1997 KING KALAKAUA HALF OUNCE PLATINUM PUELA

1997 was indeed the Mint’s platinum year when it issued the Royal Hawaiian Platinum Puela Set named in honor of the Puela. The Puela is the center most element of the Royal Crest of the Kingdom of Hawaii, which is the central most element of the Kingdom’s Royal Coat of Arms. The Puela occupies the important central position because the “Puela” was the pennant that flew from the top of the reigning Chief or King’s outrigger as a symbol of authority. As such the Puela is a highly revered symbol of the Kingdom of Hawaii and a fitting name for the Royal Hawaiian Platinum Set. Then as BVNH was concluding the most demanding minting of his 25 year career as Mintmaster, he noticed that a few extra half ounce planchets had not been minted. Quickly, he re-polished the dies, set up the press and minted the last few remaining planchets. Today, those 1997 Half Ounce Platinum Puelas with King Kalakaua are the last specimens from the Royal Hawaiian Puela Platinum Set. First time sold as a single coin.