The legendary villain Darth Vader is more than just an icon of the Star Wars franchise. Ever since his first appearance in 1977, he has been one of the most recognizable antagonists in all of film. Cutting an intimidating figure in his black armor, announced by the menacing sound of mechanical breathing, wielding a lightsaber and the powers of the Dark Side of the Force with equal skill, he began as a symbol of the Galactic Empire’s ruthless evil and gradually grew into a figure of both tragedy and terror who would eventually find some measure of redemption. Casting a long shadow over popular culture and still riveting audiences in the 21st century, Vader is commemorated by the New Zealand Mint with the 2022 1 oz Silver Niue Star Wars Darth Vader Coin.