For your consideration is a rare and historically significant 2024 Bahamas 50th Anniversary Limited Edition Colored Commemorative Quarter (25-cent) Coin, presented in brilliant uncirculated (BU) mint condition. This exceptional coin celebrates the 50th anniversary of the Central Bank of The Bahamas and is the first-ever colored circulation coin produced by the renowned Royal Canadian Mint, making it an unparalleled collector's item. Officially released into circulation on June 3, 2024, this commemorative quarter retains the traditional specifications of the Bahamian 25-cent coin but introduces an innovative and vibrant colored design, a pioneering achievement in numismatic history.
With an extremely limited mintage of only 3 million pieces, this coin is a highly sought-after collectible. Classified by Numista as extremely rare (75/100), it stands out for its scarcity despite being legal tender intended for general circulation. Limited quantities have been released, making them increasingly difficult to obtain. The coin's rarity is further amplified by the Bahamian currency restriction, which limits visitors from taking more than $200 in Bahamian currency out of the country, enhancing its exclusivity. It remains in pristine, brilliant uncirculated condition, directly sourced from original government packaging (OGP) or original bank packaging (OBP) rolls. Each coin is securely shipped in a 2.0" x 2.0" protective paper coin flip with a transparent plastic window, ensuring its preservation and safe storage.
This groundbreaking coin maintains the traditional round shape, weighing 5.10 grams, with a 24.26 mm diameter and 1.78 mm thickness, and features a milled edge. The obverse showcases the Coat of Arms of The Bahamas, encircled by the words Commonwealth of The Bahamas. In an innovative first, the Coat of Arms is beautifully colored, featuring vibrant shades of blue, white, pink, and green, highlighting iconic Bahamian symbols such as the blue marlin, flamingo, and conch shell. This colored design adds depth and vibrancy, making it a visual masterpiece.
The reverse presents a stunning native Bahamian sloop, skillfully colored in red, white, and brown, sailing through a painted blue sea against a tropical island backdrop. The vivid colors bring the scene to life, celebrating the natural beauty and cultural heritage of The Bahamas. The inscriptions The Central Bank of The Bahamas, 50th Anniversary 1974-2024, and 25 Cents complete this extraordinary design, making it the first colored commemorative circulation coin ever issued by The Bahamas.
This commemorative quarter is not just a beautifully crafted coin; it is a piece of numismatic history. On October 29, 2024, it received the prestigious Best New Commemorative/Limited Circulation Coin award from the International Association of Currency Affairs (IACA) at the Coin Conference in Lisbon, Portugal. This accolade recognized the historical significance of this coin as the first circulation coin ever colored on both sides, showcasing the Royal Canadian Mint's unmatched innovation.
The historical importance and remarkable design of this coin are matched only by its strategic significance. Deputy Governor Derek Rolle of the Central Bank of The Bahamas emphasized the vision behind creating a widely accessible yet uniquely collectible coin. Saverino Spangnolo, International Sales Manager for the Royal Canadian Mint, commended The Bahamas for challenging the Mint to produce something truly innovative, resulting in this groundbreaking colored circulation coin.
This 2024 Bahamas 50th Anniversary Limited Edition Colored Commemorative Quarter is a must-have for serious collectors of rare coins, commemorative currency, and Bahamian numismatics. Its exceptional rarity, award-winning design, and historical importance make it an outstanding investment and an exquisite addition to any distinguished collection. With only 3 million pieces minted, this coin not only commemorates the 50th anniversary of the Central Bank of The Bahamas but also represents a major milestone in the history of numismatics. Secure this exquisite piece of numismatic art today and own a commemorative coin that symbolizes innovation, cultural heritage, and historical significance.