A superb 1953 Southern Rhodesia Silver Crown, catalogued as KM#27, issued to commemorate the 100th anniversary of the birth of Cecil John Rhodes (18531902). Struck during the reign of Queen Elizabeth II, this impressive crown is one of the most iconic commemorative issues of Southern Rhodesia and the last silver crown issued for circulation by the colony. With a mintage of 124,000 pieces, it remains highly sought after by collectors of British Commonwealth and African coinage.
The obverse features the youthful laureate portrait of Queen Elizabeth II, designed by Mary Gillick, while the reverse, by Thomas Humphrey Paget, depicts a portrait of Cecil Rhodes above the arms of Southern Rhodesia, flanked by the dates 1853 and 1902, with the inscription "SOUTHERN RHODESIA CROWN 1953". The edge bears the famous inscription "1853 OUT OF VISION CAME REALITY 1953." The coin is presented in its original green Bakelite presentation case, enhancing both its collectability and display appeal.
This is an outstanding example for collectors of Commonwealth crowns, Rhodesiana, Southern African numismatics, and historic silver commemorative coinage.
Specifications
Country: Southern Rhodesia
Year: 1953
Denomination: 1 Crown
Reference: KM#27
Composition: Silver (.500)
Weight: 28.28 g
Actual Silver Weight: 14.14 g
Diameter: 38.5 mm
Edge: Lettered "1853 OUT OF VISION CAME REALITY 1953"
Alignment: Medal
Designer (Obverse): Mary Gillick
Designer (Reverse): Thomas Humphrey Paget
Mintage: 125,000
Condition Uncirculated
A beautiful uncirculated example retaining its original mint lustre with only the lightest cabinet friction from long-term storage. The coin is housed in its original green Bakelite presentation case, which remains complete and displays only minor age-related wear. An exceptional collector's example with excellent eye appeal. Please study the photographs carefully, as they form part of the description and condition assessment.
Please Note:
All item descriptions and condition gradings are provided in our opinion only. We strongly encourage buyers to carefully review all photos before placing a bid, as the pictures form part of the description. All items are securely packaged for shipping; however, they may not be individually wrapped unless of higher value or particularly fragile. Shipping is at the buyer's risk. Collection can be arranged from Midlands Books & Collectables in Howick, KZN.
