Coin of the Week: 1964 Bermuda Crown

Obverse (Image: Queen Elizabeth II)

Reverse (Image: Coat of Arms)

 

The obverse features the bust of Queen Elizabeth II facing right. On the outer periphery are the words “DEI GRATIA REGINA” (By the Grace of God, Queen), and “ELIZABETH II”. The reverse features the coat of arms of Bermuda. The coat of arms depicts a lion holding a shield that has a depiction of a wrecked ship upon it. The lion is a symbol of England and alludes to Bermuda's relationship with that country. The wrecked ship is the Sea Venture, the flagship of the Virginia Company. The ship was deliberately driven on to the reefs of Bermuda, by Admiral Sir George Somers, in 1609, to prevent it from foundering in a storm. All aboard survived, resulting in the settlement of the Island.  The Bermudan motto QUO FATA FERUNT (Whither the Fates Carry [Us]) is on a scroll below, while above is the inscription ONE BERMUDA CROWN.

 

1964 was the last official Crown issued. By February of 1970 Bermuda converted from the “Pound Sterling” currency standard to the “Dollar” as their currency standard. Prior to 1964, the only other crown issued was the 1959 350th Colony Founding Anniversary coin.