1976 1 Oz Gulf Coast Carnival Association Doubloon BU

Rare doubloon available only to organizers within the Krewe.  The GCCA is Mississippi Coast's oldest and most prestigious Carnival organization. It was founded in 1908 and is the organization responsible for conducting the Mardi Gras Parade each year. The theme in 1976 was the 50th Anniversary although it is unclear what anniversary was being celebrated.

Obverse: The central image is a parade float being drawn by horses. The parade King can be seen sitting on the float while spectators cheer.  Underneath the float is a banner with the inscription "FIRST PARADE 1908".  Two inscriptions are located around the outer rim. The upper inscription reads "50TH ANNIVERSARY" while the lower inscription reads "BILOXI MARDI GRAS 1976". The two inscriptions are separated by four stars on the left and a Fleur de Lis on the right.

Reverse: The reverse features the insignia of the GCCA.  The insignia is shaped like the wheel of a ship.  A fishing boat on the bay and a lighthouse are located inside the center circle of the wheel.  The inner ring bears the phrase "BILOXI MISSISSIPPI USA"  while the text along the outside rim reads "GULF COAST CARNIVAL ASSOCIATION INC. 1908". 

Edge: The edge is smooth.  The purity and content of ".999 F.S." are inscribed at the top of the round.