graded as MS 70 ANTIQUED by NGC, an indication of its perfect mint state with an antiqued finish. The coin is encapsulated in a tamper-proof NGC slab, protecting it from environmental damage and handling. The obverse of the coin, visible in the image, features a dynamic depiction of Liu Bei, a prominent warlord from the late Eastern Han dynasty, in a combat stance, wielding a sword. He is surrounded by what appear to be mythical creatures, possibly dragons or serpents, rendered in intricate detail. The design exhibits a high level of relief, with various textures and depths that enhance the visual impact. The antiqued finish gives the coin a dark, aged appearance, which is further accentuated by selective colorization in shades of blue and green on the mythical creatures, adding a striking contrast and bringing out specific elements of the design. The craftsmanship is evident in the fine details of Liu Bei's armor, flowing hair, and facial expression. The coin's overall condition is pristine, as indicated by the MS 70 grade, meaning it has no post-production imperfections at 5x magnification. The protective slab bears the NGC logo and a 'seven k' branding, along with the coin's specific identification number '6552411-019', reinforcing its authenticity and grading status. The coin represents a fusion of historical and mythological themes, executed with modern minting techniques and a distinctive artistic treatment.