10 November 2023
|
The 'Peaks' series of coins continues with a remarkable piece dedicated to K2, the world's second highest mountain.
K2, the monumental 3rd mountain of the 'Peaks' series, proudly stands within the Karakorum Range as Earth’s 2nd highest peak, yielding only to the mighty Mt. Everest.
The mountain’s formidable presence was first unveiled to the world in 1856 by Colonel T.G. Montgomerie of the Survey of India. It owes its numerical name K2 to Montgomerie’s erroneous assumption that the peak was only the second highest within the Karakoram range.
In the annals of mountaineering history, the first bold attempt to climb K2 took place in 1902. To their misfortune, without success. However, in 1954, an Italian expedition, defying ferocious weather, saw the triumph of Achille Compagnoni and Lino Lacedelli, as they reached the summit via the Abruzzi Ridge on 31 July.
Yet, K2 remains an enigma, shrouded in perilous storms that thwart many from reaching the top. Only the toughest alpinists dare to climb one of the world’s most challenging mountains.
K2 coin details
- Country: Cook Islands
- Year: 2024
- Face: Value 10 Dollars
- Metal: Silver .9999
- Weight: 2 oz
- Size: 38.61 mm
- Quality: Proof
- Mintage: 999
- Technique: smartminting® (Ultra High Relief)