One of the largest circulating coins ever: Tonga’s 2 pa’anga — 44.5 mm round with annually changing FAO reverses, from the 1981 issue.
History
- The 2 pa’anga was introduced in 1967 alongside the seniti, struck in small numbers (notes covered the value).
- In 1979 the 1 pa’anga went rectangular; the round 44.5 mm 2 pa’anga is attested for 1981.
- Reverses were changed annually to commemorate FAO (Food and Agriculture Organization) goals and events.
- The big coins failed against the 1 and 2 pa’anga notes; production ended in the 1980s, though they remain legal tender.
Key dates & varieties
- The annual FAO reverses are the variety hunt — each year brought a new design.
Specifications
- 44.5 mm diameter — among the largest coins ever issued for circulation.
Collector notes
- Size is the draw: at 44.5 mm it dwarfs a Morgan dollar.
- Assemble the annual FAO reverse run — that’s the completable set inside this type.