Catalog
| Issuer | Tuvalu |
|---|---|
| Year | 1976-1985 |
| Type | Standard circulation coin |
| Value | 20 Cents |
| Currency | Dollar (1976-date) |
| Composition | Copper-nickel (75% Copper, 25% Nickel) |
| Weight | 11.25 g |
| Diameter | 28.45 mm |
| Thickness | 2.32 mm |
| Shape | Round |
| Technique | Milled |
| Orientation | Medal alignment ↑↑ |
| Engraver(s) | Obverse: Arnold Machin Reverse: John Donald |
| In circulation to | |
| Reference(s) | KM#5, Schön#5 |
| Obverse description | Crowned portrait of the young Queen Elizabeth II to the right |
|---|---|
| Obverse script | Latin |
| Obverse lettering | QUEEN ELIZABETH THE SECOND |
| Reverse description | Flying fish |
| Reverse script | Latin |
| Reverse lettering | TUVALU 20c 1985 |
| Edge | Milled |
| Mint | |
| Mintage |
1976 - - 36 000 1976 - Proof - 20 000 1981 - - 1981 - Proof - 1985 - - |
| Numisquare ID | 7632241440 |
| Additional information |
Historical Context: This 20 Cents coin from Tuvalu, featuring Queen Elizabeth II's second effigy, marks a pivotal era for the island nation. Issued from 1976 to 1985, it spans Tuvalu's transition from a British dependency to an independent Commonwealth realm in 1978. The monarch's continued presence on its coinage highlights Tuvalu's enduring Commonwealth ties, even as it established monetary sovereignty and national identity during its early years.
Artistry: The obverse showcases Arnold Machin's iconic second portrait of Queen Elizabeth II. This effigy, depicting the Queen facing right wearing the "Girls of Great Britain and Ireland" Tiara, is characteristic of post-decimalization Commonwealth coinage, known for its dignified realism. The reverse, designed by Stuart Devlin, features a stylized nautilus shell, an apt emblem for an oceanic nation, rendered with a blend of naturalistic detail and artistic abstraction.
Technical/Grading: Struck in copper-nickel, this coin generally exhibits good strike quality. For grading, critical high-points on the obverse include the Queen's hair above the ear, the tiara's intricate details, and the ear itself. On the reverse, the nautilus shell's prominent ridges and apex are key areas for wear. A well-preserved example displays sharp lines in the shell's spirals and texture, coupled with even, original luster across the fields, indicative of minimal handling.