THE CEREMONIAL COMMONWEALTH OF THE DAVIS ISLANDS is pleased to announce the unveiling of its newly designed 2026 One-Pound Commemorative Coin, marking an important milestone in the development of the Commonwealth's ceremonial currency and cultural identity.
The new design introduces the Davis Islands Pound, replacing the previously established Guano denomination. The change reflects the Commonwealth's appreciation for British monetary traditions, maritime heritage, and historical symbolism.
The inaugural design commemorates two significant occasions: the founding of the Commonwealth in October 2026 and the 250th anniversary of the Battle of Pell's Point, fought on October 18, 1776, in present-day Pelham Bay.
A Coin Representing the Commonwealth
The obverse prominently displays the official Coat of Arms of the Ceremonial Commonwealth of the Davis Islands, featuring the Great Blue Heron and Double-Crested Cormorant as heraldic supporters.
At the center rests the crowned shield, depicting the islands, surrounding waters, and a maritime compass rose. These elements symbolize the Commonwealth's commitment to environmental conservation, exploration, and maritime heritage.
The coin also bears the Commonwealth's official motto:
MARI · URBE · LIBERTAS
By Sea · By City · By Liberty
The inscription THE CEREMONIAL COMMONWEALTH OF THE DAVIS ISLANDS surrounds the design, establishing the coin's ceremonial identity.
Commemorating the Battle of Pell's Point
The reverse features an artistic depiction of British forces landing along the shores of Pell's Point during the American Revolutionary War.
On October 18, 1776, British forces under General Sir William Howe encountered American troops commanded by Colonel John Glover. The engagement became an important delaying action during the British campaign in New York, providing valuable time for General George Washington's Continental Army to continue its withdrawal.
The coin's illustration features British soldiers, naval vessels, and a rocky coastal landscape inspired by the waters surrounding Pelham Bay.
The reverse bears the inscription BATTLE OF PELL'S POINT — 18 OCTOBER 1776, together with the denomination ONE DAVIS ISLANDS POUND and the commemorative year 2026.
Celebrating 250 Years of Local History
The selection of the Battle of Pell's Point carries particular significance for the Commonwealth.
On October 18, 2026, the Honorary Governor-General attended the battle's 250th-anniversary reenactment at Orchard Beach, where he met with historical reenactors portraying British military personnel.
During the commemoration, the Davis Islands Red Ensign was proudly displayed, reflecting the Commonwealth's appreciation for British military and maritime history.
This experience helped inspire the selection of the battle as the subject of the Commonwealth's inaugural one-pound commemorative coin.
A New Chapter in Ceremonial Currency
The introduction of the Davis Islands Pound represents a further development of the Commonwealth's cultural traditions.
Drawing inspiration from historic British coinage, the new design incorporates gold-colored engraving, traditional heraldic imagery, and a commemorative historical scene.
Rather than featuring a portrait of the Honorary Governor-General, the design emphasizes the Commonwealth's natural surroundings, historical connections, and established symbols.
The coin is intended to serve as a representation of the Commonwealth's founding year and a lasting tribute to the maritime history of the surrounding region.
The Davis Islands Pound is a ceremonial currency. The commemorative coin is not legal tender and has no official monetary status in the United Kingdom, the United States, or any other jurisdiction.
Looking Toward the Future
The Commonwealth hopes to continue developing its ceremonial currency through future designs celebrating local wildlife, maritime exploration, historical anniversaries, and the natural beauty of Twin Island and the Chimney Sweeps Islands.
The unveiling of the 2026 One-Pound Commemorative Coin marks another chapter in the Commonwealth's efforts to celebrate history, heritage, and the spirit of the sea.
MARI · URBE · LIBERTAS
By Sea · By City · By Liberty
Office of the Honorary Governor-General
The Ceremonial Commonwealth of the Davis Islands
The Ceremonial Commonwealth of the Davis Islands is an independent ceremonial and cultural project. It is not affiliated with or recognized by the United Kingdom, the British Crown, the United States, or the City of New York.