Gold Ounce 2023 Montserrat Oriole, Coin from Montserrat - detailed information

Montserrat is a British overseas territory in the Caribbean which uses the Eastern Caribbean Dollar (EC$) as its currency; it is the common currency of six independent states and two British Overseas Territories. The EC$ has both common and national issues. All common circulating coins are issued under the authority of the Eastern Caribbean Central Bank and have no issuing country specified on them. Separately, each member country can also strike coins bearing its national symbols; these coins are legal tender in all members states, and are usually commemorative or bullion not intended for general circulation. Most of the member states are also members of the (British) Commonwealth of Nations and share the same monarch with the United Kingdom, so that the effigy of the monarch is displayed on the coins and banknotes of the currency.

Montserrat has authorised some foreign mints to strike coins under its issuing authority for collector's purposes. Some of these are in popular bullion formats, such as one troy ounce (1 oz) of gold.

This coin is part of the sixth edition of the Eastern Caribbean 8 (EC8) series of premium bullion coins by the Scottsdale Mint, which has a new annual design for each country of the Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS). The 2023 design for Montserrat features its national bird, the Oriole.

The mint says about it:
Discover the vibrant beauty of Montserrat with the 1 Troy Ounce coin, a legal tender marvel in Montserrat and the Eastern Caribbean Central Bank (ECCB) member countries. This coin, an exquisite homage to the Montserrat Oriole, the island’s cherished national bird, encapsulates the essence of Montserrat’s rich natural heritage and the unique charm of this remarkable species.

Holding this stunning coin is like holding a piece of Montserrat’s lush landscapes. The Montserrat Oriole, with its striking black and yellow plumage, is not just a bird but a symbol of the island’s vibrant ecosystem and resilient spirit. This coin beautifully captures the oriole’s elegance, from the intricate detailing of its feathers to the lush tropical foliage that frames it.

The Montserrat Oriole (Icterus oberi) is a bird of great significance and beauty, native only to the island of Montserrat. Discovered in the 19th century, the oriole is distinguished by its vibrant yellow and black feathers. The bird’s melodic song adds a delightful soundtrack to Montserrat’s verdant forests.

The oriole's habitat has faced numerous challenges, especially from the devastating volcanic eruptions of the 1990s and early 2000s that significantly reduced its population. Conservation efforts have been crucial in protecting this endangered species, with initiatives focusing on habitat restoration and protection. The Montserrat Oriole is now a proud symbol of the island’s commitment to preserving its natural heritage.