2017-08-21 Mon

Pobjoy Mint released new copper-nickel and silver £2 coins featuring the Southern right whale for the British Antarctic Territory. The Southern right whales spend their summers away from the Southern Ocean and feed near the Antarctica. Some of them spend their winter in Sub-Antarctic regions. The total population of the species is around 10,000.

These large whales are known for their broad backs with no dorsal fins. They have long curved mouths and callouses on their heads. These whales form maternal bonds and come back to their birthing spots. They are curious in nature and approach boats to investigate. They are also known for “tail sailing” where they raise their tails and curve them to catch the wind. They remain in the same position for long hours.

The obverse of the coin features a portrait of Queen Elizabeth II. The reverse features a whale in the ocean with an iceberg in the background. The mintage limit of the copper-nickel version is 10,000 pieces and each one costs $16.95. The mintage limit of silver coins is 2,000 pieces and each one costs $65.