Catalog
| Issuer | Solomon Islands |
|---|---|
| Year | 1977-1983 |
| Type | Standard circulation coin |
| Value | 10 Cents |
| Currency | Dollar (1977-date) |
| Composition | Copper-nickel (75% Copper, 25% Nickel) |
| Weight | 5.66 g |
| Diameter | 23.6 mm |
| Thickness | 1.7 mm |
| Shape | Round |
| Technique | Milled |
| Orientation | Medal alignment ↑↑ |
| Engraver(s) | Obverse: Arnold Machin Reverse: David Thomas |
| In circulation to | |
| Reference(s) | KM#4 |
| Obverse description | The bust of Queen Elizabeth II facing right with the date below |
|---|---|
| Obverse script | Latin |
| Obverse lettering | ELIZABETH II SOLOMON ISLANDS 1977 |
| Reverse description | The denomination divided by a sea spirit |
| Reverse script | Latin |
| Reverse lettering | 10 CENTS |
| Edge | Milled |
| Mint |
Royal Mint, Llantrisant, United Kingdom (1968-date) FM Franklin Mint (The Franklin Mint), Wawa, Pennsylvania, United States (1964-date) |
| Mintage |
1977 - - 3 600 000 1977 FM - Matte - 6 000 1977 FM - Proof - 14 000 1977 FM - Special Uncirculated - 1978 FM - Matte - 6 000 1978 FM - Proof - 5 122 1978 FM - Special Uncirculated - 544 1979 FM - Matte - 6 000 1979 FM - Proof - 2 845 1979 FM - Special Uncirculated - 677 1980 FM - Matte - 6 000 1980 FM - Proof - 1 031 1980 FM - Special Uncirculated - 624 1981 FM - Matte - 6 000 1981 FM - Proof - 448 1981 FM - Special Uncirculated - 212 1982 FM - Proof - 1982 FM - Special Uncirculated - 1983 FM - Matte - 1983 FM - Proof - 1983 FM - Special Uncirculated - 200 |
| Numisquare ID | 3034384000 |
| Additional information |
Historical Context: This 10 Cents coin, featuring the second portrait of Elizabeth II, was issued by the Solomon Islands between 1977 and 1983. This period is pivotal, encompassing the nation's transition to full independence from the United Kingdom in 1978. The continued depiction of the British monarch on the coinage underscores the Solomon Islands' enduring membership within the Commonwealth realm, symbolizing a blend of historical ties and nascent national identity during a crucial era of self-determination.
Artistry: The obverse features Arnold Machin's dignified second effigy of Queen Elizabeth II, facing right and wearing the 'Girls of Great Britain and Ireland' Tiara. Machin's work exemplifies a post-war British numismatic realism, presenting a regal yet accessible monarch. The reverse design showcases a magnificent frigatebird (Fregata minor) in flight, a culturally significant motif for the Solomon Islands, symbolizing navigation, power, and the islands' maritime heritage. The bird's dynamic pose against a plain field provides a strong, clear national emblem.
Technical/Grading: Struck in copper-nickel, with a weight of 5.66 grams and a diameter of 23.6 millimeters, this coin series generally exhibits a consistent strike. For grading, key high-points to examine on the obverse include the Queen's hair above her ear and the intricate details of the tiara. On the reverse, critical areas for assessing wear are the frigatebird's head, breast, and the leading edges of its wings. Coins retaining full original luster and sharp feather details are highly sought after by collectors.