½ Crown - Elizabeth II Squadron 202 in Gibraltar; Gold
1994 year| Gold (.9999) | 15.55 g | 30 mm |
| Issuer | Gibraltar (British Overseas Territories) |
|---|---|
| Queen | Elizabeth II (1952-2022) |
| Type | Non-circulating coin |
| Year | 1994 |
| Value | ½ Crown (0.125) |
| Currency | Crown Coinage (1967-date) |
| Composition | Gold (.9999) |
| Weight | 15.55 g |
| Diameter | 30 mm |
| Shape | Round |
| Technique | Milled |
| Orientation | Medal alignment ↑↑ |
| Updated | 2024-10-08 |
| Numista | N#431586 |
|---|---|
| Rarity index | 100% |
Reverse
Flying boat taking off with Gibraltar in background
Squadron crest above rock
Script: Latin
Lettering:
WORLD WAR II
SQUADRON 202 IN GIBRALTAR
1/2
CROWN
Edge
Reeded
Comment
Squadron 202 and Einsenhower coins were minted also in 1/2 oz. 999 Fine Silver in addition to Sterling Silver & Copper-Nickel crowns and gold 1/5oz coins.
202 Squadron, whose motto is Semper Vigilante (Be always vigilant) was first formed as No. 2 squadron RNAS on 17th October 1914. All through 1940 the squadron maintained the security of the Straights of Gibraltar by using convoy patrols and anti submarine searches with London flying boats. At the end of the year, Swordfish biplanes were added to the squadron to give both a short and long range capability. Towards the end of 1942, with intense activity covering huge convoys destined for the North African landings, Catalina aircraft were added to the 202 Squadron to enhance the ability to counteract the deadly U-Boats, whose role was increasingly being reversed from hunter to hunted. 202 Squadron was the longest resident squadron to be based in Gibraltar during the war.
Interesting fact
The 1994 Gibraltar ½ Crown - Elizabeth II (Squadron 202 in Gibraltar; Gold) coin is unique in that it was minted to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the Battle of Britain, a pivotal air campaign fought during World War II. The coin's design features an image of Queen Elizabeth II, along with the emblem of Squadron 202, which was a Royal Air Force squadron that played a significant role in the Battle of Britain. The coin's gold content and limited mintage make it a highly sought-after collector's item among numismatists and history enthusiasts.
