The Science Explained series enters 2026 with its third release, honoring Alexander Fleming, the pioneering Scottish physician and microbiologist whose discovery of penicillin changed medicine forever. This first issue of the series for 2026 transforms one of the most important breakthroughs in medical history into a striking numismatic tribute, combining Fleming’s portrait with laboratory imagery, the molecular structure of penicillin, and symbols of modern medicine.
Struck from 1 oz of .999 pure silver and measuring 40 mm, the coin is issued as 2 Dollars legal tender by Niue and finished in high quality proof. Limited to only 199 pieces worldwide, each coin is presented in a premium blister pack with a certificate of authenticity explaining Fleming’s discovery and its importance. A meaningful collectible for science enthusiasts, medical professionals, and anyone graduating in medicine or related studies.
Science Explained continues to celebrate the discoveries that transformed our understanding of the world, one breakthrough at a time.
Coin description
The obverse features the official Coat of Arms of Niue at the center, surrounded by an intricate field of mathematical formulas, scientific diagrams, and geometric illustrations. The schoolboard inspired composition reflects the foundations of scientific learning and discovery. The inscriptions include “NIUE ISLAND”, “2026”, “2 DOLLARS”, and “1 OZ .999 FINE SILVER”.
The reverse features a detailed portrait of Alexander Fleming, accompanied by his name and life dates, 1881 to 1955. Around him appear laboratory instruments associated with microbiology and medical research, including a microscope, laboratory glassware, a Petri dish, and capsules. The molecular structure of penicillin is shown prominently within the composition, connecting Fleming directly to the discovery that transformed the treatment of bacterial infections. Medical symbolism and scientific imagery complete the design.
Background information
Alexander Fleming was born in Scotland in 1881 and became one of the most influential figures in the history of medicine. While studying bacteria at St Mary’s Hospital in London, he noticed in 1928 that a Penicillium mold had contaminated one of his culture plates and prevented bacteria from growing around it. Fleming recognized the importance of the phenomenon and named the antibacterial substance penicillin.
The discovery eventually led to the development of the first widely effective antibiotic treatment. Scientists Howard Florey and Ernst Boris Chain later helped turn penicillin into a medicine that could be produced on a large scale. Its introduction transformed the treatment of bacterial infections and saved countless lives, particularly during and after the Second World War. Fleming, Florey, and Chain received the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine in 1945 for their work on penicillin.
Key selling points
- Third Science Explained release
- First series issue of 2026
- Ideal medical graduation gift
- Special scientific micro engraving
- Limited to only 199 pieces
Image gallery
Find below a gallery of all images & video available for this product. Please contact us if you require more material as we might have more available for marketing purposes. Download image library.
Specifications
| Article ID | NU2603 |
| Country | Niue |
| Year | 2026 |
| Face Value | 2 Dollars |
| Metal | Silver |
| Weight | 1 oz (31.1 g) |
| Fineness | .999 |
| Diameter | 40 mm |
| Quality | Proof |
| Mintage | 199 pcs. |
| Scope of Delivery | Capsule, Certificate of Authenticity, Blister pack |
| Special Features | Classic Style |
| Availability | Announced Available |
All coins in the Science Explained series
Find here a list of coins issued in the same series.
