April 20th, 2006 | Isle of Man, Travel |
Manx Money
Manx Pounds were interesting. Since the Isle of Man is independent, they are not under the rule of the British Crown, so their money features an Elizabeth that is not wearing a crown. It’s the quick way to see whether or not you are holding a British Pound or a Manx Pound. All stores seem to accept both, so I don’t really understand the bother, unless they just want to be quaint.
September 26th, 2007 08:53
Trey
Thanks first for introducing me to HDR photography! I’ve just started so no images to post yet.
I thought I’d say something about the Isle of Man - as with most things in the British Isles there’s a lot of history and none of it’s straightforward.
Here’s what Wikipedia has to say:
The head of state is Queen Elizabeth II, who holds the title of Lord of Mann. The Crown is represented by a Lieutenant Governor. The island is not part of the United Kingdom, but external relations, defence, and ultimate good-governance of the Isle of Man are the responsibility of the government of the UK.
The Isle of Man is not a part of the European Union, but has a limited relationship relating to the free movement of goods.
We have a few territories like this, most notably the Channel Islands. These are held by the Crown because they were the personal property of William the Conqueror, Duke of Normandy. The Isle of Man was a Viking settlement (I think) that the UK Crown bought some centuries back.
They are a thorn in the side of the European Union because they’re low tax, low bureaucracy, capitalist islands that have a jealously-guarded tradition of independence. The EU doesn’t like such things…..
May 14th, 2008 10:55
“It’s the quick way to see whether or not you are holding a British Pound or a Manx Pound.”
… I think there are easier ways to tell than looking for the crown. The very design of the banknotes is different. Any fool can see a difference. I can instantly tell that this is not British currency. If not, the words “Isle of Man Government” and the three legs do give some hints…
Nonetheless, what you point out is very interesting =)