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The Gibraltar 1 Crown 1994 KM#262a Proof coin commemorating World War II and honoring Glenn Miller is a numismatic tribute that blends historical reverence, artistic design, and fine silver content. Issued by the Government of Gibraltar, a British Overseas Territory, this one crown coin was part of a wider commemorative series struck in the early 1990s to mark the 50th anniversary of key World War II events. This particular release recognizes the contributions of American big band leader Glenn Miller, whose music inspired troops and civilians alike during the global conflict. Struck in Proof quality, the coin boasts frosted devices and mirrored fields, offering both visual elegance and technical precision.
Glenn Miller was one of the most popular bandleaders of the swing era, famous for hits like “In the Mood” and “Moonlight Serenade.” His music became synonymous with morale-boosting entertainment during World War II, and he eventually enlisted in the U.S. Army Air Forces to lead the Army Air Force Band. Tragically, Miller disappeared over the English Channel in 1944 during a flight to entertain Allied troops in France. His legacy lives on through recordings, performances, and commemorative honors like this Gibraltar crown. The coin not only celebrates his musical impact but also symbolizes the role of art and culture in wartime resilience.
The obverse of the coin features the standard effigy of Queen Elizabeth II, designed by Raphael Maklouf. This right-facing portrait shows the Queen crowned and draped in regal attire, a familiar motif on Gibraltar and other Commonwealth coinage during the period. Surrounding the portrait are the inscriptions “ELIZABETH II” and “GIBRALTAR,” along with the year of issue, “1994.” As a Proof coin, the obverse displays crisp contrast between the frosted effigy and the deeply mirrored background, enhancing the design’s visual impact and reaffirming the coin’s collector-grade quality.
The reverse of the coin is dedicated to Glenn Miller and features a stylized image of the bandleader in uniform, conducting with baton in hand. Behind him are musical notes flowing like a banner, representing the widespread influence of his swing melodies across Allied forces. The inscription “GLENN MILLER” curves around the upper rim, with “WORLD WAR II” prominently displayed below the image. Additional design elements may include a small crown or commemorative text along the lower rim. The composition is carefully rendered to balance artistry with symbolism, reflecting both Miller’s musical heritage and his service to the Allied war effort.
The coin was struck in .925 sterling silver, a standard used for many Commonwealth proof issues, giving it a silver purity of 92.5%. It has a weight of approximately 28.28 grams (roughly equivalent to one troy ounce) and a diameter of 38.6 millimeters. The silver content, combined with its Proof finish and commemorative theme, makes it appealing to both bullion enthusiasts and historical coin collectors. The edge of the coin may be either reeded or inscribed, depending on the specific strike and minting authority involved, though Gibraltar issues of this era typically feature a reeded edge.
As a Proof coin, the Gibraltar 1994 Glenn Miller Crown was specially struck using polished dies and carefully prepared planchets to produce high-contrast finishes. These coins were never intended for circulation and were instead issued in limited quantities, usually as part of boxed or encapsulated presentations. Mintage figures are generally modest for such commemoratives, often ranging between 10,000 and 25,000 pieces, although exact production numbers may vary depending on collector demand and distribution arrangements through private mints or international coin dealers.
The condition of a PF (Proof) example such as this is critical to its value and collectibility. A well-preserved coin will exhibit no signs of wear or contact marks, with flawless mirrored fields and sharp frosted devices. Coins housed in original mint capsules or presentation boxes are most likely to retain their pristine condition, especially when kept free of dust, moisture, or handling. Any noticeable haze, spots, or hairlines can detract from the coin’s appeal, although many examples remain in superb condition due to their protected storage and limited handling.
The Gibraltar Glenn Miller crown is often part of a larger set of WWII-themed commemorative crowns that pay tribute to various Allied heroes and events. Other issues from the same period honored figures like General Dwight D. Eisenhower and events such as D-Day. Together, these coins form a cohesive numismatic narrative that chronicles the people, places, and cultural forces that shaped the Allied war effort. The Glenn Miller issue stands out for its tribute to music and morale, offering collectors a reminder that the war was fought not only with weapons but also with inspiration and unity.
Though not legal tender in the sense of modern Gibraltar coinage used in commerce, the one crown denomination was traditionally equivalent to 5 shillings and has long been used for commemorative issues. The coin is fully legal tender within Gibraltar but is not intended for circulation. Its true value lies in its silver content, Proof quality, and numismatic significance, which far exceed its face value. The coin’s appeal spans categories, drawing interest from collectors of silver bullion, World War II memorabilia, British Commonwealth coins, and music-themed numismatics.
The 1994 Gibraltar 1 Crown Glenn Miller Proof coin (KM#262a) is a sterling example of commemorative coinage that merges artistry, tribute, and silver content into a single, elegant piece. With its historical resonance, fine craftsmanship, and limited mintage, it offers lasting appeal to collectors who appreciate coins that honor cultural icons and wartime legacy. Whether displayed as part of a WWII collection or admired individually for its musical homage, this coin stands as a polished symbol of inspiration, sacrifice, and the enduring power of melody in times of conflict.