This listing is for the photographed 2021 redesigned 3 Dollar Cook Islands Note. Crisp, Uncirculated grade/ condition. This is a redesign of a similar 1987 three dollar Cook Islands note that depicts the legend of Ina and the Shark. The note was redesigned in 2021 to celebrate the 56th annual Cook Islands constitution day. The obverse of this note displays the Polynesian legend of Ina and the Shark, and the reverse depicts a Pukapukan fishing canoe and a Te-Rongo statue. This note's colorful design and interesting history makes it an excellent addition to any collection!
The legend of Ina and the Shark is a fascinating tale told widely in Polynesian culture. The tale tells of Ina and her love Tinirau, who lived on a floating island far from Inas home. Ina wanted to see Tinirau, but the only way to do so was to travel the dangerous sea. She tried seeking help from the local sea animals, but none of them were strong enough to endure the travel. Eventually, a shark agreed to let Ina ride on his back and bring her to her love. Ina brought a bag of coconuts for the journey, but forgot a knife needed to open them. The shark allowed Ina to break open the coconut on his dorsal fin. After Ina had finished the coconut, she relieved herself on the sharks back without asking him, which made him furious, threatening to throw her in the ocean if she did it again. Many islanders blame this event for the urine-like taste of shark meat. Ina once again got thirsty, but the shark refused to let her break another coconut on his fin. Ina did not listen the shark and broke the coconut on his head instead. Islanders say that this event created the Hammerhead sharks head shape. The shark threw Ina off his back from the pain and dove down into the sea, leaving Ina stranded in the fierce ocean. Tekea the Great, king of the sharks, took pity on Ina and rescued her, delivering her safely to Tinirau.
This fascinating tale gives great insight into Polynesian culture, giving this note more value. This along with the note's great condition and wonderful design makes it a must have for any collection!
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2021 Cook Islands Redesign 3 Dollar Note- Legend of Ina Issue - Celebratory Redesign Note - 2021 Three Dollar Cook Islands Shark Note