Catalog
| Issuer | Turks and Caicos Islands |
|---|---|
| Year | 1999 |
| Type | Non-circulating coin |
| Value | 20 Crowns |
| Currency | Crown (1969-date) |
| Composition | Silver (.999) |
| Weight | 31.9 g |
| Diameter | |
| Thickness | |
| Shape | Round |
| Technique | Milled, Colored |
| Orientation | Medal alignment ↑↑ |
| Engraver(s) | |
| In circulation to | |
| Reference(s) |
| Obverse description | Arms above value. |
|---|---|
| Obverse script | Latin |
| Obverse lettering | TURKS AND CAICOS ISLANDS 1999 TWENTY CROWNS |
| Reverse description | Two colorized butterflies on flowers. |
| Reverse script | |
| Reverse lettering | |
| Edge | |
| Mint | |
| Mintage |
1999 - Proof - |
| Numisquare ID | 1005307500 |
| Additional information |
Historical Context: The 1999 20 Crowns coin from the Turks and Caicos Islands exemplifies a late 20th-century trend of non-circulating legal tender (NCLT) issues. As a British Overseas Territory, it features Queen Elizabeth II on the obverse. This era saw many commemorative coins celebrating local natural history, for promotion and revenue. The Hairstreak Butterflies theme highlights the islands' biodiversity, appealing to global collectors of wildlife numismatics.
Artistry: The reverse design, depicting Hairstreak Butterflies, showcases a modern commemorative style with naturalistic detail. The specific engraver is uncredited, typical for commissioned issues from private mints. The coin's distinguishing feature is its factory-applied colorization, a technique popular by 1999. This application of vibrant hues enhances the butterflies' visual appeal beyond traditional monochromatic relief, creating a more lifelike depiction for collectors.
Technical/Grading: Struck in .999 fine silver (31.9 grams), this 20 Crowns coin was produced to proof or proof-like standards. Obverse high-points include Queen Elizabeth II’s effigy, especially hair or crown details. For the reverse, critical high-points are the intricate butterfly wings, antennae, and accompanying foliage. Technical strike quality is assessed by device sharpness, field reflectivity, and crucially, the integrity of the factory-applied colorization. Any chipping or flaking significantly impacts the grade.