British Antarctic Territory Elizabeth II 2 Pounds

History

2 Pounds 2021, KM# 46, British Antarctic Territory, Elizabeth II, Barbeled Plunderfish

Obverse. Photo © NumisCorner.com

Description

The British Antarctic Territory (BAT) is a vast region in Antarctica claimed by the United Kingdom, forming its largest Overseas Territory. Defined by the area south of 60°S latitude and between longitudes 20°W and 80°W, it extends to the South Pole, overlapping with the claims of Argentina and Chile. Established on 3 March 1962, it encompasses Graham Land, the South Orkney Islands, and the South Shetland Islands, formerly administered as dependencies of the Falkland Islands. However, since the Antarctic Treaty of 1961, which prohibits new territorial claims, the UK's claim to BAT is suspended. Despite this, the UK has ratified the treaty. Inhabited by personnel from research stations like the British Antarctic Survey, Argentina, and Chile, it has no native inhabitants. Notably, in 2012, a portion was named Queen Elizabeth Land in honor of Queen Elizabeth II.

Obverse	Crown, jewelry Diamond Diadem Person (king, queen, tsar etc.) Elizabeth II Depicts an effigy of HM Queen Elizabeth II, wearing the George IV State Diadem and drop earrings, which is an exclusive design to the Pobjoy Mint. The year of issue is included in the legend placed around the Queen’s portrait. The George IV State Diadem, officially the Diamond Diadem, is a type of crown that was made in 1820 for King George IV. The diadem is worn by queens and queens consort in procession to coronations and State Openings of Parliament. The piece of jewellery has been featured in paintings and on stamps and currency. It can be seen in the Queen's Gallery at Buckingham Palace. BRITISH ANTARCTIC TERRITORY 2021 PM
Reverse	Animal (fish, bird, mammal etc.) Barbeled plunderfish Depicts Barbeled Antarctic Plunderfish and value above. The Barbeled Antarctic Plunderfish (Artedidraco skottsberg) belongs to the Artedidraconidae family, comprising approximately 25 small predatory fish species exclusive to the Southern Ocean. It inhabits waters surrounding the Antarctic continent, ranging from near-shore areas to depths surpassing 600m. Notably, one distinctive trait of this species is its scales' UV properties, causing it to emit a vivid glow under UV light. It is the replication of this unique feature that renders the fish particularly remarkable and prized. TWO POUNDS
Edge	Reeded (milled)