1 Dollar - Elizabeth II RMS Rhone

Historical Context: Issued in 2022 by the British Virgin Islands, this 1 Dollar coin features Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, representing the twilight years of her historic reign. The British Virgin Islands, a British overseas territory, frequently issues commemorative coinage celebrating its unique natural beauty and rich maritime heritage. This particular issue honors the RMS Rhone, a Royal Mail Ship that sank off Salt Island in 1867, becoming one of the Caribbean's most iconic dive sites and a significant part of BVI cultural identity.

Artistry: The obverse bears the acclaimed fifth effigy of Queen Elizabeth II by Jody Clark, a contemporary realist portrayal capturing the monarch's dignified profile with intricate detail. The reverse, dedicated to the RMS Rhone, likely depicts the vessel either in its majestic sailing form or as its evocative underwater wreck, often incorporating marine life. The stylistic approach is distinctly modern commemorative, emphasizing historical accuracy and visual appeal.

Technical/Grading: Struck in Virenium, a proprietary alloy known for its durability and distinctive appearance, this 8-gram, 28.40 mm coin typically exhibits excellent strike quality. Key high-points for wear or strike weakness on the obverse include the Queen's hair above the ear and the highest points of the crown. On the reverse, details of the ship's rigging or the wreck's contours are critical for assessing strike definition. Collectors should seek examples with full, original luster and minimal contact marks to achieve top-tier grades.