Turtles Galore

Pobjoy Mint has recently released its third coin in the 50p Turtles Series on behalf of British Indian Ocean Territory, a Leatherback turtle coin.

Sea turtles have an amazing ability to navigate back to the area where they were born. Although these reptiles can be shortsighted on land, underwater they have excellent vision and can hold their breath for long periods of time.

The Leatherback Turtle is the largest of the sea turtle species and is easily identified by its lack of bony shell. Instead, its body is covered by a layer of tough, rubbery skin which is strengthened with thousands of tiny bone plates that resemble a jigsaw puzzle.

Adults can grow to over two meters in length and weigh up to 900kg. It is estimated the population of the female Leatherback turtles is only between 30,000 and 40,000 meaning the species is considered as vulnerable.

The design on the coin itself features a Leatherback Turtle posed in a diving position swimming in the ocean. The words ‘LEATHERBACK TURTLE’ appear on the coin with the 50 pence denomination incused at the bottom of the coin. The obverse of the coin features the Pobjoy Mint exclusive effigy of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II.

The coin is available in Cupro Nickel Diamond Finish with the Turtle portrayed in color. A special color album, which is sold separately, has been designed to house all five coins. All images courtesy of Pobjoy Mint.