Obverse. Photo © Royal Mint
  • 5 Pounds 2025, United Kingdom (Great Britain), Charles III, 125th Anniversary of Birth of Queen Elizabeth The Queen Mother
  • 5 Pounds 2025, United Kingdom (Great Britain), Charles III, 125th Anniversary of Birth of Queen Elizabeth The Queen Mother
  • 5 Pounds 2025, United Kingdom (Great Britain), Charles III, 125th Anniversary of Birth of Queen Elizabeth The Queen Mother, 2025: Proof annual set
Description

Queen Elizabeth The Queen Mother (1900–2002) was the wife of King George VI and the mother of Queen Elizabeth II. Born Elizabeth Bowes-Lyon, she became queen consort in 1936 when her husband unexpectedly ascended the throne following the abdication of his brother, Edward VIII. Revered for her steadfastness during World War II, she bolstered British morale by staying in London during the Blitz and visiting bombed areas. After her husband's death in 1952, she assumed the title "Queen Mother" to avoid confusion with her daughter. Known for her charm, resilience, and dedication to public service, she remained a beloved figure in the British royal family until her passing at the age of 101.

Obverse

Depicts King Charles III’s effigy, surrounded by the Latin inscription. Engraver's initials on the neck.

CHARLES III DEI GRATIA REX FIDEI DEFENSOR means King Charles III, by the Grace of God King, Defender of the Faith.

Engraver: Martin Jennings (MJ)

CHARLES III•D•G•REX•F•D•5 POUNDS•2025 •
MJ

Reverse

Depicts a portrait of Queen Elizabeth The Queen Mother by Richard Guyatt, which was part of the design for her 80th Birthday commemorative coin in 1980. Below the portrait is the emblem of the Order of the Garter, one of the most prestigious and oldest orders of chivalry in the United Kingdom, established in 1348 by King Edward III. Its motto, "Honi soit qui mal y pense" (Old French for "Shame on him who thinks evil of it"), reflects the values of honor and loyalty upheld by the order. At the bottom of the coin is a crowned monogram "ER" (Elizabeth Regina, Latin for "Elizabeth the Queen"), symbolizing her status as queen consort during King George VI's reign.

The portrait is flanked by a rose on the right and a thistle on the left. The rose represents England, while the thistle symbolizes Scotland, highlighting Queen Elizabeth The Queen Mother's heritage as Elizabeth Bowes-Lyon, a member of a prominent Scottish aristocratic family. This dual symbolism underscores her deep ties to Scotland and her role in uniting the nations of the United Kingdom through her position in the monarchy.

Engraver: Dan Thorne

QUEEN ELIZABETH THE QUEEN MOTHER
HONI SOIT QUI MAL Y PENSE
DT
ER

Edge
Characteristics
Type Commemorative Issue (Non-circulating)
Material Silver
Fineness 0.925
Weight 28.28 g
Diameter 38.61 mm
Thickness -
Shape round
Alignment Medal
Mint
Royal Mint