The Government & Treasury of Niue have launched a new coin which is part of their on-going series entitled "Art that changed the world." This is a unique series presenting remarkable works of architecture of consecutive periods in art with the latest coin focusing on the Gothic style of architecture.

Gothic style originated approximately in 1120. In the early stages of its existence Gothic art developed in France. Later, around 1175, it continued to flourish in England. Gothic buildings are characterized by great lightness, numerous windows, usually stained-glass ones, soaring towers and lavishly ornamented portals. Other characteristic features of Gothic architecture include the use of pointed arches, cross-ribbed vaults and flying buttresses. The coin's theme takes its design from the Cathedral Church of the Blessed Virgin Mary of Lincoln, located in Lincoln, England and seat of the Bishop of Lincoln in the Church of England. Building commenced in 1088 and continued in several phases throughout the medieval period. At one time, it was reputedly the tallest building in the world for 238 years from approximately 1311 to 1549.

The coin, which is designed by Robert Kotowicz is produced by the Mint of Poland on behalf of the Government of Niue and includes an insert of genuine agate incorporated into the design. The reverse depicts the chancel of the Cathedral in precise and intricate detail. The tabernacle is decorated with the insert of green agate. In the lower part of the coin is the inscription "GOTHIC ART" which is the name of the coin series.

The obverse design features the main nave of the Cathedral Church of the Blessed Virgin Mary of Lincoln. The front part of the nave is embellished with the green agate insert. In the lower part of the coin is a miniature profile portrait of HM Queen Elizabeth II and inscriptions "2014" the year of issue along with "NIUE ISLAND" and "ELIZABETH II 1 DOLLAR" The Mint of Poland's mintmark is seen just to the lower left of the Queen's profile

To read the complete article, see:Niue "Art That Changed the World" Series Features Gothic Art(news.coinupdate.com/niue-art-that-changed-the-world-series-features-gothic-art-4434/)