2016-11-28 Mon

The minke whale is featured on the latest Pobjoy Mint coin from the New Marine Life £2 series issued for the South Georgia and the South Sandwich Islands. The coins are available in Uncirculated copper-nickel and Proof .925 fine silver versions.

Minke whales are the smallest of the rorqual whales, which are abundantly found. A pointed snout, straight mouthline, and a long ridge along the head are some of the unique features of this whale. Minke whales are loners and are relatively fast swimmers. Their snout appears first when they come out to breathe after they are underwater for as long as 20 minutes. The small dorsal fin is mostly curved which is used to identify individual animals.

The reverse features a minke whale swimming underwater, with icebergs floating above. The obverse of each coin features the exclusive Pobjoy Mint effigy design of Queen Elizabeth II.

The copper-nickel 28.28 grams coin comes in special packaging along with a certificate of authenticity. The coin can be purchased for $16.95 and they do not have any mintage limit. The silver coin has a mintage limit of 10,000 pieces and can be purchased for $65.