The Isle of Man, a self-governing British Crown dependency, issues its own unique coinage, the Manx Pound (IMP). While equal in value to the British Pound Sterling (GBP), Manx coins feature distinct designs reflecting the island’s rich history, culture, and wildlife.
Here’s a closer look at Isle of Man coins:
Manx coins come in the same denominations as British coins: 1p, 2p, 5p, 10p, 20p, 50p, £1, and £2.
Manx coin designs are renowned for their unique and diverse representations of the island’s heritage. Common themes include:
- The Manx triskelion: The iconic three-legged emblem of the Isle of Man is a prominent feature on many coins.
- TT Races: The famous Isle of Man Tourist Trophy motorcycle races are celebrated on some commemorative coins.
- Wildlife: Native animals such as the Manx cat and Loaghtan sheep appear on various coin designs.
- Historical Landmarks: Features like Tynwald Hill, Castle Rushen, and the Laxey Wheel are depicted on different denominations.
- Manx coins are legal tender within the Isle of Man.
- They are not legal tender in the United Kingdom, although they may sometimes appear in circulation due to their matching appearance and value with pound sterling coins.
- The Isle of Man, however, does recognize pound sterling coins.
- Manx coins are popular among collectors worldwide due to their distinctive designs.
Historically, Isle of Man coins have been minted by the Pobjoy Mint Limited (until 2016) and, more recently, by the Tower Mint (since 2017).
- Isle of Man Cat Series: This popular series features different cat breeds each year, including the iconic Manx cat.
- Isle of Man Noble Series: Originally issued in platinum, these coins feature a Viking ship design, reflecting the island’s rich Celtic history. Gold and silver versions have also been issued.
- Isle of Man Angel Series: These coins depict Archangel Michael slaying a dragon, a traditional design found on coins for centuries.
In conclusion, Isle of Man coins offer a unique glimpse into the island’s culture and history through their diverse designs and denominations. While serving as legal tender within the Isle of Man, their distinctiveness makes them a fascinating area of interest for collectors globally.
Are Isle of Man coins valuable?
The first Isle of Man TT coin was a 50p issued in 1981, and a new TT coin has been released most years since. The TT 50ps, along with other denominations have proved incredibly popular amongst collectors and motoring enthusiasts alike, with some selling for over £700 on eBay !
Are Isle of Man coins legal tender?
From my experience, The Isle of Man has its own currency with the same denominations as the UK. UK currency is legal tender in the Isle of Man but Manx currency is not accepted in the UK, although notes can be exchanged at UK banks.
Is the Isle of Man 2 coin rare?
According to most sources, there are no more than 300 1989 Isle of Man Dirigible Two Pound coins in circulation. These coins were recalled by the Manx government and are today a rarity sought by collectors of modern circulated coins.
Does the Isle of Man have its own coins?
Great question! The Manx pound matches the pound sterling and went decimal in 1971, with the UK, however since this date the Isle of Man has been at the forefront of coin innovation: The £1 coin was introduced on the Isle of Man in 1978, 5 years before the United Kingdom’s equivalent, and there is currently a circulating £5 coin.