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The 1959 Bermuda 1 Crown Silver Coin, celebrating the 350th Anniversary of the island’s settlement, is a significant piece in the history of Bermuda’s numismatic heritage. The island of Bermuda, known for its rich colonial history, issued this special coin as part of the celebrations marking 350 years since its first permanent settlement in 1609. This commemorative coin was minted to honor Bermuda’s history and the establishment of the island as a British colony. The island, with its strategic location in the Atlantic Ocean, played an important role in maritime history, serving as a vital stopping point for transatlantic voyages and a hub for British naval operations. The 1959 crown is a tribute to the island's past, as well as its cultural and historical significance to the British Empire during the 17th century.
The obverse design of the Bermuda 1 Crown Silver coin features a stunning depiction of the likeness of Queen Elizabeth II. As the reigning monarch of Great Britain and its colonies, her portrait was used on many of the coins issued during her reign, including those from Bermuda. The design by Arnold Machin, a well-known engraver, showcases Queen Elizabeth II in a mature, dignified profile, facing to the right. Her image is encircled by the inscription "ELIZABETH II" and the country of origin, "BERMUDA," with the year of issue, "1959," prominently displayed below her portrait. This design remains a symbol of the British monarchy’s enduring presence in Bermuda and its ties to the Commonwealth during the 20th century.
The reverse of the Bermuda 1959 1 Crown Silver Coin is where the true significance of the coin’s commemorative nature shines. The design highlights the 350th Anniversary of the settlement of Bermuda in 1609. The reverse features a stylized rendering of the ship “Sea Venture,” which was the vessel that brought the first permanent settlers to Bermuda. In the design, the ship is depicted in full sail, representing the historical moment when the Sea Venture was shipwrecked on the reefs of Bermuda during its journey from London to the English colonies in Virginia. This event ultimately led to the establishment of Bermuda as a permanent settlement, and the island became a pivotal part of the British Empire. Above the ship, the inscription reads “350th Anniversary of the Settlement of Bermuda,” marking the significance of the year 1609 in the island’s history. The reverse also includes the denomination of the coin, "ONE CROWN," further identifying it as a British Crown coin.
The coin is struck in sterling silver, with a weight of approximately 28.28 grams and a diameter of 38.61 millimeters. It was minted by the Royal Mint in the United Kingdom, which was responsible for producing the official coinage for British colonies during this period. The Royal Mint’s quality and craftsmanship are reflected in the high relief and intricate detailing of the designs on both the obverse and reverse sides of the coin. The use of sterling silver, composed of 92.5% silver, ensures that the coin is both durable and visually appealing, with a pleasing luster and sheen that highlights the artwork and inscription. The coin’s fine silver content, coupled with the historical significance of the designs, makes it a prized piece for collectors.
The mintage of the Bermuda 1 Crown Silver Coin issued in 1959 was limited, making it a relatively rare collector's item today. While the exact mintage numbers for this particular coin are not widely circulated, it is generally known that commemorative issues such as this were produced in smaller numbers than regular circulating coins. The fact that it was struck to mark the 350th Anniversary of Bermuda’s settlement adds to its historical appeal, making it a sought-after item among numismatists and collectors of British Commonwealth coins. The limited mintage of this commemorative coin ensures that it holds a level of scarcity, contributing to its desirability and value in the marketplace today.
In terms of condition, the 1959 Bermuda 1 Crown Silver Coin is considered to be in Brilliant Uncirculated (BU) condition. Coins graded as BU are those that have never been used in circulation and have retained their original luster and sharp details. The 1959 Bermuda Crown in BU condition typically displays a well-preserved appearance, with crisp, well-defined designs and minimal wear. The surfaces are smooth and free of significant marks or scratches, showcasing the high quality of the coin’s minting process. As a commemorative issue, this coin was likely stored with care, further ensuring its excellent condition. Coins in BU condition are highly valued by collectors due to their pristine state, and they command a premium compared to circulated examples.
One of the appealing features of this coin is its dual historical significance. Not only does it commemorate the 350th Anniversary of Bermuda's settlement, but it also reflects the broader history of the British Empire during the 20th century. The coin features both elements of Bermuda’s history and the lasting relationship between Bermuda and Great Britain. Additionally, the 1959 Bermuda 1 Crown Silver Coin serves as a tangible connection to a critical moment in the island's history—the arrival of the Sea Venture in 1609—and the subsequent development of the island into a British colony. This historical context, combined with the elegant and detailed design, makes the coin a valuable addition to any collection of commemorative or world coins.
Today, the 1959 Bermuda 1 Crown Silver Coin is an important item for collectors interested in British Commonwealth coinage, as well as those focused on the numismatic history of Bermuda. Its historical context, striking design, and limited mintage make it an attractive piece for both new and seasoned collectors. The coin remains an enduring symbol of Bermuda’s colonial past and a reminder of the island’s vital role in the expansion of the British Empire in the Americas. Its significance is amplified by its elegant design and the detailed rendering of the Sea Venture, making it not just a coin but a piece of history.
As a part of the broader collection of British Commonwealth coins, the 1959 Bermuda 1 Crown Silver Coin is highly regarded for its commemorative value. Whether displayed in a numismatic collection or held as an investment, this coin is sure to continue to be a valuable and meaningful piece for generations of collectors. The legacy of Bermuda’s 350th Anniversary, captured in the design of this coin, ensures that it will remain a cherished artifact for years to come.