Isle of Man - A dependency of the British Crown since 1765, the Isle of Man, situated in the Irish Sea, midway between England, Scotland and Ireland has the oldest parliament in the world in continuous existence (since 979). It is an Independent State with a long history, distinctive language and culture, and many proud traditions. The Isle of Man has established an enviable reputation for innovation combined with technical excellence. Such coins as the platinum Noble, the gold Angel and the award-winning Penny Black Crown have placed the Isle of Man in the forefront of contemporary numismatics.