Flora and Fauna - Parrot (Silver)

Continuing the series of coins featuring designs of species native to the Cayman Islands, including some that are now endangered, the 1996 edition highlights the vibrant Cayman Parrot. This bird is a subspecies of the Cuban Parrot (Amazona leucocephala), found in Cuba, the Cayman Islands, and parts of the Bahamas.

The Cayman Islands are home to two endemic parrot species: the more common Grand Cayman Parrot (Amazona leucocephala caymanensis - Cory) and the smaller, darker Cayman Brac Parrot (Amazona leucocephala hesterna - Bangs), which is rarer, likely due to the devastation caused by Hurricane David in 1980. Recognized by their iridescent green feathers and distinctive squawking, these parrots typically feed in small groups but fly in pairs. They nest in tree cavities during April and May, with eggs (usually four) hatching in about 24 days, and the fledglings ready to leave the nest within two months. The charming parrot depicted on the reverse of the silver Proof $1 coin was designed by Royal Mint Engraver Robert Elderton.

The obverse side features the uncoupled portrait of Queen Elizabeth II by Raphael Maklouf.

Specifications