Numismatic

2018 St. Helena 1 oz Silver British Trade Dollar Restrike (BU)

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In 1894, a special currency received approval to help ease commerce in the Far East during a period when fluctuating silver prices created a deficit of circulating dollar coins. To ensure merchants in China and other non-British regions would readily accept the money, the coin was intentionally designed with an Eastern visual style and omitted any mention of a country of origin. This modern release pays tribute to those original silver trade pieces that circulated from 1895 to 1935. One side of this silver piece features a standing figure of Britannia wearing a helmet and gazing to her left. She holds a trident in one hand while resting her other hand on a shield adorned with a united cross. The words THE EAST INDIA COMPANY and TRADE DOLLAR frame the central figure, which is surrounded by a merchant vessel and a decorative Chinese scroll pattern border. The other side displays the right-facing portrait of Queen Elizabeth II along with the 2018 issue date and the face value of One Pound. This side also features the same intricate Chinese scroll pattern along the outer edge. Struck in one ounce of 0.999 fine silver, this Brilliant Uncirculated coin represents a limited issue of 10,000 pieces, offering a fascinating look at the intersection of British maritime influence and Asian trade history.