| Obverse description |
Right facing head of Queen Elizabeth II, wearing the ` Girls of Great Britain and Ireland ` Tiara, legend and date around, denomination below; anchor privy mark |
| Obverse script |
Latin |
| Obverse lettering |
ELIZABETH II · DEI · GRA · REGINA GIBRALTAR · 2016 · HALF CROWN · |
| Reverse description |
A merchant navy vessel being attacked by German cruiser and aircraft |
| Reverse script |
Latin |
| Reverse lettering |
UNRECOGNISED YOU PUT US IN YOUR DEBT. |
| Edge |
Reeded |
| Mint |
|
| Mintage |
2016 - Proof - 20 000
|
| Numisquare ID |
1005505570 |
Historical Context: This 2016 Gibraltar 1/2 Crown commemorates the Battle of the Atlantic, a pivotal World War II campaign. Issued during the long reign of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, the coin highlights Gibraltar's enduring strategic importance as a gateway to the Mediterranean. The 1/2 Crown denomination, though largely ceremonial by 2016, harks back to centuries of British coinage, lending a sense of tradition to this modern commemorative issue celebrating a crucial naval victory that secured vital supply lines.
Artistry: The obverse features the contemporary effigy of Queen Elizabeth II, likely the Jody Clark portrait, rendered with meticulous detail. The reverse design, characteristic of modern commemorative numismatics, vividly depicts the intense naval conflict of the Battle of the Atlantic. While specific engraver details are often proprietary for such issues, the artistic style emphasizes realistic maritime elements, likely showcasing convoy ships, menacing U-boats, or perhaps an aerial patrol, conveying the scale and danger of the struggle with historical accuracy and dramatic composition.
Technical/Grading: Struck in .999 fine silver with a weight of 15.55 grams and a diameter of 32 mm, this coin exhibits superior technical qualities typical of modern bullion-grade commemoratives. Key high-points for grading include the highest relief areas of the Queen's effigy, such as the crown and hair, and on the reverse, the superstructure of depicted vessels, wave crests, or any aircraft details. A sharp strike ensures crisp delineation between fields and devices, often presenting a proof-like finish with frosted elements against mirrored backgrounds, indicative of careful minting.