Catalog
| Issuer | Solomon Islands |
|---|---|
| Year | 1977-1983 |
| Type | Non-circulating coin |
| Value | 5 Dollars |
| Currency | Dollar (1977-date) |
| Composition | Silver (.925) |
| Weight | 28.28 g |
| Diameter | 40 mm |
| Thickness | |
| Shape | Round |
| Technique | Milled |
| Orientation | Medal alignment ↑↑ |
| Engraver(s) | Arnold Machin |
| In circulation to | |
| Reference(s) | KM#7 |
| Obverse description | Young bust right |
|---|---|
| Obverse script | Latin |
| Obverse lettering | ELIZABETH II SOLOMON ISLANDS 1978 |
| Reverse description | Denomination with ring and fossilized clamshell |
| Reverse script | Latin |
| Reverse lettering | 5 DOLLARS |
| Edge | |
| Mint |
(FM) Franklin Mint (The Franklin Mint), Wawa, Pennsylvania, United States (1964-date) |
| Mintage |
1977 FM - Proof - 15 000 1977 FM - Special Uncirculated - 200 1978 FM - Proof - 5 148 1979 FM - Proof - 2 845 1980 FM - Proof - 1 031 1981 FM - Proof - 448 1983 FM - Proof - 339 |
| Numisquare ID | 4758168730 |
| Additional information |
Historical Context: This 5 Dollars coin, issued by the Solomon Islands between 1977 and 1983, encapsulates a pivotal period for the nascent nation. Featuring Queen Elizabeth II, it bridges the era of British protectorate status and the islands' independence in 1978. As a non-circulating commemorative, it highlighted the Solomon Islands' unique natural heritage, specifically its ancient geological past through the depiction of a fossilized clam shell, symbolizing a distinct national identity.
Artistry: The obverse features Arnold Machin's second definitive portrait of Queen Elizabeth II, facing right, adorned with the Girls of Great Britain and Ireland Tiara. The reverse masterfully depicts a fossilized clam shell, executed in a naturalistic style emphasizing its intricate textures and ancient form. This design choice reflects a conscious celebration of the Solomon Islands' unique biodiversity and deep geological history, presenting a distinct national emblem for the newly independent nation.
Technical/Grading: Struck in .925 fine silver, weighing 28.28 grams and measuring 40mm, this coin represents a high-quality commemorative issue. Key high-points for grading include the Queen's hair above the ear and the tiara details on the obverse. On the reverse, the raised ridges and concentric growth lines of the fossilized clam shell are particularly susceptible to rub or weakness of strike. A premium example will exhibit a full, sharp strike, with intricate detail on the effigy and shell, alongside pristine fields.