The government and treasury of the British Virgin Islands have issued (6th February) a new crown coin which highlights the territory’s unique wildlife inhabiting these islands who make this warm Caribbean spot their home. Well-known creatures such as the iguana, the flamingo, and the brown pelican feature prominently in the design.
The British Virgin Islands, located in the Caribbean Sea are part of the Virgin Islands archipelago, along with the United States Virgin Islands. The main islands in the territory are Tortola, Anegada, Virgin Gorda, and Jost Van Dyk — although there are a total of around 60 islands in the territory. The islanders on the British Virgin Islands are considered British citizens and have been ruled by the British monarchy since Tortola was captured from the Dutch in 1672. The British Virgin Islands are home to many spectacular creatures that thrive in the temperate and warm climate, especially iguanas, who can be found basking in the sun across the islands — affording the perfect photo opportunity for tourists. Natives and visitors alike will also be welcomed by colonies of pink flamingos wading in the shallow waters on Anegada. Also prevalent on the Virgin Islands are brown pelicans and their magnificent two-metre-plus (over six feet) wingspan.
The coin is produced by the Pobjoy Mint on behalf of the treasury of the British Virgin Islands. The reverse side of the coin includes depictions of an iguana, a flamingo, a brown pelican, and some crustaceans superimposed over the map of the archipelago.
The obverse features an effigy of HM Queen Elizabeth II, which is an exclusive design of the Pobjoy Mint.
Denom. |
Metal |
Weight | Diameter | Quality |
Maximum Mintage |
$1 |
Cupro-nickel |
28.2 g | 38.6 mm | Brilliant Unc. |
10,000 |
$10 |
.925 Silver |
28.2 g | 38.6 mm | Proof |
2,000 |
The new collector’s coin is struck in both cupro-nickel (Brilliant Uncirculated) and sterling silver (Proof) versions, which are encapsulated and presented in custom cases along with certificates of authenticity. The cupro-nickel coin is housed in a soft-material pouch. For additional information on these coins and others issued from the treasury of the British Virgin Islands, please visit the website of the Pobjoy Mint.
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