The Cayman Islands is a self-governing British Overseas Territory, the largest by population, in the western Caribbean Sea. The territory has its own currency, the Cayman Islands Dollar, in which the Cayman Islands Monetary Authority (CIMA) issues a variety of circulating coins and banknotes.
The government also authorises some foreign mints to strike commemorative and bullion coins under its jurisdiction, for collector's purposes or for investment. Many of these are in standard bullion sizes, including one ounce (1oz) of gold.
This coin is part of the Cayman Sea Life Coin Series, and features the Loggerhead Turtle.
The mint says about it:
The Loggerhead Turtle (Caretta caretta) is renowned for its incredible journeys across the world's oceans, showcasing unmatched endurance and navigational prowess. These magnificent creatures are a vital part of the Cayman Islands' natural heritage, having nested on its beaches for centuries. Historically, the Loggerhead was a crucial resource for the islanders, providing food and materials, but today, it stands as a symbol of conservation and ecological responsibility.
The Cayman Islands, discovered by Christopher Columbus in 1503, were named "Las Tortugas" due to the abundance of sea turtles in the surrounding waters. Over the years, the Loggerhead Turtle became an integral part of the local culture and economy. During the 18th and 19th centuries, these turtles were heavily harvested, leading to a significant decline in their population. Recognizing the need for preservation, the Cayman Islands have since implemented robust conservation measures, transforming the Loggerhead into a celebrated symbol of marine conservation.
Today, the Cayman Islands are at the forefront of marine conservation, with extensive efforts to protect and nurture the Loggerhead Turtle population. The Cayman Islands Department of Environment, along with various non-profits, actively monitors nesting sites and implements protective measures to ensure the survival of these magnificent creatures. The Loggerhead's story is one of survival and recovery, mirroring the resilience and determination of the islands' inhabitants. |
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The obverse of the coin displays the Coat of Arms of the Cayman Islands, which consists of a shield, a crested helm and the motto. Three stars, representing each of the three inhabited Islands (Grand Cayman, Little Cayman and Cayman Brac), are set in the lower two-thirds of the shield. The stars rest on wavy bands representing the sea. In the top third of the shield is a lion passant guardant (walking with the further forepaw raised and the body seen from the side), representing Britain. Above the shield is a turtle on a coil of rope. Behind the turtle is a pineapple. The turtle represents the seafaring history; the rope, its traditional thatch-rope industry; and the pineapple, its ties with Jamaica.
The islands’ motto, HE HATH FOUNDED IT UPON THE SEAS is on a ribbon below the shield. This line, a verse from Psalm 24 Verse 2, acknowledges the Christian heritage of the country, as well as its ties to the sea.
The background of the centre is textured with lines resembling sea waves.
In the rim, which is textured with thin wavy lines, around above are the date of issue, the name of the country and the face value: 2024 · CAYMAN ISLANDS · 5 DOLLARS. Around below, the precious metal content: 1 TROY OZ 9999 FINE GOLD. |
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