5 Dollars - Elizabeth II Papal Visit, Silver Proof Issue

Historical Context: Issued by Saint Lucia in 1986, this 5 Dollars silver proof coin commemorates a pivotal national event: the Papal Visit of Pope John Paul II. Elizabeth II reigned as Head of the Commonwealth and Saint Lucia's Head of State. The Pope's visit was a momentous occasion for the predominantly Catholic island, signifying spiritual unity and global recognition, thus meriting this special numismatic issue.

Artistry: The obverse features the third definitive portrait of Queen Elizabeth II by Raphael Maklouf, introduced in 1985. This crowned effigy, facing right, adheres to a neo-classical stylistic school, known for its refined elegance. The reverse design, specific to the Papal Visit, typically portrays Pope John Paul II, often with symbolic elements representing Saint Lucia, capturing the essence of the historic occasion through illustrative numismatic art.

Technical/Grading: As a silver proof issue, this 5 Dollars coin was struck from .925 sterling silver, weighing 28.28 grams and measuring 38.61 millimeters. Proof coins exhibit exceptional strike quality, featuring highly polished, mirror-like fields and frosted, often cameo-effect, devices. Key high-points for grading include the highest relief areas of Queen Elizabeth II's crown and hair on the obverse, and on the reverse, the facial features and vestments of Pope John Paul II, which should exhibit full detail and crispness.