If you have been reading my posts during the last few weeks, you are somewhat familiar with micronations. Maybe you think micronational entities cannot become a reality in the United States of America. Wrong. The Conch Republic was founded on April 23, 1982, after the U.S. Border Patrol set up a roadblock at the entrance of the Florida Keys in an effort to curtail the alleged transport of narcotics and illegal immigrants to the US mainland. The resulting 20 mile-long traffic jam proved a deterrent to visiting tourists, a major inconvenience to natives and was a serious blow to the local economy. In protest, the citizens of Key West seceded from the Union, hoisted their flag, declared war on the United States, then quickly surrendered - in order to qualify for "foreign aid". The protest brought national attention to their plight and the roadblock was soon removed. Conch Republic Independence Day has been celebrated on April 23rd every year since. They even issue coins to raise revenue for the maintenance of the republic and to celebrate it's Indepence Day. I'm not going to acquaint you with all the republic's coins, but will provide links to a few beginning with the 1972 first issue Conch Dollar. worldcoingallery.com photos: 1972 Conch Dollar with Conch Obverse and Marlin Reverse: http://worldcoingallery.com/countri...blic 1 Conch Dollar (1972) Marlin&query=Conch 1973 Conch Dollar with Conch Obverse and Pelicans Reverse: 1982 Silver (1 oz. ASW) One Dollar with Conch Obverse and Map Reverse: http://worldcoingallery.com/countri...blic 1 Conch Dollar (1982) silver&query=Conch Next photo courtesy of Joelscoins.com. 2006 39mm Silver-plated Proof (5,000 mintage) Dollar featuring the republic's seal (conch shell) on obverse and a sailing ship on the reverse. http://www.joelscoins.com/images/conch06.jpg Thought you might like to know... Clinker
