Obverse. Photo © NumisCorner.com
  • 50 Cents 1990-2005, KM# 29, Solomon Islands, Elizabeth II
  • 50 Cents 1990-2005, KM# 29, Solomon Islands, Elizabeth II
Description

The Solomon Islands comprise a double chain of seven large and more than thirty small islands, located just east of New Guinea. The islands were named in 1568 by the Spanish navigator Alvaro de Mendaña, who claimed that he had found the riches of King Solomon, or the biblical land of gold. Solomon Islands is a constitutional monarchy with the Queen of Solomon Islands, currently Queen Elizabeth II, as its head of state.

Obverse

Third crowned portrait of HM Queen Elizabeth II facing right, wearing the George IV State Diadem.

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.

Engraver: Raphael David Maklouf

ELIZABETH II SOLOMON ISLANDS
RDM
2005

Reverse

Depicts the coat of arms of Solomon Islands, value below.

The coat of arms of Solomon Islands shows a shield which is framed by a saltwater crocodile and a shark, two ferocious indigenous animals, suitable as protectors. The motto is displayed under it, which reads "To Lead Is To Serve." Over the shield, there is a helmet with decorations, crowned by a stylized sun.

The arms show symbols for the different districts of the islands. The two turtles symbolise the Western District. The green cross with crossed spears, shield and arrows, symbolises the Central District. The eagle represents the island of Malaita. The frigatebirds represent the Outer Islands. The crest shows a sun over a Solomon Islands war canoe.

TO LEAD IS TO SERVE
50 CENTS

Edge

50 Cents

3rd portrait, Non-magnetic
KM# 29 Schön# 30
Characteristics
Material Cupronickel
Weight 10 g
Diameter 29.5 mm
Thickness 1.9 mm
Shape polygon
Sides 12
Alignment Medal
Mint
Royal Mint

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