Guernsey's wildlife series has issued these commemorative-format 10 pence pieces through the Bailiwick's currency authority, which retains the right to issue its own coinage independently of the United Kingdom despite using sterling denominations. The Common Lizard, Zootoca vivipara, is notable for being viviparous — one of the very few reptiles in northern Europe to bear live young rather than lay eggs, an adaptation to the cool Atlantic climate of the Channel Islands.
Guernsey's wildlife series has issued these commemorative-format 10 pence pieces through the Bailiwick's currency authority, which retains the right to issue its own coinage independently of the United Kingdom despite using sterling denominations. The Common Lizard, Zootoca vivipara, is notable for being viviparous — one of the very few reptiles in northern Europe to bear live young rather than lay eggs, an adaptation to the cool Atlantic climate of the Channel Islands.