The Hammerhead Shark is from the family Sphyrnidae, named forthe unusual and distinctive structure of its head, which is flattened and laterally extended into a hammer shape called a cephalofoil. This has a variety of functions including sensory perception, manoeuvring, and prey manipulation.

Hammerheads are fierce predators found in tropical and sub-tropical waters around the globe. They swim in schools during theday, but become solitary hunters at night. The nineknown species range from 1 through to 6 meters (3 to 20 feet) in length and weigh from 3 to 450 kilograms (6.6 to 1,000 pounds). Hammerheads are usually a light greenish grey, with white bellies allowing them to blend in with the ocean and sneak up on prey. Their eyes positioned on the sides of their distinctive head give this species the ability to see above and below at all times.

The great and smooth hammerhead species are known to be dangerous to humans; however, in recent years, overfishing and the collecting of shark fins has put a number of hammerhead species at risk of extinction.

Second release in the popular Ocean Predators coin series from the New Zealand Mint.

Design:
Your coin depicts a finely engraved hammerhead shark swimming through a porthole-inspired border design. The shark is set against a proof and high quality colour printed background, featuring a school of otherhammerheads.

Packaging:
Your coin is packaged in a circular and water-filled coin case, characteristic for this coin collection. When opened, the coin and certificate of authenticity are displayed.
 

OCEAN PREDATORS - HAMMERHEAD SHARK - 2013 NEW ZEALAND MINT COINS 02 is categorised COINS AND PAPER MONEY / 12- NEW ZEALAND MINT / 01- FINE SILVER COINS and sold by l'Imaginaire, a store and specialised website.