Catalog
| Issuer | Seychelles |
|---|---|
| Year | 1972 |
| Type | Commemorative circulation coin |
| Value | 1 Cent (0.01 SCR) |
| Currency | Rupee (1914-date) |
| Composition | Aluminium-magnesium (96.9-96.1% Aluminium, 3.9-3.1% Magnesium) |
| Weight | 0.7 g |
| Diameter | 16 mm |
| Thickness | 1.4 mm |
| Shape | Round |
| Technique | Milled |
| Orientation | Medal alignment ↑↑ |
| Engraver(s) | Obverse: Arnold Machin Reverse: Norman Sillman |
| In circulation to | |
| Reference(s) | KM#17, Schön#17 |
| Obverse description | Young bust right |
|---|---|
| Obverse script | Latin |
| Obverse lettering | ELIZABETH II SEYCHELLES 1972 |
| Reverse description | Cow head |
| Reverse script | Latin |
| Reverse lettering | · ONE CENT · GROW MORE FOOD |
| Edge | Smooth |
| Mint | |
| Mintage |
1972 - Minted in 1971 - 2 370 000 |
| Numisquare ID | 1543798270 |
| Additional information |
Historical Context: The 1972 Seychelles 1 Cent coin was issued under Queen Elizabeth II's reign, a period when Seychelles was a British Crown Colony progressing towards self-governance. This coin exemplifies the nation's participation in the global Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) coin program. This UN initiative aimed to raise awareness for food security and agricultural development, a vital focus for Seychelles, underscoring its commitment to sustainable local resources and international cooperation during a transformative era.
Artistry: The obverse features Arnold Machin's second definitive effigy of Queen Elizabeth II, facing right and wearing the Girls of Great Britain and Ireland Tiara, a hallmark of Commonwealth numismatic portraiture. The reverse design, reflecting the FAO theme, prominently depicts a stylized fish and a stalk of maize, symbolizing the crucial role of both marine and terrestrial agriculture in the Seychellois economy. The inscription "FOOD FOR ALL" reinforces the coin's dedication to combating hunger.
Technical/Grading: Struck from a lightweight aluminium-magnesium alloy (96.1-96.9% Aluminium, 3.1-3.9% Magnesium), weighing 0.7 grams and measuring 16 mm, this coin's material can lead to softer strikes. Key high-points for grading on the obverse include the Queen's hair above the ear and tiara details. On the reverse, crispness in the fish scales and maize kernels indicates a strong strike. Due to the alloy, well-preserved examples with minimal contact marks and good luster, showing sharp details, are highly sought after.