This 2015 $2 coin is the third release in the popular Ocean Predators coin series from the New Zealand Mint. Impactful design and stunning splash water effect: Your coin is packaged in a circular and water-filled coin case. Limited mintage of 2,000 coins. HST/GST exempt.

The Great Barracuda, sphyraena barracuda, is a predatory, ray-finned species of fish found all around the globe. Though predominantly located in surface water near harbours, estuaries and sheltered reef areas, the barracuda can also be found in the open sea.

Curious and fearsome-looking hunters, barracudas have a diurnal and solitary nature. They are distinguished by a torpedo-shaped, green-to-blue toned body that can grow up to 1.5 m (4.9 ft) in length and reach a weight of 23 kg (51 lb). The lower jaw juts out beyond the upper jaw, and is lined with razor sharp teeth. Large eyes are set into the barracuda's pointed head, combined with a strong tail fin, giving the fish a streamlined appearance, enabling it to reach speeds in excess of 43 km/h (27 mph).

This voracious predator will lie-in-wait for its prey, relying on surprise and short bursts of speed to make its kill. While attacks on humans are rare, barracuda's are scavengers, and have been known to mistake swimmers for predators, or light reflections off jewellery for prey.