The Isle of Man has its own circulating coinage, which is used in parallel with the British Pound Sterling; it also issues an extensive range of commemorative coins for collectors, as well as bullion coins in a variety of formats and designs for investors in precious metals.
These coins are usually in internationally popular standard formats, but some (such as this coin) are in non-standard sizes. They are considered Non-Circulating Legal Tender (NCLT) because they are "premium" editions released at prices much higher than their bullion value.
The mint says about this coin: "The Angel Coin, first struck in France in 1341, was adopted in England in 1465 in the reign of King Edward IV. But it was when the coin was used by King Henry VIII in 1526 that it became renowned. Henry VIII ascended to the throne in 1509 and apart from being famous for having six wives, he was also known for being a lavish king who loved all things opulent and decadent and he had clear favorites in his court. He used to give the Angel Coin as a gift to his preferred courtiers on special state occasions.
In many Christian circles, Archangel Michael is the patron saint of chivalry and the warrior and in most medieval art, a Dragon was used to represent evil. Hence, the image of Archangel Michael’s victory over the Dragon was to gain the Gold Angel Coin a legendary reputation as a lucky charm. The court at the time of Henry VIII was very superstitious and so any sort of touch piece that would bring good fortune would have been most desired. Therefore, it only seems fitting that this year, which is the 500th anniversary of the Accession of Henry VIII and the 25th anniversary of the Angel, a coin should be made that incorporates the two."
The coin is denominated as one Crown, which means that (same as its British counterpart and original) it has a nominal face value of £5 (five pounds). |