2 Pounds - Elizabeth II Women's Suffrage - Margaret Kelvin

Issuer Isle of Man
Year 2021
Type Commemorative circulation coin
Value 2 Pounds
Currency Pound (decimalized, 1971-date)
Composition Bimetallic: copper-nickel centre in nickel brass ring
Weight 12 g
Diameter 28.4 mm
Thickness
Shape Round
Technique Milled
Orientation Medal alignment ↑↑
Engraver(s) Obverse: Jody Clark
Reverse: Glyn Davies
In circulation to
Reference(s) KM#1719
Obverse description Bust of Queen Elizabeth II facing right
Obverse script Latin
Obverse lettering QUEEN ELIZABETH II · ISLE OF MAN · 2021 · JC
Reverse description An image of Margaret Kelvin’s name being signed in the original Poll Books
Reverse script Latin
Reverse lettering PIONEERING WOMEN’S SUFFRAGE 1881 2 POUNDS
Edge Reeded
Mint
Mintage 2021 - -
Numisquare ID 1035355180
Additional information

Historical Context: Issued by the Isle of Man in 2021, this bimetallic 2 Pounds coin commemorates Women's Suffrage, specifically honoring Margaret Kelvin. The Isle of Man pioneered suffrage, granting property-owning women the vote in 1881, predating the UK. This Elizabeth II-era issue reflects a modern commemorative trend, celebrating the Crown Dependency's distinct heritage and progressive social reforms, underscoring its historical significance in gender equality.

Artistry: The obverse features a definitive effigy of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, typically by artists like Jody Clark, reflecting a dignified, mature portraiture style common to Commonwealth issues. The reverse, dedicated to Margaret Kelvin, employs a realistic, commemorative portraiture. While a specific engraver for KM#1719's reverse is not universally attributed, the execution aligns with high standards of modern medallic art, often produced by mints for the Isle of Man, prioritizing clarity and historical accuracy.

Technical/Grading: For this bimetallic type (copper-nickel centre in nickel brass ring), critical grading points include the sharpness and integrity of the inner core-to-outer ring junction, where friction marks often first appear. On the obverse, examine intricate details of Queen Elizabeth II's hair and crown. On the reverse, the fidelity of Margaret Kelvin's portrait, facial features, and textual elements is paramount. Pristine fields, free of contact marks, and strong original luster are essential for Mint State specimens, alongside a well-defined rim.

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