1 Crown - Elizabeth II 90th Birthday of Queen Elizabeth II, Silver Proof

Historical Context: This 2016 Isle of Man 1 Crown commemorates the 90th birthday of Queen Elizabeth II, a pivotal milestone for the longest-reigning British monarch. Issued by a British Crown Dependency, this coin underscores the Isle of Man's distinct numismatic sovereignty while participating in broader Commonwealth celebrations of royal events. The year 2016 marked a period of profound reflection on the Queen's enduring reign, with numerous commemorative issues across the Commonwealth, making this piece a significant artifact of that celebratory era.

Artistry: The artistic execution adheres to the contemporary British numismatic tradition, emphasizing realistic portraiture for the obverse effigy of Her Majesty, likely by a prominent royal engraver of the era (e.g., Jody Clark for UK coinage of this period, though specific Isle of Man engravers vary). The reverse design would typically feature symbolic or heraldic elements pertinent to the 90th birthday theme, rendered with the intricate detail expected of a proof strike. The overall aesthetic balances regal formality with modern commemorative design principles, characteristic of high-quality issues from the British Royal Mint or its affiliates.

Technical/Grading: Struck in .925 silver to a proof finish, this 38.60 mm, 28.28 g coin demands meticulous inspection for grading. Key high-points include the integrity of the mirrored fields, which must be entirely free of hairlines, contact marks, or haze. The frosted devices, particularly the Queen's effigy and any intricate reverse motifs, should exhibit full, sharp detail and relief without any evidence of weakness or rub. The square-edged rim must be pristine. Preservation of the original mint capsule and packaging is paramount for maintaining its proof quality and collector value.