1 Cent - Elizabeth II 2nd portrait

Issuer Bermuda
Year 1970-1985
Type Standard circulation coin
Value 1 Cent
Currency Dollar (1970-date)
Composition Bronze (97% copper; 2,5% zinc; 0,5% tin)
Weight 3.11 g
Diameter 19.05 mm
Thickness 1.24 mm
Shape Round
Technique Milled
Orientation Medal alignment ↑↑
Engraver(s) Obverse: Arnold Machin
Reverse: Michael Rizzello
In circulation to
Reference(s) KM#15, Schön#15
Obverse description Young bust of Queen Elizabeth II facing right.
Obverse script Latin
Obverse lettering BERMUDA ELIZABETH II
Reverse description Wild boar left
Reverse script Latin
Reverse lettering ONE CENT 1978
Edge Plain
Mint
Mintage 1970 - - 5 500 000
1970 - Proof - 11 000
1971 - - 4 256 000
1973 - - 2 144 000
1974 - - 856 000
1975 - - 1 000 000
1976 - - 1 000 000
1977 - - 2 000 000
1978 - - 3 160 000
1980 - - 3 520 000
1981 - - 3 200 000
1982 - - 320 000
1983 - - 800 000
1983 - Proof - 6 474
1984 - - 800 000
1985 - - 800 000
Numisquare ID 6520891140
Additional information

Historical Context: The Bermuda 1 Cent coin, featuring Elizabeth II's second portrait, was issued from 1970 to 1985. This period marked Bermuda’s decimalization in 1970, transitioning from the Bermudian pound to the Bermudian dollar. The coin underscored Bermuda's enduring status as a British Overseas Territory while asserting its distinct economic identity. Elizabeth II's effigy on this bronze denomination symbolized sovereign connection during significant local monetary shifts.

Artistry: The obverse features the iconic second effigy of Queen Elizabeth II, designed by Arnold Machin, a celebrated British sculptor. This portrait, known for its dignified realism, depicts the Queen facing right, adorned with the Girls of Great Britain and Ireland Tiara. The reverse design showcases a hogfish, a distinctive local marine species. This naturalistic depiction integrates Bermuda's unique biodiversity into its national currency, reflecting the island's strong connection to its marine environment.

Technical/Grading: Struck in bronze (97% copper, 2.5% zinc, 0.5% tin), this 3.11-gram, 19.05 mm diameter coin has a plain edge. For grading, key high points on the obverse include the Queen's hair above her ear and the tiara. On the reverse, critical wear areas are the hogfish's fins, eye, and scale texture. While generally well-struck, minor planchet flaws or strike weakness can occur on finer details, impacting higher uncirculated grades.

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