10 Dollars - Elizabeth II Warship

Historical Context: Issued in 2022, this Saint Vincent and the Grenadines 10 Dollars gold coin is historically significant as one of the final numismatic issues bearing Queen Elizabeth II's effigy before her passing. As a Commonwealth realm, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines often issues collectible gold coinage for the international market. The "Warship" theme likely honors the nation's maritime heritage, a fitting motif for an island state, underscoring the enduring connection between the Caribbean nation and the British monarchy.

Artistry: The obverse features a standard Queen Elizabeth II effigy, likely Ian Rank-Broadley's fourth or Jody Clark's fifth portrait, both characteristic of modern Commonwealth coinage for their detailed realism. The reverse, depicting a warship, was designed by a specialized artist or studio and struck by a private mint. These modern bullion designs emphasize intricate detail and dynamic composition, reflecting a contemporary illustrative style, with individual engraver signatures typically absent.

Technical/Grading: For this 31.1-gram, .9999 fine gold coin, critical grading points include field preservation, as pure gold is highly susceptible to hairlines and contact marks. On the obverse, inspect high points of Elizabeth II's effigy (hair, crown) for strike weakness or friction. On the reverse, assess the intricate details of the warship's rigging, masts, and hull definition, prone to incomplete strikes. Luster integrity and absence of environmental spotting are paramount for achieving top grades (MS/PR-69/70).