1 Dollar - Elizabeth II 10th Anniversary Attack on the Twin Towers

Historical Context: Issued by the British Virgin Islands (2011), this copper-nickel dollar commemorates the tenth anniversary of the September 11th attacks. As a British Overseas Territory, the BVI issues coinage under Queen Elizabeth II. While local themes are typical, this NCLT issue reflects a broader trend of smaller authorities commemorating globally significant events. Its timing, a decade post-tragedy, underscores 9/11's enduring global impact and solemn remembrance, positioning it within a numismatic market strategy targeting international collectors of poignant historical markers.

Artistry: The obverse features the standard effigy of Queen Elizabeth II, most likely the mature portrait by Ian Rank-Broadley FRBS, prevalent across Commonwealth coinage. The reverse design, dedicated to the 9/11 anniversary, employs contemporary realist or symbolic iconography. A specific reverse engraver is seldom documented; execution is typically by private mints (e.g., Pobjoy Mint) specializing in commemorative coinage. Artistic intent evokes solemnity and remembrance through detailed visual narrative, adhering to modern NCLT production standards.

Technical/Grading: This 38.6mm copper-nickel coin's grading prioritizes surface preservation and strike. Obverse high-points include the Queen's hair above the ear and highest drapery folds. For the reverse, absent specific design, common high-points on 9/11 commemoratives are apexes of structures (e.g., Twin Towers), raised flag elements, or intricate memorial motifs. Examine expansive fields for hairlines and contact marks, prevalent on base metal. Luster breaks across high-relief elements indicate early wear or friction, critical for higher grades.