1/2 Cent - Elizabeth II 1st portrait

Đơn vị phát hành Eastern Caribbean States
Năm 1955-1958
Loại Standard circulation coin
Mệnh giá 1/2 Cent (0.005 BWI$)
Tiền tệ British West Indies dollar (1935-1965)
Chất liệu Bronze (95.5% Copper, 3% Tin, 1.5% Zinc)
Trọng lượng 2.83 g
Đường kính 20.4 mm
Độ dày 1.25 mm
Hình dạng Round
Kỹ thuật Milled
Hướng Medal alignment ↑↑
Nghệ nhân khắc Obverse: Cecil Thomas
Reverse: Thomas Humphrey Paget
Lưu hành đến 1 August 1968
Tài liệu tham khảo KM#1, Schön#1
Mô tả mặt trước Portrait of Queen Elizabeth II facing right.
Chữ viết mặt trước Latin
Chữ khắc mặt trước QUEEN ELIZABETH THE SECOND
Mô tả mặt sau Denomination above date.
Chữ viết mặt sau Latin
Chữ khắc mặt sau BRITISH CARIBBEAN TERRITORIES 1 _ 2 CENT 1958 ·EASTERN GROUP·
Cạnh Plain
Xưởng đúc
Số lượng đúc 1955 - - 500 000
1955 - Proof - 2 000
1958 - - 200 000
1958 - Proof - 20
ID Numisquare 1370195480
Thông tin bổ sung

Historical Context: This 1/2 Cent coin, issued by the Eastern Caribbean States between 1955 and 1958, marks a significant numismatic transition during the early reign of Queen Elizabeth II. Bearing her first definitive portrait, it represents the evolving identity of the British Caribbean Territories towards a more unified monetary system under the Eastern Caribbean Currency Board. This period was characterized by the gradual move away from direct colonial administration, with the smallest denomination reflecting the continued economic structure of the region.

Artistry: The obverse features the iconic uncrowned effigy of Queen Elizabeth II, a masterpiece by British sculptor Mary Gillick. Her distinctive "Young Head" portrait, characterized by its classicism and youthful elegance, became a hallmark of early Elizabethan coinage. The reverse design, typical of the Eastern Caribbean issues, presents the denomination "1/2 CENT" and the date, likely within a simple, functional layout, embodying a straightforward and legible numismatic aesthetic appropriate for a small fractional currency.

Technical/Grading: Struck in bronze (95.5% Copper, 3% Tin, 1.5% Zinc), this 2.83-gram, 20.4-millimeter coin typically exhibits good strike quality for its composition. Key high-points for grading the obverse include the Queen's hair above her ear and the highest points of her cheek and jawline. On the reverse, the raised elements of the numerals and any surrounding design, such as a wreath, are crucial for assessing wear. Bronze coins of this type often develop attractive patinas, but can also show surface spotting if improperly stored.

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