Description

The Royal Mint have launched crown coin which marks the auspicious anniversary of the coronation of Queen Elizabeth II, which took place on the 2nd June 1953, sixteen months after her accession to the British throne. For the first time in history, the solemn event was televised to millions of homes around the world and ushering in the age of modern communications which the Queen’s reign has been a part of since that day. The Queen’s new coins which included her portrait also made their debut in the same year with a five shilling crown depicting the new monarch on horseback which was also struck for the occasion.

Following the untimely death of King George VI after a reign of only just over 15 years, Elizabeth Alexandra Mary, Princess of the United Kingdom of Great Britain & Northern Ireland, heiress presumptive and eldest daughter of the late King, became Queen at the age of 25. Queen Elizabeth II also became head of the Commonwealth as well as head of state for more than a dozen other countries and territories.

Obverse

At the centre of the obverse design is the Mary Gillick uncrowned young head portrait of the Queen, as on almost all British coins from 1953 to decimalisation. This effigy is encircled by mounted trumpeters separated by swords and sceptres of the Royal Regalia.

Engraver: Raphael David Maklouf

ELIZABETH II DEI·GRATIA REGINA·FID·DEF
· FIVE POUNDS ·

Reverse

Depicts, at the centre, St. Edward's crown, which was used at the coronation of the Queen. It is surrounded by forty trumpets in celebration of the happy occasion, evoking memories of the blaze of trumpets which welcomed the Queen as she entered Westminster Abbey on Coronation day.

Engraver: Robert Elderton

FAITH AND TRUTH I WILL BEAR UNTO YOU
· 1953 - 1993 ·

Edge
Characteristics
Type Commemorative Issue (Non-circulating)
Material Silver
Fineness 0.925
Weight 28.28 g
Diameter 38.61 mm
Thickness 2.89 mm
Shape round
Alignment Medal
Mint
Royal Mint