Obverse. Photo © NumisCorner.com
  • 50 Cents 1997, KM# 74, Hong Kong, Transfer of Sovereignty
  • 50 Cents 1997, KM# 74, Hong Kong, Transfer of Sovereignty
Description

On 1 July 1997, the transfer of sovereignty of Hong Kong from the United Kingdom to the People's Republic of China took place, officially marking the end of Hong Kong's 156 years under British colonial governance. Hong Kong switched its country of administration overnight to become China's first Special Administrative Region.

Obverse

Bauhinia or Hong Kong orchid flower.

The flag of Hong Kong features a white, stylised, five-petal Hong Kong orchid flower (Bauhinia blakeana), a flower discovered in Hong Kong.

Engraver: Joseph Yam

香 港
HONG KONG

Reverse

Depicts an ox, denomination and date.

An ox (plural oxen) is a bovine trained as a draft animal. Oxen are used for plowing, for transport (pulling carts, hauling wagons and even riding), for threshing grain by trampling, and for powering machines that grind grain or supply irrigation among other purposes.

Engraver: Lady Haddon-Cave

伍 50 毫
19 97
FIFTY CENTS

Edge
Characteristics
Type Commemorative Issue (Circulating)
Material Brass Plated Steel
Weight 4.92 g
Diameter 22.5 mm
Thickness 1.81 mm
Shape round
Alignment Medal
Mint
Royal Mint

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