Isle of Man Decimal Coin Collection Set from 1971 to 1975, by set and theme
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In this article, you are going to see two parts, named Part I and Part II. In Part I, it is a part to illustrate decimal coin by set, and by theme in Part II.
Part I (by set)
It is very interesting to talk about this topic. Because the 1971 IOM coin collection sets were struck at the Royal Mint, and the 1972 to 1975 sets then were struck at the Pobjoy Mint. But, Tynwald, the IOM government entity, had to require its own consistency on IOM coinage at the beginning of decimal coinage system. Therefore, the 1972 to 1974 sets had to be struck in 1975. Remember that IOM Year coin collection set had the specimen finish (SF) set, Brilliant Uncirculated (BU) finish set and Proof (PF) finish set in 1971, what sets would possibly be in 1975. The answer is SF (or BU) sets only. In order to illustrate each set, 50p coin from each set are used to show the difference among them (see pictures below). With regard to 1971 coin sets, the SF set was presented in plastic holder and the PF set in a white square box both made by the Royal Mint. Interestingly, the BU sets was all stored in Perspex folder made by the Pobjoy Mint when I sourced them.
1971 Viking 50p Specimen Finish (SF) coin from the Royal Mint folder set
1971 Viking 50p Brilliant Uncirculated (BU) from the Royal Mint BU set
1971 Viking 50p Proof (PF) coin from the Royal Mint proof set
1972 50p Brilliant Uncirculated (BU) coin from original the Pobjoy Mint BU set
1973 50p Brilliant Uncirculated (BU) coin from original the Pobjoy Mint BU set
1974 50p Brilliant Uncirculated (BU) coin from original the Pobjoy Mint BU set
1975 Specimen Finish (SF) set
You have seen year coin collection sets above from 1971 to 1975. It is worth mentioning that the Pobjoy mint did really good a start for Tynwald especially over the period between the two mints in transit. They smoothly shifted the PF sets of 1971 to 1974 and the BU sets of 1972 to 1975. Probably, it is only just a sign for the number 4 related circle. The ball is in your hands what will you do?
Part II (by theme)
Here we go, …
1975 Viking boat in full-sail 50p coin (Start, PM)
(Note: The reverse was created by the Royal Mint. This coin below it belongs to 1972/1973/1974 theme. Therefore, BU kind — (1972/73/74/75) & PF kind — (1971/72/73/74).)
1976 IOM Viking longboat 50p coin with Odin’s Raven in 1976/1977/1978/1979(t)
1979 IOM Viking Millennium Voyage 50p coin, associated with A/B/C/D sequence, in 1979
(Note: Tynwald Millennium Voyage and Royal Visit IOM events were held in July simultaneously.)
1980 IOM Viking boat in full-sail 50p coin in 1980aa/81aa/82ac/83aa
1984 IOM Viking boat in shield 50p coin in 1984aa/85aa/86aa/87aa
1988 IOM Personal Computer 50p coin in 1988aa/89aa/90aa/91aa & 1992aa/93aa/94aa/95aa
1996 IOM T.T.-related 50p coin in 1996aa (large)/97aa (large)/98aa/99aa
2000 IOM Christianity 50p coin in 2000aa/01aa/02aa/03aa
2004 IOM Miller’s Tower 50p coin in 2004aa/05aa/06aa/07aa & 2008aa/09aa/10aa/11aa & 2012aa/13aa/14aa/15aa & 2016aa (The End, PM)
The 4th portrait and the 5th portrait of Q E II and the Pobjoy own portrait in transit in 2015 from the perspectives of Tynwald and the Pobjoy Mint. In order to know more about Q E II portraits in details, visit Royal Mint website [adapted on 23/08/2018]. (Note: The Pobjoy own portrait was only used on circulating commemorative coins (i.e., IOM T.T. and Xmas).)
Note for this part: Die letters may vary from coins to coins above over the period of 1979 to 2016. However, we use AA/aa version instead here.
UK Colour-printed 50p coins in silver and in base metal
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First of all, it is background of two Fifty pence coins we will talk about one of the Snowman series and Peter Rabbit. The Snowman and Billy was produced by the Pobjoy Mint in 2014, and Peter Rabbit was produced by the Royal Mint in 2016. It is very very interesting to talk about this topic. Because there is NO a 2015 IOM Xmas 50p existed. This is the gap the PM left it open to the RM. Moreover, it is 13(=2016-2003) years ago, the PM implied colour-printed technique on 50p coins, but the RM took the colour-printed path on 50p coins only in 2016. Note the RM first implication of colour-printed version was noted on £2 coins in silver, precisely silver piedfort, in 2002. We will compare Fifty pence coins in silver first and then in base metal next. In terms of UK, it refers to the producers whom are based in the United Kingdom.
First round, it is about time. The Snowman first appearance, the Snowman and James, was on IOM Xmas 50p coins in 2003 to celebrate the Snowman animation alive for 25 years since 1978. Peter Rabbit first appearance was in 1993 on Gibraltar Crown coins to celebrate the 100 years of Peter Rabbit. Interestingly, either Gibraltar coins or Gibraltar Crown coins all are produced by the PM at the time. Then Peter Rabbit was introduced to collectors on 50p coins in 2016 in order for celebrating the 150 anniversary of Beatrix Potter under the subject of “the Tale of Peter Rabbit” derived from Beatrix Potter’s 23 little tales. Right now, a bit confusion gets my attention, which is between 1893(=1993-100) and 1866(=2016-150). From the numbers 1893 and 1866, you can clearly see how the Mints’ thoughts for avoiding overlapped things, and how to get into this market firmly by any chance. The 2014 Snowman is sort of the 2nd one in the Xmas series and the 2016 Peter Rabbit is sort of the first one in series.
2014 The Snowman and Billy 50p coin in silver, struck at the Pobjoy Mint.
2016 The Peter Rabbit 50p coin in silver, struck at the Royal Mint.
But this round, we look at the two coins from package outside. The Snowman one reminds me PM made certs for this kind just like infinite back to square 1. The Peter Rabbit one looks like a gift. The RM have changed their concept in this industry towards to a luxury gifting industry since 2008 probably.
Outside package for the two coins.
Coin Specification
The Snowman 2014
Peter Rabbit 2016
Basic data: 50p in denomination & 8.00g in weight & 27.30mm in diameter
Alloy: Sterling Silver (.9250, PM)
Alloy: Sterling Silver (.9250, RM)
Quality: Proof (by the PM)
Quality: Proof (by the RM)
Mintage: limited @ 5,000
Mintage: Limited @ 15,000
Note: Copper-Nickel plain & colour-printed
Note: Copper-Nickel plain
None
Initials for the reverse and obverse designers
One more round, we look further at ones in base metal. This is a key part to see how the two mints compete in this market. The PM know very clearly what target customs are, so they issue limited colour-printed version along with plain ones. However, the RM only focus on precious metals and only do colour-printed version in silver. A interesting finding is the issue limit of 7,500. The Beatrix Potter 50p plain coins are limited @ 7,500 and the rest of colour-printed version is limited @ 15,000 in 2016 and but the 2017 ones is lift to 30,000 coins. 7500 x 20 = 7500, 7500 x 22-1, 30000 = 7500 x 23-1 (7500 x 2n-1, n=1,2,3,…; 7500 = 150 x 50). The Falkland Islands Penguin 50p ones is limited at @ 7,500 in base metal only. The two echoes each other but in different metals in 2017.
The Snowman and Billy 2014 50p coin from carded version, limited @ 30K for this kind.
The Snowman and Billy 2014 50p colour-printed, including issue limit above.
Peter Rabbit 2016 50p coin from carded version, limited @ 9.6M for this kind.
From pictures shown above, the Snowman is minted with a prooflike (PL) finish, but the Peter Rabbit is only an Brilliant Uncirculated (BU) finish.
Business is Business, you have to work harder to get your shares in this red blood market. The “alternations or arguments” in 2015 created a big gap for a strong rival competitor to get in this market. Once you get into the gap, it is your success. But you can not forget one thing the two mints know each other well. In other words, inside information somehow appears. I still remember how hard did I get one Peter Rabbit in Feb 2016. My order was placed in afternoon when I started to login my account on the royal mint website in the morning. I could not stop refreshing my website like a robot. This simply reminds me how did I play video games. The RM somehow need update their bandwidth at peak time. Are collectors going to wait all 23 tales? If this is a Yes, probably the RM will handle the opportunity to others.
Last round, it is an extra part to show the Peter Rabbit Crown coins issued on behalf of the government of Gibraltar in 1993.
100 Years of Peter Rabbit Crown Coins issued for Gibraltar.
Isle of Man Christmas Fifty Pence Coin with BA Die Mark
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In this part, we keep our focus on die marks of the AA and the BA in the Xmas series over the period of 1985 to 2016 especially the years 1988, 2004 and 2016. In depth, we talk over three cases on the purpose of illustration of the meaning and existence of the BA die marks. The three cases are 1988 (BA), 2004 (BA) and 2016 (BA), and named Case I, Case II and Case III respectively. For an easy understanding, the correct order when you read through this part is Case III, Case I and Case II in order. Because Case III is only the clue behind the mystery of the BA diemark.
The AA diemark is symbolised for circulating commemorative 50p coins as this kind is categorised under the Prefix A, and the BB die letters only for (non-circulating) commemorative 50p coins as this kind is categorised under the Prefix B (die letters and die marks are interchangeable). The die-letter is sort of different combinations between a prefixion (i.e., 1st letter) and an alphabetic sequence (i.e., 2nd letter). This forms a vast group of die letters (i.e., AA, AB, BA, BB and so forth). In terms of circulating/non-circulating commemorative coins, you could understand the phase from the perspective of the cost of production. In other words, the more money you pay for a coin in price the more details you see on the coin. The BA ones we are going to talk are sort of a mixture between the AA ones and the BB ones (see Case I). After a read, you will have a sense of that the IOM Xmas theme-related products are the Pobjoy mint their own product just like raised a new-born baby in 1980 to present date, if you really know IoM 50p coins well.
Three cases mentioned above are showing in follows:
Case I,
Die marks in 1985 onwards were much simpler than before and in a pattern, and the New portrait made by (Raphael D. Maklouf RA, the 3rd royal coin effigy) was set to be used this year. The BA die marks appeared first time is in 1988. Given a fact that circulating commemorative coins Viking boats were taking off instead Personal computers on the reverse side in 1988. So, it is a question to ask why (the BA) appears not before (i.e., in 1987) or after (i.e., in 1989), but the BA die letters only exist in 1988? Probably, the Mint managed to put the IOM Xmas 50p theme back on track when Tynwald a). allowed them to use a new reverse side (?), b). cut the Xmas theme lose like T.T. 50p coins in 1980s (!). More importantly, the coin’s quality was downgraded internally by the Mint. You can think this like a couple in a good relationship.
However, the BA die letters have a meaningful expression in depth, “Back Again with a lowered quality”, Loud and Clear! The expression was saying “I [the IOM Xmas series] am coming back again, but I will be created differently” (support evidence a Manx cat in 1987 and 2004, and BA in 1988).
The BA die letters are alive on the Xmas theme series first time and the Xmas series is re-born on earth. However, one significant clue appeared on 1987 ones. You probably notice that a Manx cat is facing towards the main object. In other words, you only can see side view of the smaller object which is the back of the cat in front of you. Later soon, the BA die letters came out and published in 1988. Ironically, the die letters indicate a broken heart with sadness LIGHTLY each other.
1988 BB die letter 50p coin (in comparison with the BA and AA die letters)
1988 BA die letter 50p coin
1988 AA die letter 50p coin (in comparison with the BB and AA die letters)
As 3 coins shown above, coin quality actually reduces from BB down to AA and even 1988 BB its own. One indication seen form 1987 IOM Xmas 50p coin is that the cat faces you with full back. Two other facts are noted. 1987 IOM Viking boat 50p coin is hard to find. 1988 Gibraltar Xmas 50p UNC coin is in place made by the Pobjoy mint.
Case II,
BA die marks on 2004 Xmas 50p coins, it is really unbelievable to keep your eyes peeled widely, especially with the object of the Laxey Water Wheel. It was the 150th Anniversary of the Laxey Water Wheel in 2004. The Wheel is a landmark on the island. Is the water wheel related to anything with Xmas? No! No! No!!! But, simply by adding up snowflake it is now. The water wheel appears on 5p coins in 1976 first time when UK introduced decimal coins in 1971. A little background about 1976, the Pobjoy mint was able to design the reverse side on their own first time. For the period of 1972 to 1975, it was still using dies obtained from the RM previously. The main objects of a 2004 Xmas 50p coin was the Laxey water wheel surrounding by snowflakes and the Manx cat that is excluded permanently.
Notable in 2003, mintage of the Xmas theme was cut to 10k from 30k suddenly with famous animation the Snowman published in 1978. Why the mint lets the mintage be only 10k this year, and goes to the path of commercialisation on 50p coins in 2003? Somehow, the IoM Xmas theme was dying in 2003. Finally, the water wheel and the BA answered it, dead or not in 2004. And, half way through the 12-day Christmas.
2004 BA die letter 50p coin
2004 ND die letter 50p coin (in comparison with the ND and AA die letters)
2004 AA die letter 50p coin (in comparison with the ND and AA die letters)
A notable smaller object, a Manx cat sitting on a hill towards the water wheel, will get your attention somehow if you love the Xmas 50p series. In other words, you only can see the back of the cat instead of a full view. The Xmas theme 50p series is alive a 2nd time on earth. However, it indicates a broken heart with sadness MEDIUM this time.
And, Case III.
Firstly, the die marks used this year are AA and BA, not AB! Again, it is BA not AB! Let me tell you one more time, it is BA, BA, BA!!! Once again, it is not the British Airways (BA). This year the BA ends up the entire mystery of die letters, and also is extremely good supporting evidence to decipher its own meaning. It is Back Again. It is very simple to understand if you look at what was the IOM Xmas 50p coin in 2015. It was absolutely nothing. If a BA-die-mark appears, it has definitely something (i.e., S) happened in previous time interval, say St = (t-1), t = current time. For instance, previous years are 2003 (2004 (BA), 10K issue mintage from normal 30K), 1987 (1988 (BA), PC theme after Viking Boat) and 2015 (2016 (BA), a 2015 Xmas 50p coin was not issued) respectively.
A notable object, it is the “p” for “pence” after its disappearance in years. This reminds the IOM Xmas theme 50p is back to square one — the remembrance of the first IOM Xmas 50p coin in 1980. It is time to close the curtain and the show is OVER now. The Xmas theme 50p is alive 3rd time shortly, but eventually it announces dead on earth.
2016 BA die letter 50p coin.
Note: flat font on both side. A notable symbol, the PM mintmark is not shown on this one, and the “p” missing as well.
2016 ND die letter 50p coin (in comparison with the ND and AA die letters).
Note: fat font on both side. A notable symbol, the PM mintmark is not shown on this one, and the “p” missing as well.
2016 AA die letter 50p coin (in comparison with the ND and AA die letters).
Note: fat font on reverse or pudding side, flat font on obverse. A notable symbol, the PM mintmark is not shown on this one, and the “p” missing as well.
Although, the Tower mint is still minting the Xmas theme 50p over the Pobjoy Mint on behalf of the government of Gibraltar at the moment (originally the Tower mint took the contract over from the Pobjoy mint in 2004), but the Xmas theme 50p is no longer the Xmas theme 50p that it was invented by the Pobjoy mint. This time it is a broken heart COMPLETELY and only the path towards — DIVORCE. Therefore, the Pobjoy mint (after divorce) is enormously producing penguin 50p coins on behalf of the government of Falkland Islands 2017 in a lofty way. Ironically, the first coin of the penguin series is made by none sense an error coin. However, no matter who made the decision, the Tower Mint strikes it back with an error coin as well, the House of Keys. This error makes sense and somehow confirms that IOM non-circulating commemorative 50p coins are normally ProofLike (PL) finish, but the Tower Mint seems did not know this principle. This time Tynwald spreads info in black and white loudly, however the Court kept it quietly in contrast to 1980 IOM Xmas 50p mule coins. Will it be another new good artworks from the mints? Probably it is a NO. WHY? commercialisation is purely driven by money not by heart.
One thing (i.e., BA) should not make the same appearance more than three times. But, it really happens in the Xmas series. Therefore, the IOM Xmas 50p series is doomed out of the 50p show eventually. If you are familiar with Major League Baseball (MLB), 3 strikes, you are OUT, and move to next player.
Isle of Man Pre-Norse Fifty pence coins from 2000 to 2003
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Two types of coins are defined by the Tynwald, circulating commemorative coins and commemorative coins. It is very interesting to talk a bit on this topic. You find out it later. This part will introduce the Pre-Norse 50p coins, and then it is a brief summary on IOM 50p circulating coins. The Pre-Norse 50p coins were definitely circulating commemorative coins (ie., regular coinage on the island) during the period of 2000 to 2003. Because you can get them from 2000 to 2003 each year mint. From the perspective of the Mint, the AA batch code tells you direct information rather than speculations.
Also, it is only 4 circulating commemorative coins for the period of 2000 to 2003. Does the number 4 make you some sense here? Let me give you a hint → the Tynwald hill → Tynwald → the Mint works under Tynwald permission. Probably, you now can see a clear and close relationship between the Tynwald and the Mint. Under Mr Derek Pobjoy’s foundation built in early 1970s, the Mint had a very good relationship with the Tynwald in 1980s and 1990s. Yeah, you do not forget one fact that the Mint is a family-run limited company. This hint can give you a full picture of why did the Tynwald give permission to the Mint for producing coins of the period of 1972 to 1974 in 1975. The Tynwald said it was for the purpose of continuity.
What is more, the Mint only issues Miller’s tower 50p for circulating commemorative coins mainly after 2004 onwards. Yeah, they also lost the contract from the government of Gibraltar this year. So it makes sense why gibraltar £2 bi-pounds (12 different reverses in 4 years) coins are hot as well.
2000 Isle of Man Pre-Norse 50p DF coin
2001 Isle of Man Pre-Norse 50p coin
2002 Isle of Man Pre-Norse 50p coin
2003 Isle of Man Pre-Norse 50p coin
From pictures shown above, we firstly conclude that striking quality dramatically decreases year by year (Note: all 50p coins were obtained from year mints to conduct this test). In other words, on the ground of uncirculated standard, it is the way to avoid any biased point(s). Secondly, the flyer within a 2003 year set is a simple paper, not like the flyers within a 2000/2001/2002 set.
As mentioned earlier, the number 4, So where the number 4 comes from on 50p coins? They are as follows:
1971 to 1974 (x4 Viking boat, proof(or prooflike) standard, carried the RM reverse),
1972 to 1975 (x4 Viking boat, BUNC standard, carried the reverse from the RM),
1976 to 1979 (x4 Viking longboat over the island, designed by the PM),
1979 Millenium Voyage (x4, AA-AB-AC-AD in presentation box coins),
1980 to 1983 (x4 Viking full-sailing boat coins),
1984 to 1987 (x4 Viking boat in shield coins),
1988 to 1991 (x4 PC coins),
1992 to 1995 (x4 PC coins),
1996 to 1999 (x4 TTF1 coins),
2000 to 2003 (x4 Pre-Norse coins, Do not forget one thing, they all are regular coinage on the island above!).
Even commemorative coins, 1981 to 1984 (x4 TT coins).
The 4-based themes cover a range from Viking (x4), Tourist Trophy, PC, Tourist Trophy Formula One and Pre-Norse. Things happened or are happening on the island. Based on this point (ie., themes), the Mint did do a good job for the Tynwald.
However, the Pobjoy mint, aims to sell coins/medals under the brand of Pobjoy Mint (registered in 1975). It is really hard to see the designer names on reverse on IOM coinages. But, the Royal Mint (registered in 2007), aims to sell coins/medals designed by talented artists. So the initials appear on U.K. coinages.
In this short part, it will give you some basic ideas how to interpret AC die marks on IOM 50ps. Each single dye mark not only follows a metric but also is having their own information contained. By the way, a single dye mark is only for precious alloy. It is a period of HONEYMOON between the Tynwald and the Mint that has seen from the die marks invented in 1980s. More importantly, this part only covers 50p CN coins made by the Pobjoy mint from 1972 to the end of March 2017. But sadly, they divorced in March 2017.
1978 IOM £1 coin with BC
This BC die marks on £1 round virenium pound coin is the very first the sequence C shown on Isle of Man decimal coinage. Also, this BC is the very first die marks revealed under the Prefix B as well. In 1978, it was the 25th anniversary of Q. E. II Coronation. Note, the AC (a year after) and BC (two years late) die marks were both shifted on 50p coin in terms of denomination/face value.
1979 Viking boat 50p coin with AC
This AC die mark on 50p coin is the very first signal that bears on Isle of Man decimal coinage. It has a very interesting story behind it. The second circulating coin theme, replica Viking boat, was entirely designed and used by the Pobjoy mint only once in 1979. The first circulating coin theme was revealed in 1976. With regard to this AC coin finish, it is better than BU but less than PF/PL.
1980 Xmas 50p coin with BC
This BC die marks on 50p Xmas coin is another story to talk about. First, it is the way how do you understand the letters of BC in the Xmas series, of course, “Before Christ”. They (the Mint) intentionally used the sequence C to celebrating something, but it ended with two BC in the entire series, which are 1980 (BC) and 1981 (BC). 1981 BC can be seen below.
1981 Xmas 50p coins with BC
Instead of AC, BC appeared on Xmas 50p coins in 1980 and 1981. It has two meanings of BC in 1980. One, commemorative coins on b batch coins. It tells the difference between A batch and B batch. It can be understood that they (the Mint) tried to issue two different types of coins for collectors. Two, it also can be understood the meaning of BC as Before Christ. At this point, it is very clear to say that A batch code means circulating commemorative coins, and B batch code means commemorative coins. The BC die letter were noted in 1981, in the same year, a IOM £5 coin was issued. Therefore, the sequence C under the Prefix B means a lot from the perspective of the Mint.
1982 Viking boat 50p coin with AC
This AC was used in 1982, three years later after the first one in 1979, to commemorating the birth of Prince of William, King of the future. In the meanwhile, the babycrib privy (b) appeared instead of AC on proof coins. This confirms somehow the sequence C contains really important information nested. Remember AC is circulating commemorative coins, meaning currency coins on the basis of daily use.
1983 T.T. 50p coin with AC
1983 Xmas 50p coin with AC
This two ACs are really hard to find out especially 1983 TT (AC). Circulating commemorative die marks for this year are AA/AB/AC/AD as same as in 1979 Viking boat. Somehow, it echoes the 4-year window. Is it happened to coin-cide?
In brief, they have one thing in common on coins mentioned above, really really hard to find them out. In other words, the number of mintage is relatively small. Moreover, it is different in terms of coin grade for instance, the 1979 Viking boat AC die mark, the 1982 Viking boat AC die mark and the 1983 Xmas/TT AC die mark. In general, you can find out loads loads of AA coins in contrast in circulation. The number of mintage is huge. Therefore, C, at this point, means that it is used to commemorate an “great” event (internally). If you see the AC die mark on 50p coins which tell you that an event is bearing on circulating commemorative 50p coins (ie., AC) or/and on commemorative 50p coins (i.e., BC) this year. What sort of event was celebrating, perhaps, you have to do your own research.
Isle of Man Tourist Trophy 50p Diamond Finish and Standard Finish Coin
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First of all, this topic is all about circulating and/or circulating commemorative 50p cupronickel (i.e. base metal, silver in colour; 75:25 copper to nickel ratio) coins from the Isle of Man especially the Tourist Trophy (i.e., T.T.) events on the island. More clearly, we are going to split this chapter into two subparts. One part it is about to talk standard finish 50p coin in terms of uncirculated grade. Another part will direct us to diamond finish 50p coin in terms of prooflike grade. Meanwhile, you can find out what are so-called a “diamond finish” 50p coin. All then-standard and diamond finish TT 50p coins are solely minted by the British Pobjoy Mint® which is a private limited company (hereafter the Mint or PM) on behalf of the government of the Isle of Man (Tynwald, note Tynwald you need to see Viking Boats 50ps article) from 1981 to 2016.
Normally, a standard finish IOM 50p coin with only one strike that gives a complete finish on base metal has the purpose to serve people daily use on the island. Therefore, Manx collectors can easily find a 50p coin through their daily life. All standard finish 50p coins are most minted associated with “AA” on its reverse (note AA originally called the production batch codes). For some particular cases, it may appear “AB”/”AC”/”AD” under the A batch (or Prefix A) in the T.T. series, or more special cases AA appears on silver metal. Other single die mark like B, C, D (or E or F) represents precious metals. You will have less information here. Collectors normally call them as die marks (or die letters, interchangeable). They are definitely meant some information internally. Sadly, we can tell you nothing at the moment. Based on my experience, die letters tell me that may indicate many different types of mirrors associated with different striking pressures, times of striking, etc. Why do we see such difference of the die letters among coins? It is a good point to raise. However, it never ever concludes a convincible answer, even from the Mint itself.
Diamond finish 50p coins are specially created by the Mint for the purpose of producing higher standard quality on commemorative coins to serious collectors. The concept of “diamond finish” was invented by the Mint in early 1980s (note I personally think the term was derived from “diamond cut”, because the first mint-master has very strong background of jewellery). What is a coin with a “diamond finish”? In terms of a diamond finish, it is highly likely ProofLike (i.e., PL, no official confirmation) coin (e.g., 1980 IOM Xmas 50p BC coins). More information related to PL can be seen below. Bearing in mind that all diamond finish 50p coins come with die letters “BB” on reverse and a cert (e.g., it includes IOM T.T./IOM Xmas/some IOM Viking boats) originally. Interestingly, some diamond 50p coins in the T.T series come with NO “BB” when minted in late 1990s onwards. The techniques (for instance, matte mirror, reflectivity etc) used on diamond 50p coins are very detailed and enjoyable when you hold and look at it. Because the mirrored-field (or mirror-liked field) has higher reflectivity than a normal standard 50p coin but slightly lower than any proof base metal coins made by the Mint. Last, all T.T. 50p coins you are going to see within this chapter are made of cupronickel (Copper-3/4, Nickel-1/4 and appears silver in colour).
“Prooflike (PL) coins appear to look like proof coins but in reality have not been produced using the special proof process. This may include mirrored fields and cameo devices. The scale donates the proper designation for the coin, based on reflectivity, 2 to 4 inches of reflectivity; devices must be frosted.” 2 elements of prooflike coin: polished blanks are used to strike coins, and no proof dies used for mirror-liked field and frosted relief. – pcgs.com
“For instance, PCGS notes that Prooflike Morgan dollars require ‘clear reflection in the fields on both sides from 2-4 inches away.’ The grading company states that a hazy effect or streaks may impede the reflectivity, generally indicating a semi-prooflike condition (which does not appear on the PCGS label).” – pcgs.com
Having said a little about a prooflike finish above, it is time to reveal what the T.T. 50p coins look like now. In this part below, it contains two parts. Part I: it is the pre-1997 section (i.e., 1969 to 1997 echoes British coinage changes, 50p coins were 30.00mm in diameter and 13.50g in weight) and Part II: it is the post-1997 section (i.e., 1997 to date, 50p coins are resized to 27.30mm in diameter and 8.00g in weight).
Part I
In total, six T.T. 50p coins exist before 1997. They are: four T.T. 50p coins from 1981 to 1984) plus two T.T. related (ie., TTF1) 50p coins between 1996 and 1997 (note, by 30.00mm in diameter, therefore 6 in total, or by 27.30mm in diameter it is 7 in total. It all depends on the way how you count them). More details for each coin are as follows:
1984 T.T. commemorates the Sidecar T.T. nine times winner–Mike Boddice. Mintage 100,000 (assumed) standard finish coins (AA) & 30,000 diamond finish coins (BB).
1996 commemorates Philip McCallen Great achievement in 1996. Unknown mintage for both standard finish coins (AA) & diamond finish coins (NO die letters).
1997 commemorates Philip McCallen Great achievement in 1996. Unknown mintage for standard finish coins (AA, 30mm in diameter).
1997 commemorates Philip McCallen Great achievement in 1996. Unknown mintage for standard finish coins (AA, 27.30mm in diameter).
More specifically, 1981 Joey Dunlop
1981 T.T. 50p coin in pictures, Note
Obverse designer A. Machin
Machine: Yamaha (747)
TT on top of the reverse
Circulating Commemorative issue (AA) and commemorative issue (BB)
1981 TT 50p Diamond Finish BB coin w/o error
1981 TT 50p standard finish AA coin w/ error
1981 TT 50p standard finish AB coin w/ error
1981 TT 50p standard finish AB coin
Variation on 1981 Misspelling Error Coins, Note “RACING” only on AB die mark and BB die mark coins. However, it makes a controversial point between AA die mark and BB die mark in terms of FDM. If no any controversy involved, BB die mark lost the FDM function on IOM TT 50p DF coin, and BB die mark only left with meaning of a diamond finish.
It is clearly seeing that the Mint really made a mistake when they produced 50ps of first the T.T. theme in 1981 (seen from pictures below). But they did not fully realise the “spelling” was an issue seriously, and not negotiate with other party properly before striking the first T.T. collection 50p coin. As you can see from pictures below, a small “hump” was used to cover up the first three REA of REARACING (the letters was originally supposed to be “REARACING”). It is very unclear that this hump was done by intension or dispute or economic situation in 1981. But having seen the small hump from pictures below, it really tells people that the Mint made it by intension for sure. This “accident” it is easy to remind collectors WHY did not they correct and recall and re-create a correct reverse die for a commemorative 50p in 1981? However, this mistake will last forever once collectors well noticed this significant difference. A real story behind bar nobody could tell and answer presumably.
1982 Mike Grant Note
Obverse designer A. Machin
Machine: Suzuki (500)
TT on top of the reverse
Circulating Commemorative issue (AA) and commemorative issue (BB)
1982 TT 50p Diamond Finish BB Coin
1982 TT 50p standard finish AA coin
1983 Ron Haslam Note
Obverse designer A. Machin
Machine: Honda
TT on top of the reverse
Circulating Commemorative issue (AA) and commemorative issue (BB)
1983 TT 50p Diamond Finish BB Coin
1983 TT 50p standard finish AA coin
1983 TT 50p standard finish AB coin
1983 TT 50p standard finish AC coin
1983 TT 50p standard finish AD coin
1984 Mike Boddice Note
Obverse designer A. Machin
Machine: Yamaha
TT on top of the reverse
Circulating Commemorative issue (AA) and commemorative issue (BB)
1984 TT 50p Diamond Finish BB Coin
1984 TT 50p standard finish AA coin
1996 Philip McCallen & Nigel Davies Note
Obverse designer R. Maklouf
Why this one is related to T.T. (but for TTF1), you then have to understand first what is w privy noted in 1985. Because of the world-class famous T.T. events to Tynwald.
the 25th Anniversary of decimalisation in the Isle of Man.
NO T.T. logo.
right tail of the first A missing of AA noted, and also existed in 1997 large ones.
Circulating Commemorative issue (AA) and commemorative issue (ND)
1996 50p diamond finish No die letters coin (PL, UNC)
1996 50p standard finish AA coin (no mirrored-field, circulated)
1996 50p standard finish AA coin from decimal mint set (UNC)
1997 Philip McCallen & Nigel Davies Note
Obverse designer R. Maklouf
Why this one is related to T.T. (but for TTF1), see note in 1996 above.
Echo UK coinage changes in resizing 50p coins in 1997.
NO T.T. logo
Circulating Commemorative issue (AA, 27.30mm in diameter) and commemorative issue (AA, 30.00mm in diameter)
1997 50p standard finish AA coin (30.00mm in diameter)–a real collector coin
1997 50p standard finish AA coin circulated (27.30mm in diameter)
1997 AA standard finish 50p coin uncirculated (27.30mm in diameter)
From 1996 to 1999, the reverse was all about Philip McCallen & Nigel Davies (riders of the Formula One TT, TTF1). Also, during the period of 1996 to 1999, the Formula One T.T. theme 50ps coins were issued as circulating coins on the island. But all circulating coins were in a circle of 4-year window (see Viking Boats 50p part). Mintage figures assumed were around 6,000 coins (or less) each year. The one of the riders on reverse, Philip McCallen, became the first-and only-rider to win FOUR races in one week in 1996 T.T.–the Formula One T.T., Junior T.T., Production T.T. and Senior T.T. and almost made it for five races in Lightweight T.T.. His name was in the T.T. history book in 1996 as well. Motor machine maker was HONDA.
Part II
Information beyond this point, they are all about T.T. 50p smaller-sized coins and T.T. related coins after/(within) the period of 1997. In other words, the diameter of all 50p coins in 1997 afterwards is 27.30mm & 8.00g in weight. All diamond finish coins may come cross in this chapter. But it will be around the corner somewhere in this chapter.
If you are keen to collect IOM 50p coins, the themes on IOM 50ps circulating area coins you may have noticed are as follows:
1971 to 1987 “Viking Boats/Long Boats” were struck (by the Royal Mint in 1971, the rest started from 1972 onwards to 03/2017 by the Pobjoy Mint) on 50p coins, regular issue coinage;
And, 1988 to 1995 “Computer Technology, PC” on 50p coins, regular issue coinage;
Moreover, 1996 to 1999 “Philip McCallen”, regular issue coinage;
And then, 2000 to 2003 “Pre-Norse Carved Cross”, regular issue coinage;
Last 2004 to Present “Milner’s Tower”, regular issue coinage.
Since 04/2017, the Tower Mint was pointed as IOM solo minter over the Pobjoy Mint.
All above stated coinages were regular issue coins and no any time gap(s) created and overlapped among 50p coin themes from 1971 to 2003 and even 1972/73/74 50ps. Note the 1972s, 1973s and 1974s were minted in 1975 for the purpose of continuity (i.e., 1972-1973-1974-1975 BU grade, 1971-1972-1973-1974 Proof grade by then). Obviously, this logic it is strongly connected before and after. Considering public information gathered, it tells us that all the 50p coins were followed by one simple rule “consistency” in time order Year by Year. However, ONLY the 1997 large-sized Philip McCallen 50p coin was overlapped between two different sizes in diameter but has the same reverse in IOM decimalisation system. It is more likely to commemorate and distinguish pre-1997 & post-1997 decimal eras on the island. Ahh, yes! It has one single commemorative 50p coin made in 1994, the Legislative Building. Moreover, the Xmas theme was started from 1980 till 2016. But this bit belongs to Xmas commemorative coin part. Dont forget to check that out! We will not reveal any info this chapter.
1998 & 1999, Philip McCallen & Nigel Davies Note
Obverse designers I. Rank-Broadley (except R. Maklouf (1997) )
Why this one is related to T.T. (for TTF1), see note in 1996 above.
NO TT logo noted.
Currency coin (AA) and Circulating commemorative issue
1998 50p standard finish AA coin
1999 50p standard finish AA coin
1999 “Commemorative” coin, Yes or No??!!
In 1949, Isle of Man T.T. races became part of FIM Road Racing World Championship. In 1999, Isle of Man T.T. races celebrates its 50th anniversary and commemorates rider Robert “Les” Graham riding with 500cc AJS “Porcupine”. Whether this coin is a commemorative coin or not, it seems to people that it is not easy to answer it. If you consider a fact that regular issue coinage is in place alongside 1999 50p ones, so this type of 50p coin is a commemorative coin automatically, a very rare commemorative coin.
1999 “T.T.-related Commemorative” 50p coin Note
Obverse designers I. Rank-Broadley (IRB)
NO T.T. logo
IOM T.T. races became part of FIM ROAD RACING WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP GRAND PRIX held since 1949 in the Isle of Man (the 50th Anni.)
Commemorative issue
1999 50p diamond finish AA coin (made in 1990s from a FDC cover)
1999 50p diamond finish AA coin (made in 2010s from the Mint direct)
A Comparison of the AA die marks above
2004 The Trophy Note
Obverse designer I. Rank-Broadley (IRB),
The TT logo next to the trophy
Circulating commemorative issue
2004 TT 50p standard finish AA coin (i.e., UNcirculated)
2004 TT 50p standard finish AA coin (i.e., circulated)
2007 The Trophy and Sidecar
In this year, two 50ps exist, and both to celebrate the 100th Anni. of The T.T. on island. Note
Either the trophy or sidecar obverses designers I. Rank-Broadley (IRB)
the trophy as exact SAME as the 2004 one
sidecar noted “100 YEARS”
T.T. logo both noted.
Circulating commemorative issue (AA)
>>2007 Type I: the Trophy
2007 TT 50p diamond finish ND Coin, the Trophy
2007 TT 50p standard finish AA coin
>>2007 Type II: sidecar
2007 TT 50p diamond finish ND Coin, Sidecar
2007 TT 50p standard finish AA coin, Sidecar
2009 Honda’s 50th Anniversary of world championship racing Note
Obverse designer I. Rank-Broadley (IRB)
The Honda Wing logo & the 2009 TT logo noted.
The rider on coin: J McGuinness on a CBR1000RR Fireblade from his record breaking lap in 2007.
Circulating commemorative (AA) issue and commemorative (ND) issue
2009 TT 50p diamond finish ND coin, Honda’s 50th Anni. of world championship racing
2009 TT 50p standard finish AA coin, Honda’s 50th Anni. of world championship racing
2010 Suzuki’s 50th Anni. of its international racing Note
Obverse designer I. Rank-Broadley (IRB)
The 2010 TT logo noted
The rider on coin Mitsuo Ito (JPN) on a Suzuki to victory in the 1963 50cc TT
Circulating Commemorative (AA) issue and commemorative (ND) issue
2010 TT 50p diamond finish ND Coin, Suzuki’s 50th Anni. of its international racing
2010 TT 50p standard finish AA coin, Suzuki’s 50th Anni. of its international racing
2011 Yamaha at T.T. 50 years Note
obverse designer I. Rank-Broadley (IRB)
The 2011 TT logo noted
Circulating Commemorative (AA) issue which only one variety exits
2011 TT 50p standard finish AA coin, 50 years of Yamaha at the T.T. (high grade)
2011 TT 50p standard finish AA coin, 50 years of Yamaha at the T.T. (low grade)
2012 Enduro Motorcycle Note
“Enduro Motorcycle” noted
obverse designer I. Rank-Broadley (IRB)
Motor cross (off-road racing)
Rider David Knight (IOM)
3-event held in the UK 2012 are as follows:
a). 2012 the Olympic Games held in London UK 2012 (Cyclist From IOM).
b). the Diamond Jubilee of Elizabeth II in 2012 (Queen Victoria celebrated in 1897).
c). Great sport events related to IOM (Motor racing famous around the islands).
2012 50p standard finish AA coin, Enduro Motorcycle
2014 John McGuinness with 20 T.T. wins Note
obverse designer I. Rank-Broadley (IRB)
T.T. logo noted
Circulating Commemorative (AA) issue
2014 TT 50p standard finish AA coin, John McGuinness with 20 T.T. wins
2015 T.T. the legends Note
TT logo noted
New theme called T.T. the Legends
obverse designer I. Rank-Broadley (IRB)
Circulating Commemorative (AA) issue
the last one bearing the 4th portrait of Q.E on IOM commemorative coinage
2015 TT 50p diamond finish ND coin, T.T. the legends
2015 TT 50p standard finish AA coin, T.T. the legends
2015 TT 50p standard finish AB coin, T.T. the legends
2016 T.T. the legends Note
T.T. logo noted.
The New portrait made by PM in place, echoing UK coinage changing.
PM is beneath bust back on obverse.
Circulating commemorative (AA) issue
The last one in series and like the last one of Xmas
2016 TT 50p standard finish AA coin, T.T. the legends
At this point, you have seen IOM T.T. 50p coins that all are on the market through picture by picture above. No any precious coins are covered here I am afraid. This is because there is no particular value you after only mintage number. Considering the fact that circulating coin is well in place and circulating commemorative coin follows suit for the TT series for the period of 1981 to 2016, it concludes that the AA die mark is a basic point for the 50p coins struck by the Pobjoy mint after permission of the IOM government from 1975 to 2016. Coins like no die mark (indirect) or a prooflike finish (direct) are more sought-after from the IOM. A 50p coin with NO die mark is the one from 1996, and a 50p coin with a particular die mark definitely goes for 1983 (AC). Yes, the two coins mentioned have great value contained but still undervalued.
Isle of Man Christmas 50p coin in CN from 1997 onwards
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In this part, we talk small-sized 50p coins mainly. It will cover 50p coins made from 1997 to 2016, and give you a picture of what are IOM Xmas 50p coins after this part. Bear in mind that the 2008 snowman either plain version or colour version excludes here.
2016, A New Year, A new story it begins here (I wrote this bit at the beginning of the year @ 01/2016). 2017, A New Year, a story will be repeated many times to new collectors, … (wrote @ 01/2017)
Then, 2016 it is the year that the marriage is untied up (@ 11/2016) between the two. How ironic it is. Also, it is the year that the last Christmas 50p coin is struck by the Mint.
1997 T.E. Brown, Manx poet Note
obverse designer R. Maklouf (the 3rd effigy of Q.E. II),
coin were struck as proof coins for this year apart from re-strike coins in 2000s.
only no die marks coins and ND for the 4th consecutive period.
18th in series.
1997 IOM Xmas 50p Diamond Finish coin with NO die marks below
1997 IOM Xmas 50p Diamond Finish coin with a low-striking quality made in 2000s below.
1998 Christmas Festive scene in the Victorian era Note
obverse designer IRB (the 4th effigy of Q.E. II),
only no die marks coins exist and ND for the 5th consecutive period.
19th in series.
1999 Christmas tree decorating Note
obverse designer IRB (the 4th effigy of Q.E. II),
AA, BB and ND die marks are noted this year.
20th in series.
1999 IOM Xmas 50p Diamond Finish coin with NO die marks below
1999 IOM Xmas 50p Diamond Finish coin with BB die marks from carded below
1999 IOM Xmas 50p Diamond Finish coin with BB die marks below
1999 IOM Xmas 50p Diamond Finish coin with AA die marks below
2000, Manx man, Dr. John Kelly whom translates the Bible into Manx Language Note
obverse designer IRB (the 4th effigy of Q.E. II).
BB & ND exist, and BB coin have two different grades, Grade I and II.
21st in series.
What would be first to say about this coin this year? Probably it is the mint mark. The PMM was struck on 50ps in 2000 instead PM normally. The first two of PMM stands for the pobjoy mint mark (i.e., PM) over the world, and the last two of PMM (i.e., twin “M”) is about to commemorate the Millennium in 2000 (i.e., Roman Numerals M=1000). Sometimes, we come across some privy/privy letter created by the mint. It is a way to look at how a private mint to record modern history. For instance, 1982 crib privy on 20ps for the birth of Prince Williams. Also it is the year that 20ps was introduced in circulation in the U.K..
From top panel in pictures, it is literally a diamond finish coin that should be struck for all collectors in the first place based on Tynwald’s consistency, and you have to say it’s BEAUTIFUL at first glance. However, if you take a little step back to look at the entire picture, you probably see it clearly — the owner of IOM Xmas 50p coin.
Middle panel. Eye appears is ok even with a better reflectivity. Lustrous can be seen. One significant fact on this that get your attention is a mark on the first small window from bottom on the left big window. The mark disappears after you find a diamond finish coin.
Down to bottom panel. Lustrous still can be seen and die marks left on obv.. This thing happens on 2007 as well. Interestingly, long (or short) die marks ONLY can be found on CURRENCY 50p coins.
2000 IOM Xmas 50p Diamond Finish coin with NO die marks below
2000 IOM Xmas 50p Diamond Finish coin with BB die marks below (Grade I, semi-PL)
2000 IOM Xmas 50p Diamond Finish coin with BB die marks below (Grade II, BU)
2001 Postman in the Victorian era Note
obverse designer IRB (the 4th effigy of Q.E. II).
BB & ND exist.
22nd in series.
2001 IOM Xmas 50p Diamond Finish coin with BB die marks below
2001 IOM Xmas 50p Diamond Finish coin with NO die marks below
2002 Dickens Scrooge Note
obverse designer IRB (the 4th effigy of Q.E. II).
BB and ND exist.
23rd in series.
2002 IOM Xmas 50p Diamond Finish coin with BB die marks below
2002 IOM Xmas 50p Diamond Finish coin with NO die marks below
2003 (& 2008) the Snowman and James
Before introducing them, let we have a little background first. In terms of diamond finish coins, you are able to find it out from T.T. buying guide with us. All colour-printed coins must be struck as diamond finish coins first and then paint colours on top. Each diamond finish coin must come with a certification (ie., coa) together. In terms of a cert, it is only a piece of paper without any protective techniques involved. But the cert for this year is totally different like the ones before or after. A diamond finish coin has “BB” die letters on reverse (and/or “neo-BB” which means no die letters) and is limited @ 30,000 yearly. The Mint claims 30,000 coins per year, and the mintage number is real and strictly limited. Where do colour-printed coins come from? They are out from a small fraction of 30,000 coins to be painted as colour-printed diamond finish coins. Alternatively, they could be another colour-printed coins version @ 30,000 coins but hard to be true. What If this idea is true??!! The thing will be a real pain for xmas coin collectors. However, who cares??? Business is business. Meanwhile, all diamond plain coins and diamond colour-printed coins are both sharing the same cert each year and no any difference you could tell. It looks like people are really making pains on themselves.
All colour-printed version coins
With regard to the above picture, it is really hard to say that it indicates the entire family members of the IOM xmas theme colour-printed version. Because the 2008 colour-printed Snowman did not count in it. (Why?!! You will have your own answer(s) after this chapter.) In my own eyes, it is a family picture.
In 2003, it came out with the famous story in Britain, the Snowman(TM) & James, to commemorative the 25th Anniversary of animation alive. We had to thank the very 1st mint master, Derek Pobjoy, founder of the mint, to let the story bear on 50ps FOREVER. And the mintage was strictly down to 10,000 (from previous 30,000 yearly). We assume that the batch of colour-printed coins is taken out from 10,000. If you do the math, this is the reason that makes the 2003 DIAMOND FINISH 50P COIN really hot and popular indeed in the United Kingdom.
But did you notice that a diamond plain coin and a colour-printed coin shares one cert at the same time. All colour-printed coins are possibly found from carded with coa (i.e., the mint). Some diamond plain coins are barely seen in decoration coin box (i.e., the mint). Some so-called diamond finish were sold by Benham first day coin covers (i.e., distributor). By the way, can you easily point out a standard finish coin between two diamond finish coins this year? Remember, they all have “BB” die letters on. However, the 2008 one came out with the exactly same story back to 2003 BUT without die letters, and was to celebrating the 30th Anni. of the story, and was limited at 30k as well. That is why people see the 2008 Snowman version alongside the 12-day of Christmas. Also, the 12-day was a uncompleted project. Did you ask yourself, this unusual one Why had it not seen in 2007 (or before 2008) or in 2009 (or after 2008)? Why two Xmas coins minted in 2008? Coincident, or people greedy??? In terms of consistency, the entire theme is broken up here in 2003, due to the 30th Anni. of Snowman exists (2008) and the uncompleted project of the 12-day of Christmas (2005 to 2010).
Note
obverse designer IRB (the 4th effigy of Q.E. II).
the 25th. Anniversary of animation alive in the U.K. (since 1978).
24th in series.
2003 IOM Xmas 50p Diamond Finish colour-printed coin with BB die marks below
2003 IOM Xmas 50p Diamond Finish coin with BB die marks below
2004 The Laxey Water Wheel
The Laxey water wheel is historic site on the island. The first showing of the wheel was in 1971 on 5p Manx coinage and disappeared after 1979. To commemorative the 150th anniversary of the water wheel, it comes out again this year on 50p Manx coinage and £5 pound coins as well. (5p x10 = 50p, then 50p x10 = 500p = £5. Coincident??)
If you are lucky, you may have a chance to meet a manx cat (or a black cat) outside the gate after traveling long way up by tram. It does not make sense such the scene found on a Xmas theme coin collection series. The Laxey water wheel was on 5p coin. It is a little bit far away out of the Xmas theme idea. Also, the BA die marks come out again! Something inside of the theme it has slowly gone just like the little manx cat quickly disappears a year after.
Note
Obverse designer IRB (the 4th effigy of Q.E. II).
AA, BA & ND have many differences in detail. BA noted ONLY on Diamond Finish coins.
Coins with AA die marks do NOT have mirrored-like field. One case (exactly same) was noted back to 1988 first appearance, but 1988 BA was ONLY appeared on standard finish coins.
Beyond this point, a) the manx cat disappears. b) the IOM Xmas 50p coin is highly likely heading to a era of commercialisation.
Most importantly, dual dates noted. This means 2004 was noted on obverse and reverse. Very rare to see this.
25th in series.
2004 IOM Xmas 50p Diamond Finish coin with BA die marks below
2004 IOM Xmas 50p Diamond Finish coin with NO die marks below
2004 IOM Xmas 50p standard Finish coin with AA die marks below
2005 One partridge in a pear tree
“The Christian tradition of celebrating the Twelve days of Christmas, starting on the 25th December through the morning of Epiphany on 6th January, is based on a sequence of verses in the Holy Bible (Matthew 2: 1-12) and the belief that the Three Kings took 12 days to travel to Bethlehem after first seeing the Jesus Star.”
It is really amazing to see such wonderfully and highly related with the Bible story on 50ps, featuring a partridge in a pear tree. It is BACK on tradition again. But very sadly, the mission is uncompleted (i.e., it was supposed to be having twelve coins added up into the entire series instead the first six coins ONLY were struck). If you intend to knock together a good story about the Holy Bible on 50ps. I personally suggest that you may need to come across collecting 50ps either Isle of Man or Gibraltar. First, the mint that minted coins for both places was the Pobjoy mint. They invented the idea of “Xmas 50ps”. So they put this idea on the coinages of Isle of Man, Tonga and Gibraltar. Due to some reasons unknown, The Mint was no longer to strike coins on behalf of the government of Gibraltar after 2003. So this incident broke the whole idea of the Mint. For instance, 1988 Gibraltar Xmas 50p, Three Wise Men; 1990 Gibraltar Xmas, the birth of Jesus with the Star; 1991 IOM Xmas 50p, Nativity Scene The Birth of Jesus; 19993 IOM Xmas, Nativity Scene The Birth of Jesus; 2000 Gibraltar Xmas, Maria and Baby Jesus and Angel; 2002 Gibraltar Xmas, Shepherds; 2005 to 2010 IOM Xmas, the 12 days of Christmas; 2013 IOM Xmas Angel, and so forth. But on the other hand, it could interpret, like the Mint was under “some thing” promoting Gibraltar on coins. Secondly, let all people on earth know that the Isle of Man is famous by its coinage again which means absolutely no doubt about it, because the Isle of Man government assigned correct right to the Pobjoy mint. Also it can see the isle of man coins are heading to a commercial way. Good sign for dealers and bad news to collectors.
To be very clear here I am not a fan of neither the Pobjoy mint nor the Royal mint. But I only was dazzled by its idea & innovation on coins struck by the Pobjoy mint. Also, the two key facts lead the Pobjoy mint two more steps ahead the Royal Mint. But the Britain modern coins market reshuffled in 2016. Could you ask a question “What does the Royal Mint have apart from history and reputation in this industry?”
Note
obverse designer IRB (the 4th effigy of Q.E. II),
AA die letters Diamond Finish 50ps ONLY in market,
AA die letters Colour-printed 50ps ONLY.
26th in series.
2005 IOM Xmas 50p Diamond Finish coloured-print coin with AA die marks below
2005 IOM Xmas 50p Diamond Finish coin with AA die marks below
2006 Two Turtle Doves Note
obverse designer IRB (the 4th effigy of Q.E. II),
AA die letters and NO die letters diamond finish 50ps found in the market.
27th in series.
2006 IOM Xmas 50p Diamond Finish coloured-print coin with AA die marks below
2006 IOM Xmas 50p Diamond Finish coin with NO die marks below
2006 IOM Xmas 50p Diamond Finish coin with AA die marks below
2007 Three French Hens
Here, it is a way to give you more details in dept on a currency 50p coin and a diamond finish 50p coin. The significant difference between the currency and the diamond coins is all about the year on obverse. First, it will be coloured version, and then follows up by non-coloured coins.
Note
obverse designer IRB (the 4th effigy of Q.E. II),
AA die letters and NO die letters for plain and colour-printed 50p coins,
AA die letter coins noted die marks left on obverse.
28th in series.
2007 IOM Xmas 50p Diamond Finish coloured-print coin with NO die marks below
2007 IOM Xmas 50p Diamond Finish coin with NO die marks below
2007 IOM Xmas 50p standard Finish coin with AA die marks below
2008 Four calling birds Note
obverse designer IRB (the 4th effigy of Q.E. II)
Snowman and James exists as well as plain and colour-printed version
29th in series.
2008 IOM Xmas 50p Diamond Finish coloured-print coin with NO die marks below
2008 IOM Xmas 50p Diamond Finish coin with NO die marks but in different finish below
2009 Five gold rings Note
obverse designer IRB (the 4th effigy of Q.E. II)
30th in series.
2009 IOM Xmas 50p Diamond Finish coloured-print coin with NO die marks below
2009 IOM Xmas 50p Diamond Finish coin with NO die marks below
2010 Six Geese A-Laying Note
obverse designer IRB (the 4th effigy of Q.E. II).
1/2 of a 12-day of Christmas.
This year the Tower mint struck “Partridge in a Pear tree” to back the Pobjoy mint. (Coins talk.)
31st in series.
2010 IOM Xmas 50p Diamond Finish coloured-print coin with NO die marks below
2010 IOM Xmas 50p Diamond Finish coin with NO die marks below
2010 IOM Xmas 50p Diamond Finish coin with AA die marks below
2011 Father Christmas
First thing is first. It is really amazing when something it comes back after disappearing a long long time. The Mint is now commemorating tradition on 50p coins. Christmas tradition is BACK with Father Christmas on its reverse.
It can be found that ‘p’ after its denomination in period 2011 to period 2014. It is very significant change of the coinage of Isle of Man. Meanwhile, you probably see from the currency type 50p coin is very low on its quality but still seen lustrous. It can be concluded that from the point of view of quality the mint has already given up to mint Xmas series 50p coins. It is worth ponding and asking “Why did they add ‘P’ next to denomination in 2011 “. Also, some of neo-diamond finish 50ps coins have flaws on mirrored-field.
Note
obverse designer IRB (the 4th effigy of Q.E. II),
Add “p” after denomination since 2011 (i.e., Echo UK coinage change).
currency, diamond finish and colour-printed diamond finish coins noted onwards.
32nd in series.
2011 IOM Xmas 50p Diamond Finish coloured-print coin with NO die marks below
2011 IOM Xmas 50p Diamond Finish coin with NO die marks below
2011 IOM Xmas 50p standard finish coin with AA die marks below
2012 Nativity Scene Angel
Not too many of Nativity Scene was struck on Xmas 50ps, and it was only a few in the whole series, in 1991, 1993 & 2012 respectively.
Note
obverse designer IRB (the 4th effigy of Q.E. II).
33rd in series.
2012 IOM Xmas 50p Diamond Finish coloured-print coin with NO die marks below
2012 IOM Xmas 50p Diamond Finish coin with NO die marks below
2012 IOM Xmas 50p standard finish coin with AA die marks below
2013 Christmas Wreath & Candy
Back to tradition, it has been long long time to wait. Such great colours, green and red always let people remember the best time in life–Christmas time, waiting to open gift from gift socks, decorating Christmas tree at home etc.
Note
obverse designer IRB (the 4th effigy of Q.E. II)
34th in series
2013 IOM Xmas 50p Diamond Finish coloured-print coin with NO die marks below
2013 IOM Xmas 50p Diamond Finish coin with NO die marks below
2013 IOM Xmas 50p standard finish coin with AA die marks below
2014 Snowman & the snowdog and Billy
The last coin in this series, it may let any coin collectors feel a bit sadness. This year, colour-printed, diamond finish and standard finish 50ps exist in the market. Standard finish 50p coins are noted “AA” and lustrous, and diamond finish without any die letters.
Note
obverse designer IRB (the 4th effigy of Q.E. II).
35th in series.
2014 IOM Xmas 50p Diamond Finish coloured-print coin with NO die marks below
2014 IOM Xmas 50p Diamond Finish coin with NO die marks below
2014 IOM Xmas 50p standard finish coin with NO die marks below
2015, NO Xmas 50p Coins EXIST ! ! !
Obviously, there is no any IOM Xmas 50p coin exist this year. But I use a medallion instead here. The quality is so-called “Pobjoy Finish” from so-called “Diamond Finish”. The medal quality is prooflike at least. If you look at coins they made on behalf of the Tynwald after 2000 or 2004, the less Diamond Finish you see. The 50 years it is more likely to celebrate the long relationship between the Tynwald and the Pobjoy mint. But, the divorce between the two can not be avoided in 2017!
2015, it is the Pobjoy mint the 50th Anniversary minting coins from 1965 to 2015
2016 Christmas Pudding
After a year long waited since 2015 without any info telling when would be a 2016 version out, finally, the IoM post office announces that the latest IOM Xmas 50p coin will be back and presenting in 2016. 2016, it is a sorb year to the Mint. 2016 it the year that the Tynwald treasure only allowed to make the first batch (ie., 15,000 coins) so this permission made a miracle story only 750 diamond finish CN coins. Because of this information, so I am able to decipher more info on the Xmas series coin. 2016, it is going to say farewell to the Mint from the older partner, Tynwald. But, the mint has opened up a door for the Tower mint already, just like they did the same case in 2003/04 passing the handover of Gibraltar coinages to the Tower mint.
Note
New Pobjoy Mint obverse, echoing UK changing new Q.E.II portrait in 2015.
Very low striking quality on all three types of coins.
IOM Post Office is in charge of selling IOM coins including 2016 Xmas 50p coins.
IOM Post Office announces that only 750 diamond finish Xmas 50p coins in card, and 15,000 coins in total.
ND(5%) < BA(20%) < AA(75%), this year BA is echoing 1987 and 2004 BAs.
Inconsistency was noted on IOM Xmas 50p coins between 2014 and 2015.
The 'p' after denomination disappears since 2011, it echoes the first IOM Xmas 50p coin in 1980.
36th in series.
2016 IOM Xmas 50p diamond finish coin with NO die marks below
2016 IOM Xmas 50p standard finish coin with BA die marks below
2016 IOM Xmas 50p diamond finish coin with AA die marks below
Isle of Man Christmas 50p coin in CN from 1986 to 1996
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1986, a Horse-drawn Tram Note
Obv. designer Raphael Maklouf from the RM.
a Manx cat
7th in series.
1986 IOM Xmas 50p Diamond finish coin with BB die mark
1987, Bus Note
Obv. designer Raphael Maklouf from the RM.
a Manx cat facing back (echoing the 2004 Manx cat).
8th in series.
1987 IOM Xmas 50p Diamond finish coin with BB die mark
1988, Motor bike Note
Obv. designer Raphael Maklouf from the RM.
a Manx cat.
9th in series.
BA die marks noted on standard finish coins. Die marks have BB-BA-AA.
IOM coinage change reverse’s design from Viking full-sail boat to Computer this year. IOM Viking Boats out of regular coinage commencing on this year.
Also under permission of the government of Gibraltar to mint Xmas 50p Coins this year 3 wise men.
1989, A Tram at Laxey Station Note
Obv. designer Raphael Maklouf from the RM.
a Manx cat
10th in series.
1989 IOM Xmas 50p Diamond finish coin with BB die mark
1990, Lady of Manx Ferry Note
Obv. designer Raphael Maklouf from the RM.
a Manx cat.
a man-made error noted.
11th in series.
1990 IOM Xmas 50p Diamond finish coin with BB die mark
1991, The birth place of Jesus-Nativity Scene Note
Obv. designer Raphael Maklouf from the RM.
The first highly related with the Xmas theme.
12th in series.
1991 IOM Xmas 50p Diamond finish coin with BB die mark
This coin is highly related to the subject of Christmas on IOM 50ps first time. According to Gregory Cameron (the designer of the last “Round Pound”), “while Christmas is based on a Christian story it is a festival for everyone; a time when we celebrate the affinity and closeness in our own families and beyond, and wish goodwill to all people”.
1992, Newspaper boy Note
Obv. designer Raphael Maklouf from the RM.
a Manx cat
13th in series.
1992 IOM Xmas 50p Diamond finish coin with BB die mark
1993, Framed the birth of Jesus-Nativity Scene Note
Obv. designer Raphael Maklouf from the RM.
14th in series.
1993 IOM Xmas 50p Diamond finish coin with BB die mark
1994, Wren Hunting Note
Obv. designer Raphael Maklouf from the RM.
a Manx cat.
No diemarks exists since BA appeared.
15th in series.
1994 IOM Xmas 50p Diamond finish coin with ND die mark (a very first time)
1995, Children sledding Note
Obv. designer Raphael Maklouf from the RM.
a Manx cat
No diemarks for the 2nd consecutive period.
16th in series.
1995 IOM Xmas 50p Diamond finish coin with NO die mark
1996, Children snowballs fighting Note
Obv. designer Raphael Maklouf from the RM.
a Manx cat
No diemarks for the 3rd consecutive period.
17th in series.
1996 IOM Xmas 50p Diamond finish coin with NO die mark
In brief, when you look at each coin back for 1980 to 1996, you find that each coin is a vivid picture with Prooflike or beyond quality. Two coins are related with the topic of Xmas theme, and the rest of them is introducing IOM as well as the Pobjoy Mint itself. No doubt that the Mint is the great solo minter during this period and is keen to develop & issue competitive numismatic products to collector on behalf Tynwald.
Isle of Man Christmas 50p coin in CN from 1981 to 1985
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1981, Harbor and Nikki Boat Note
Obv. designer Arnold Machin from the RM.
a Manx cat, the first time appearance, is noted.
BB and BC die letters both exist.
2nd in series.
World Exclusive 1981 Christmas Double Crown. On it reverse face, the Isle of Man legal tender 1981 Christmas Double Crown illustrates a traditional Manx Yuletide custom, practiced by the fishermen of Peel. This 19th century scene also pays tribute to the fact that 1981, the centenary of National Mission to Deep Sea Fishermen, has been designated Fishermen’s Year. The design shows Peel Harbour at the burn of the century; the hills to the left and St. German’s Cathedral on the right. The boats are Manx ‘Nickeys’ under full sail, leaving harbor on St. Stephen’s Day – the day after Christmas. Their mastheads are decorated with garlands of evergreens and ribbons – a time-honoured Manx Yuletide tradition. The figures in the foreground on the quay are dress in late 19th century costume. To the right of the numerals can be seen a tail-less Manx cat. The design has been created by Leslie Linday, Cert.R.A.S.. The obverse face bears the official coinage portrait of Her Majesty the Queen by Arnold Machin, R.A..
1982, Carollers Note
Obv. designer Arnold Machin from the RM.
a Manx cat is noted.
3rd in series.
The Isle of Man’s Third Christmas Double Crown. Carols were a feature of Christmas celebrations as early as the 15th century, and the Yuletide custom of ‘wassailing’ is probably as old. Caroling has been as popular in Man over the centuries as in any other part of the British Isles, and at no time more so than during Queen Victoria’s reign. It is therefore appropriate that the Isle of Man’s 1982 Christmas coin – on its reverse face – should depict a group of Victorian carolers. They are portrayed before a Christmas tree against the backdrop of Castle Rushen in the former capital of the island. The design has benn created by Leslie Linday, Cert. R.A.S.. The obverse face bears the official coinage portrait of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, sculpted by Arnold Machin, R.A..
1983, Motor–Ford Model T driving right Note
Obv. designer Arnold Machin from the RM.
a Manx cat is noted.
The 75th Anniversary of Ford Model T.
4th in series.
A very special version exists as stated on COA!
75th Anniversary, Ford Model T (1908-1983)
The design depicts The town of Ramsey, and the Ford Model T driving right.
Ford Motor Company (Ford, established 1903 in USA), Ford Motor Company Limited, a subsidiary of Ford.
Ford Motor Company (England) Limited was established in England in 1909, purchased by Ford Motor Company Limited, incorporated in 1928.
Ford Motor Company Limited adopted the name of Ford of Britain in 1960. (see below a special carded xmas 50p coin).
Ford Model T, the first affordable automobile. Not only showing the success of Ford but also depicting a powerful symbol of the modernisation of America’s age.
The Isle of Man ‘s Fourth Christmas Double Crown. For the reverse of the 1983 Isle of Man Christmas Double Crown the period is the 1920’s and the scene is the town of Ramsey on the island’s north east coast. Christmas shoppers are portrayed in the dress of the period, with Ramsey market in the background. In the foreground is a Ford car. Scampering our of harm’s way, to the right of the figure ‘50’, is a tailless Manx cat whose lack of posterior appendage appears to place no limit on his agility! The design has been created by Leslie Linday, Cert.R.A.S.. The obverse face bears the official coinage portrait of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, sculpted by Arnold Machin, R.A..
1984, Trains Note
Obv. designer Arnold Machin from the RM.
5th in series.
1984 IOM Xmas 50p Diamond finish coin with BB die marks
1985, Aeroplanes Note
Obv. designer Raphael Maklouf from the RM.
6th in series.
1985 IOM Xmas 50p Diamond finish coin with BB die marks
Isle of Man Christmas Fifty Pence (50p) coin in 1980 and all CN coin certs
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This entire chapter, named Part I, will only go through IOM Xmas Fifty pence diamond finish coins in base metal from 1980 to 2016 in 4 segments, namely 1/4, 2/4, 3/4 and 4/4, illustrated picture by picture. Hopeful, it gives you useful information how to grow your collection. But, here, it is all about story behind 1980 ones and this is our priority to introduce first.
The Pobjoy Mint (hereafter the Mint) invented and produced Christmas theme coins via Manx coinage on behalf of the government of the Isle of Man (hereafter Tynwald) in 1980. An issue limit was set up at 30,000 coins per year. This means the Mint could not produce in excess of 30,000 coins (i.e., upper limit) but as many as possible close to 30,000 coins (i.e., depends on demand). Also, the Mint claim that they have only had ability to produce proof decimal coins in 1980 onwards.
A significance point found on IOM 50ps over years is that the Mint only had rights (or under permissions) to partially mint coins from 1972 to 1975 on behalf of Tynwald. Because the reverse and obverse sides from these period were created by the Mint that exactly matched the Royal Mint 1971 version. Moreover, in 2016, the new sides of reverse and obverse were totally designed by the Mint showing on the T.T. theme and the Xmas series. Extra info: it is reported that Mr Derek Pobjoy, founder of the Pobjoy mint, submitted a “workable” proposal to Tynwald in 1972. This is how the Mint got them the first contract from the government of the Isle of Man. Also, you may notice that 1972 IOM 25p crown-sized coins were minted by the Royal Canadian Mint (RCM). All silver 25p crown-sized coins were only distributed by Spink whom had to set up a special office on the island. Info are gathered cross panels (i.e., viking boat 50ps, IOM TT 50ps etc). Anyway, it is a bit far away off the main topic, probably let we put focus on IOM Xmas theme coins here.
Generally speaking, reverse designs of the Xmas 50p diamond finish (hereafter DF) coin in CN from 1980 to 1999 are a vivid picture that shows the very traditional style of IOM daily life (i.e., Yuletide Manx). The life is influenced by the Victorian era. Each year, a Xmas DF coin tells you a story that is absolutely different as before. In the following parts, you are able to see the world first Xmas Fifty pence coin, and then all Xmas 50p coins are illustrated year by year. Coin techs are 30.00mm in diameter and 13.50g in weight, and are most likely a proof finish standard with the 2nd and/or 3rd and/or 4th effigy of Q.E. II during the period of 1980 to 1999.
Before we down to Part I, let we talk a little bit on certs from 1980 to 2016. In the mean time, this talk will cover the mint’s logos from 1965 to present.
In pictures below, named A(a), B(b), C(c), D(d) E(e), F(f) & G(g), show the mint’s logo over the course of time, and different signatures from the treasurer of IOM (i.e., chief financial officer) in different years. Also, only four coas are list here, but it covers from 1980 to 2014.
Picture A(a) & B(b), the 1st mint logo in use from 1965 to 1996. (Picture A(a) is only for 1980 Xmas 50p MULE coin, Picture B(b) for 1984 to 1996 Xmas 50p coins. Note 1981/82/83 are big size ones, not showing within this case.)
Note: Picture A(a) shows signature of William Dawson (1980–1991) in blue version and noted green version as well, the then Manx Government Treasurer. In 1986, Department of the Treasury was formed after abolishment of the Finance Board, and was as part of reorganisation of the Isle of Man Government on a ministerial basis. Picture B(b) is signature of John Alfred Cashen (OBE) (1991 – 2001), then the Chief Financial Officer (CFO) of the Isle of Man Treasury. A significant difference on the Arms, Crest and Badge between the two coas.
Picture C(c), the 2nd mint logo in use from 1997 to 2007. Note the Mint moved to new premises in 1997. (Picture C(c) for 1997 to 2007 Xmas 50p coins) & Picture D(d), the 3rd mint logo in use from 2008 onwards to date.
Note: Picture C(c), signature of Paul Mark Shimmin (MBE), then the Chief Financial Officer of the Isle of Man Treasury. Picture D(d), signature of Dr. Malcolm Couch, then the Chief Financial Officer of the Isle of Man Treasury. For the period of Jul 2015 to Dec 2016, Sheila Lowe*, the New Chief Financial Officer of the Isle of Man Treasury. In theory and logic, coas should have been followed up in time order above especially by chief financial officer’s signature, but sadly in reality, it is really hard to follow. Here it shows an idea what IOM Xmas 50p coin certs really are.
Pictures E(e) & F(f) & G(g)
Note only 1981 E(e) & 1982 F(f) & 1983 G(g) are A5-sized COA.
Part I
1980, Stagecoach Note
Obverse designer Arnold Machin from the RM.
Die mark BC was declared by the PM for Diamond Finish and “the first Xmas coin in the world”. BC highly and possibly stands for Before Christ on 50p diamond finish coins minted in 1980 (supporting evidence PMM on 50p coins in 2000, M = 1000 years).
1st in series.
At the beginning of Part I, it generally introduces 1980 IOM Xmas 50p Diamond Finish coins. Yes, a few of them in different variants existed. And then it slowly decomposes them into 1980 Xmas variations due to the existence of many variants and a very interesting story behind.
The Mint claimed that they had updated new machinery in 1980 so that proof/prooflike coins and sets were minted and introduced that year onwards on social platforms. This solid information could confirm that 10 out of 10 the Mint were in control of designing and minting Manx coinages (i.e., obverse and reverse), and the length of a contract was “long enough”.
1980 IOM Xmas 50p Diamond Finish coin in pictures as follows,
1980(1) IOM Xmas Diamond Finish 50p Coin with BC die marks (so-called Diamond Finish, or PL)
1980(2) IOM Xmas Diamond Finish 50p Coin with BD die marks (PF)
1980(3) IOM Xmas Diamond Finish 50p Coin with BE die marks (PF)
1980(4) IOM Xmas Diamond Finish 50p Coin with BF die marks (carrying MULE coins reverse, PF)
There is a significant difference on BF coins. The difference on reverses between ordinary ones (for instance BC 1980(1)) and this one (below BF 1980(4.1)) is located at an area between people waving towards the boat & under the boat. The difference is noted on MULE coins as well. BF coins and BF Mule coins have the difference in common. If you get a very closer look at BF coins below, this batch of coins are PF grade coins. Based on this finding, it says that the Mint noticed the MULE error and quickly changed them to correct the obverse, but did not notice this difference. Also, it could be other way around. Assumably the coin’s reverse was the original version.
1980(4.1) IOM Xmas Diamond Finish 50p Coin with BF die marks (carrying MULE coins reverse, PF)
Also, if you look at the Mule 50p coins further, there are at least two different the obverses. This means, (assumption) they were minting xmas theme 50p coins for 1980, and they had to break the production chain to mint coins like AC/D for the Viking show in NY due to the unexpected attendance of the show in NY in 1980. (The Mint normally uses one letter to present precious metals like B(Pt), C(Au) and D/E/F(Ag), and two letters for basic metal like CN(AA etc). From here, you clearly see that a) the Mint will not do anythings on precious metals, b) AA/AB batch codes existed in 1979 for the purpose of regular coinage, so BB/BC/… on IOM 50p coins are made for serious collectors. BB/BC/… comes from a loop based on B with one more letter from the precious metals.) At this point, it concludes that the attendance of the Viking show in NY was not in their plan and they were under lot of pressures to do so.
Supporting evidence for above. You are able to see two very different die marks in 1980, BF come from 1980 Xmas theme and DD come from 1980 Viking the boats theme. Based on info that the PM have had purchases on machinery in early 1980s. Therefore, BF and DD are correlated each other somehow. Also, from this two die marks, you can see how the Mint grows up. Interestingly, the BF coin below is a coin in proof grade.
1980(4.2) IOM Xmas Diamond Finish 50p Coin with BF die marks (MULE coin, PL, dull version*)
1980(4.3) IOM Xmas Diamond Finish 50p Coin with BF die marks (MULE coin, PL, shiny version*)
*Note: Versions of Dull & Shiny please refers 1987 Viking boat 50p dull and shiny version.
Here it shows the Mule 50p coins, “stateless”, ever in British coinage history above. Seen from the pictures, 1980 IOM Xmas 50p Diamond Finish Coins with BF die marks were NGC slabbed, which are both a MULE coin. More significant about them it is “STATELESS”. Reference books say that only a few coins exist. The obverses have many different grade types at least two. Note: the obverse designer was Arnold Machin from the RM.
It is very interesting to talk about the mule coins. Because the Mint did make this stateless coin either unintentionally or intentionally. However, it is understandable that we are all human being that make errors. Sadly, the Mint will never admit this type of error made publicly. So what really did happen in 1980 to the Mint? Secondly, the Mint were called for entering the Viking Exhibition show in New York with the coins minted in 1979 but need 1980 on obverse. Thirdly, all obverses were changing legend to Isle of Man Elizabeth II from Elizabeth the Second this year. Do not forget that the Mint claimed they had had new machinery in 1980. Meanwhile, if you ponder the section below, you will have your own answers on mule coins and will see how careless they were under huge pressure. From the perspective of the Mint, they welcome this glory in 5 year time (ie., 1975 to 1980). This shows how hard works they did. Therefore, it is worth spending time on talking the mule coins, and is a firm fact that never can be changed on coins.
1980(5) IOM Xmas 50p Diamond Finish Coin with BB die letters (PF)
1980(5.1) IOM Xmas 50p Diamond Finish (really???) Coin with BB die letters (PL)
To sum up briefly, this part is an extra part for the purpose of illustrating these types of strange BB-die-letter coins above and a comparison each other. Apparently, you now have seen many different finish 1980 Xmas 50p coins. So, is the low grade BB(5.1) die letter coin a diamond finish coin or not? Then you will have your own decision in your mind. Obviously, at a first glance it has low minting quality in contrast with BC(1)/BD(2)/BE(3)/BF(4)/BF(4.1, 4.2) (mule)/BB(5) die letter coins, because of No Mirrored-like Field.
Additional, it shows below a Gold proof version of the very 1st gold 50p of this series,
1980(x) IOM Xmas 50p Proof Gold Coin Slabbed by NGC
Credit: NGC database.
[Note]:
This year, it has A, B, D and E under the Prefix A, and B, C, D, E and F under the Prefix B. Meanwhile, B, D and E is overlapped between the Prefix A and B. As mentioned before, the sequence C will not appear at the same time between the Prefix A and the Prefix B (support evidence 1982 AC and the babycrib privy). The single die letter like D and E is used to mint coins in silver this year. The sequence E comes from the last sequence of the Prefix A, but D from the Prefix B is not. Normally, D, E and F are used to mint coins in silver, B for platinum proof and C for gold proof. The D and E die letter is for silver proof (support evidence 1980 Xmas 50p proof coin in silver). The F die letter was first time used on 1979 Viking boat 50p coins in silver BU. The BF die letters on Xmas 50p coins in base metal are really containing important information internally and somehow making the mule coins more valuable.
First of all, this chapter is all about Isle of Man Viking Boat/Longboat heptagon 50p coins in 1979 including 1980. Metals will come across between copper-nickel (i.e., CN) and silver (i.e., AG) at the same time. Secondly, more importantly, it is a way to explore 50p coins struck by the Pobjoy mint (hereafter, the Mint) in 1979 ONLY to celebrate the Viking event and the Royal Visit IOM as well. The Pobjoy Mint is a limited company registered in England and Wales, and their mint mark is the capital letters of PM. They first introduced so-called the batch codes (i.e., AA/AB/…) in 1978. The batch codes are somehow, in a way, consistent of a key information to transiting a complex picture of the viking boat in full-sail 50p coins in 1979 & 1980. However, on the other hands, the codes show off how much effort(s) the Mint used to build up IOM coinage in later 1970s.
In order to understand or have a clear picture of 1979 IOM Viking Boat 50p coins, we start them off from 1979 Viking Long Boat 50p silver proof coin where comes from year silver proof set, because this one is a very good starting point to be mentioned here. Therefore, you are able to see all 1979 50p silver proof coins as follows:
Viking Long-boat over the island 50p Coin with t privy (x1 PF, year proof set)*,
Viking Boat voyage 50p coin with D batch code (x2 PFs, individual)*,
Viking Boat voyage 50p coin with E batch code (x1 PF, individual)*,
Viking Boat voyage 50p coin with F batch code (x1 PF + x1 BU, individual)*,
Viking Boat voyage 50p coin with D batch code in 1980 (x1 PF, individual, very special one)*.
(Note*: PF stands for proof, BU= brilliant uncirculated. The year set means the place the coin comes from. Individual means the coin presents in a gift/collector box.)
Bearing in mind that,
a). if you are very clear above 50p silver coins, you may continue to read information below. Or
b). if you are very familiar with all 50p coins on CN, we hope it may give you more extra info to amend your own picture on all 50p coins in 1979.
1. Viking Long-boat 50p Coin over the island with the t privy (PF, year proof set)
From 1976 to 1979, all reverses are Viking the Long-boat with Odin’s Raven over the island. Both obverse and reverse sides are noted the Mint mark (PM) from 1977 to 1979. Interestingly, the double mint mark on a coin has changed after the t privy appeared in 1979, instead one-side with the mint mark (i.e., “obverse”, it normally is underneath the bust) and another side with a theme (i.e., “reverse”) plus a two-digit batch code (i.e., a letter for precious metals, two letters for base metals). Also, the batch code was first introduced in 1978. Variation(s) can be seen in 2 & 3 below.
Note:
IOM coinages in transit–a), banknotes 50p stop circulating after 1979. These require enormous 50p coins in place; b), the reverse’s design is no longer over the island, and become a art related design; c), the design transfers to Millennium voyage from Odin’s raven in 1979, and most importantly it is one year reverse only.
Viking Long-boat 50p silver proof coin over the island with the t privy below.
1.1 Currency coins (a set of 4 coins exclusive has two designs at the same time with and/or without the privy t)
—01 AA(t) (i.e., the AA production batch codes with the privy t and PM both sides at the same time).
—02 AB(t) (i.e., the AB production batch codes with the privy t and PM both sides at the same time).
In brief, the privy t cancels the PM mint mark on reverse in pictures shown in 1.1.01 and 1.1.02,
and,
The privy t is moving on sail instead Odin’s Raven,
and,
The privy t existence shows the existence of the production codes AA/AB as well.
—03 AA (the AA production batch codes with Manx Millennium Voyage and PM on obverse only, and the privy t has gone).
—04 AB (the AB production batch codes with Manx Millennium Voyage and PM on obverse only, and the privy t has gone).
In brief, the privy t is on sail Manx Millennium Voyage surrounding in pictures shown in 1.1.03 and 1.1.04,
and,
The new design matches replica men shipped down from Norway in July 1979,
and,
The production codes AA/AB are in place,
and,
The new designed Viking 50p coins were used to commemorate Q.E. II Royal visit IOM 1979.
—05 AA (UNC From square box)
—06 AB (UNC From square box)
In brief, pictures shown in 1.1.05 and 1.1.06 indicate that the coins have better quality and details.
To sum up for this part, the production batch codes were AA(t), AA, AB(t) and AB only upon with two different reverse’s designs on 50p CN coins. But one variety only was in file on 50p silver coins (see Category I). First, the batch codes are letters from A to B. But it understands a simple metric used (2×2) based on a coin has two sides. The batch code contains a lot of information but we do not know them without help from the mint. Secondly, the object on the longboat in full-sail was one of the Odin’s Ravens. However, due to the fact of Viking the Millennium, Viking the boat in full-sail was being changed to Millennium Voyage specially designed for Tynwald Millennium in 1979. Also, Viking the boat voyage was one year type only design in Viking boats series. Finally, the t privy is also a signal to tell collectors that the privy has a very important meaning this year. Sadly, there is no a place could confirm it.
In Norse mythology, Huginn (from Old Norse “thought”) and Muninn (Old Norse “desire” or “memory” or “mind”) are a pair of ravens that fly all over the world, Midgard, and bring information to the God, Odin. Apparently, only one raven was found on the reverse design from 1976 to 1979 (with t).
2. Viking Boat 50p Silver Proof Coin associated with D & F batch codes
This type of coin is named as a Tynwald set which echoes silver coin in part 1 above. It has two variants in terms of metal in this part, sterling silver coin (see 2.1 and 2.2) and copper-nickel (CN) coin (see 2.3). A total number of 100k silver coins were minted (i.e., 100k = 30k (from D batch below) + 70k (from F batch below)). This 100k means a lot either to Tynwald or the Mint itself. Note: 1K = Millennium; 70k = 50k (1979 CN edges-inscribed coins in green boxes) + 20K (1980 CN edges-inscribed coins in folder, library finish).
2.1 D batch code without edge inscription silver (PF, individual) Note:
PF in grade @ an issue limit of 30,000 coins.
Edges NO inscription.
This is for non-inscription proof.
2.2 F batch code without edge inscription silver (BU, individual) Note:
BU in grade @ an issue limit of 70,000 coins.
Frosted mirrored-field on rev. & obv..
But edges WITHOUT inscription.
This cert is for F non-inscription BU.
2.3 Fifty pence coin in copper-nickel
I. Day of Tynwald
—01a Edge with lettering, AA, specially for Tynwald Millennium Voyage in 1979, from a green box (limited @ 50k, COA says)
—01b Edge with lettering, AA, specially for Tynwald Millennium Voyage in 1979, from a green box (limited @ 50k, COA says)
II. Day of Tynwald
—02a Edge no inscription, AB, specially for Tynwald Millennium Voyage in 1979, from a green box (limited @ 100k, COA says)
—02b Edge no inscription, AB, a Prooflike finish, specially for Tynwald Millennium Voyage in 1979, from a green box (limited @ 100k, COA says)
III. Day of Tynwald
—03a Edge no inscription, AC, a plain Satin finish, specially for Tynwald Millennium Voyage in 1979, from a green box (limited @ 100k, COA says)
—03b Edge with lettering, AC, a special one in 1980, specially for attending the NY Viking show in 1980, from a grey folder (limited @ 20k, COA says)
IV. Day of Tynwald
—04a Edge with lettering, AD, specially for Tynwald Millennium Voyage in 1979, from a green box (limited @ 50k, COA says)
—04b Edge with lettering, AD, specially for Tynwald Millennium Voyage in 1979, from a green box (limited @ 50k, COA says)
Fifty pence coins in copper-nickel above, (mainly come from square boxes and/or green (or black) presentation boxes mean that the coins), have very much different quality in grade. Two combinations we have talked here between part I and part II. One, the privy t with AA (from circulation) + the privy t with AB (from circulation) + AA (from circulation) + AB (from circulation) = 4 as a set. Two, AA (from I 01a & 01b above) + AB (from I 02a & 02b above) + AC (from III 03a & 03b above) + AD (from IV 04a & 04b above) = 8 as a set. Note the number 8 is equal to 7 PLUS 1. The 1 is a very special one, but everything in die letters, it means two arrays 7 and 8 (=4×2). The numbers 4 and 7 are very interesting if you know IOM history.
To sum up, we have talked about 2x 50p silver coins and 4x 50p coins in CN with different finishes. This class which contains 2 silver coins and 4 CN coins was named as a Tynwald set. Also, the reverse design made by the Pobjoy Mint was one year only in 1979.
3. Viking Boat 50p Silver Proof Coins associated with D & E & F batch codes
This type of coins is named as a Royal Visit IOM set with a issue limit of 30k. This 30k means lots (i.e., 30k = 5k (from D below) + 5k (from E below) + 10k (from F below) + 10k (from Part 1 silver coin)).
3.1 D batch code with edge inscription silver coin (PF, individual) Note:
PF grade @ 5,000 coins,
Inscribed on edges “ROYAL VISIT I. O. M JULY 1979 H. M Q. E – II” –(clockwise, from 9 position). Note proper reading it should be H.M__Q.E-II__ROYAL__VISIT__I.O.M.__JULY__1979
This is for PF inscribed.
3.2 E batch code with edge inscription silver coin (PF, individual) Note:
PF grade @ 5,000 coins,
Edges inscribed.
Only PF (E die) silver coin noted from this variety
Proper reading it should be H.M__Q.E-II__ROYAL__VISIT__I.O.M.__JULY__1979
This cert is for PF inscribed.
3.3 F batch code with edge inscription silver coin (BU, individual) Note:
BU grade @ 10,000 coins,
Matte finish on both sides.
BUT, inscribed on edges “ROYAL VISIT I. O. M JULY 1979 H. M Q. E – II” –(clockwise, from 9 position). Proper reading it should be H.M__Q.E-II__ROYAL__VISIT__I.O.M.__JULY__1979
This cert is for BU inscribed.
3.4 CN 50p coins
to be continued…, but it is hard to be updated over time. This is because the sample required is extremely huge.
Note: Each info contained within this table can be found from Part I/II/III, and M see Xmas 50p coins.
To sum up, 3x 50p silver proof coins have been talked. A table was created to let you interpret more in your own way. In terms of all different variants 1979 50p coins inscribed, it was hard to be true that we could summarise them all here, due to lack of sample.
4. 1980 Viking boat 50p silver proof coin with D batch code
This class is named as the Viking Show New York Exhibition set. The 5k mintage means a lot. Also, these numbers like 30k(=20k+10k)
This is for non-inscription proof.
This cert is for F non-inscription BU.
This is for PF inscribed.
This cert is for PF inscribed.
This cert is for BU inscribed.