Catalogus
| Uitgever | The Gambia |
|---|---|
| Jaar | 1970 |
| Type | Non-circulating coin |
| Waarde | 8 Shillings (⅖) |
| Valuta | Pound (1966-1971) |
| Samenstelling | Copper-nickel (75% Copper, 25% Nickel) |
| Gewicht | 33.8 g |
| Diameter | 41 mm |
| Dikte | 3 mm |
| Vorm | Round |
| Techniek | Milled |
| Oriëntatie | Medal alignment ↑↑ |
| Graveur(s) | Arnold Machin |
| In omloop tot | |
| Referentie(s) | KM#7, Schön#7 |
| Beschrijving voorzijde | Portrait of Queen Elizabeth the Second. |
|---|---|
| Schrift voorzijde | Latin |
| Opschrift voorzijde | THE GAMBIA 1970 |
| Beschrijving keerzijde | Hippopotamus left. Value in English above it. Values in both Wolof and Mandinka languages below hippo. |
| Schrift keerzijde | Arabic, Latin |
| Opschrift keerzijde |
8 SHILLINGS جاردرخر دليس جل (Translation: `dalasi fula` (Mandinka) and `dérém nyaar` (Wolof) . Both mean `Two basic currencies`, - two derem / two dalasis) |
| Rand | Reeded |
| Muntplaats | |
| Oplage |
1970 - - 25 000 |
| Numisquare-ID | 1164763910 |
| Aanvullende informatie |
Historical Context:This 1970 8 Shillings coin from The Gambia signifies a pivotal moment. Issued after independence in 1965 and coinciding with its 1970 republican declaration, it embodies continuity and sovereignty. Despite republican status, it features Queen Elizabeth II as Head of the Commonwealth. The unusual 8 Shillings denomination highlights The Gambia's distinctive post-colonial currency structure, reflecting its evolving economic identity before decimalization.
Artistry:The obverse displays the second definitive portrait of Queen Elizabeth II by Arnold Machin. This classical, laureate bust, facing right, became an iconic representation across Commonwealth coinages. The reverse design features a crocodile, depicted with realism. This choice of indigenous fauna, common in post-colonial numismatics, symbolically connects The Gambia's natural heritage with its emerging national identity.
Technical/Grading:Struck in copper-nickel, this substantial coin (41mm, 33.8g) generally exhibits a strong strike. Key high-points on the obverse include the Queen's hair above her ear and highest drapery folds. On the reverse, the raised scales and snout of the crocodile are indicators for wear. Collectors should assess the sharpness of scales and the Queen's hair for strike quality. While the large planchet allows for relief, minor strike weakness in central details or rim definition can occasionally be observed.