Jamaican One Dollar Coin (Sir Alexander Bustamante)

This is a Jamaican one dollar circulation coin, characterized by its distinct heptagonal (seven-sided) equilateral curved shape. The coin is composed of a copper-nickel alloy or nickel-plated steel, exhibiting a bright metallic silver-tone finish. The obverse side features a detailed portrait of The Right Excellent Sir Alexander Bustamante, a prominent Jamaican politician and labor leader who was the first Prime Minister of independent Jamaica and is designated as a National Hero. The inscription circling the portrait reads 'THE RT. EXCELLENT SIR ALEXANDER BUSTAMANTE' along the top edge and 'NATIONAL HERO' along the bottom. The portrait displays fine relief work in the hair and facial features, indicating a reasonably high standard of minting. In terms of condition, the coin shows signs of moderate circulation, including various surface scratches, minor dings on the rims, and a slight accumulation of grime or oxidation in the recessed areas of the lettering. There is no evidence of major damage, bending, or significant corrosion. These coins have been minted in various iterations since 1969, with the heptagonal shape becoming standard for the denomination in 1990. The craftsmanship represents a functional, mass-produced government currency piece with clean strikes and legible typography.