In 1997, The Royal Mint released a commemorative £5 coin to mark the 50th wedding anniversary of Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Philip, the Duke of Edinburgh. This limited-edition coin celebrates a remarkable milestone in the lives of the royal couple, blending innovative design with rich historical significance.
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On 20 November 1947, Princess Elizabeth married Lieutenant Philip Mountbatten in a ceremony that captivated the nation. Fifty years later, their Golden Wedding Anniversary was celebrated with a host of events, culminating in the release of this special £5 coin. A visit to the Royal Mint in South Wales on 9 May 1997 saw Her Majesty personally strike the very first coin, underscoring the importance of this occasion.
This coin, struck in .925 sterling silver, is a tribute to their enduring partnership and shared history. Its design draws on themes of unity and heritage, making it one of the most distinctive £5 coins ever produced.
The 1997 £5 coin features innovative and meaningful designs on both sides, crafted by celebrated British artists:
Obverse: The obverse showcases a double portrait of Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Philip, facing right. Designed by Philip Nathan, this jugate (overlapping) portrait marked a historic moment, as it was the first time a double portrait appeared on British coinage since the reign of William and Mary in the late 17th century.
Reverse: The reverse, designed by Leslie Durbin, combines the royal arms and the arms of the Duke of Edinburgh, symbolising the unity of the royal couple. The shields are topped with a crown and flanked by an anchor, representing Prince Philip’s distinguished naval career. The anniversary dates, 1947–1997, are inscribed below the design.
This combination of artistic innovation and historical significance makes the coin a standout piece among commemorative issues.
Struck to proof quality using specially prepared dies and polished blanks, this coin exhibits exceptional detail and finish. The 1997 £5 coin has the following specifications:
Metal: .925 sterling silver
Weight: 28.28 grams (equivalent to 0.841 troy ounces)
Diameter: 38.61mm
Face Value: £5
Mintage: 33,689 coins in this presentation
The coin was issued in a limited edition, presented in a Royal Mint case with a certificate of authenticity, adding to its appeal for collectors.
The 1997 Golden Wedding Anniversary £5 coin broke new ground in British numismatics. The obverse’s double portrait was a bold departure from recent practices, creating a visual representation of partnership that had not been seen on coinage for over 300 years.
The reverse design further highlighted the connection between Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Philip, combining their heraldic symbols with an anchor to reflect Prince Philip’s lifelong dedication to the Royal Navy.
This £5 coin is more than a tribute to a royal milestone; it represents an era of innovation and creativity at The Royal Mint. For collectors, it holds value not only in its sterling silver composition but also in its rarity and unique design. As a commemorative piece, it celebrates not just the enduring love story of the Queen and Prince Philip but also their contribution to Britain and the Commonwealth over half a century.
The 1997 Golden Wedding Anniversary £5 coin remains a cherished piece of royal history. Whether you are a seasoned numismatist, a royal enthusiast, or someone seeking to preserve wealth in precious metals, this coin is a fitting addition to any collection.
With its historic significance, artistic innovation, and sterling silver content, the 1997 £5 coin serves as a timeless reminder of a royal love story that stood the test of time.
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