Introducing the 2018 Maui Trade Dollar

by | Dec 5, 2017 | 2018

Aloha from Maui!

Under a clear, blue Maui sky, our boat glides smoothly out of Maalaea Harbor. Everyone aboard, young and old, is collectively hoping for the same thing: to see humpback whales. Every November, these magnificent creatures travel 3,500 miles from Alaskan waters all the way to Hawaii to mate and give birth in our tropical waters. Lucky for us, Maui is one of their favorite spots. Hearing their songs under the water or seeing them breach off the coast is exciting every single time. The fact that we can count on the arrival of these amazing creatures year after year is also comforting.

Just like the whales, you can count on the arrival of this letter and a newly released Maui Trade Dollar. We’re still going strong after 27 years! The 2018 coin features none other than a humpback whale as well as another familiar scene, Black Rock in Kaanapali. The ancient Hawaiians called this area Pu’u Keka’a and chose it as the jumping off place to join the spirits of their ancestors. Nowadays, to honor this ancient ritual, a lone diver climbs the rock, lights the torch, and dives into the ocean every evening as the sun sets.

While it’s nice to celebrate time honored traditions, it’s also important to adapt and change. What started out as a trade dollar at participating merchants on Maui has evolved into a product that is a sought after collector’s item. You’ll notice the Maui Trade Dollar features a new design on the back to reflect the current status. Also, sharp eyes will notice the six stars located on the back. This indicates the 2018 coin is part of Series 6, our Heritage Series, featuring the natural landmarks of Maui.

2018 Maui Trade Dollar 3-coin set

2018 Maui Trade Dollar 3-coin set with Gold, Silver and Cupronickel

 

 

There are two ways to order Maui Trade Dollars:

1) Send in your order form through the mail.

P.O.Box212,Makawao,Hawaii96768

2) Order through our website

www.mauitradedollar.com

Humpback whale in Maui

Humpback Whale off the coast of Maui

 

Humpback whale in Maui

Humpback whale off the coast of Lahaina, Maui.

On that beautiful fall morning, we did see several humpback whales breaching, slapping pectoral fins, and even following the bow of the boat. Everyone aboard was filled with awe and love for these amazing animals. We hope you love this year’s design as much as we do, and continue to collect Maui Trade Dollars for yourself and your friends and loved ones for years to come. We couldn’t do this without you!

 

Mahalo nui loa,

Samantha Carbajal
Director, Maui Trade Dollar Association
PO BOX 212
Makawao, HI 96768

 

Go to mauitradedollar.com and order today. They make perfect gifts!