For over half a century, Prince Charles has dedicated his life to charitable work, environmental advocacy, and public service. To commemorate his 50th birthday on 14th November 1998, the Royal Mint issued a special £5 silver proof coin, a tribute to his legacy and the charitable foundation closest to his heart—The Prince’s Trust.
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The 1998 Prince Charles £5 coin is unique not only in design but also in its powerful message. The reverse, designed by Michael Noakes and Robert Elderton, features a finely detailed portrait of Prince Charles alongside an extraordinary thirty-three-word inscription, the longest ever used on a British coin. These words reflect the aims and ideals of The Prince’s Trust, highlighting its role in empowering young people through confidence, advice, enterprise, training, and opportunity.
Obverse: The obverse showcases the fourth definitive portrait of Queen Elizabeth II, designed by Ian Rank-Broadley. This effigy, introduced in 1998, depicts a mature and dignified Queen, with the surrounding inscription:
ELIZABETH II D G REG F D 1998 (Elizabeth II, by the Grace of God, Queen, Defender of the Faith).
Reverse: The reverse features a portrait of Prince Charles, above a ribbon inscribed with THE PRINCE’S TRUST. HELPING YOUNG PEOPLE TO SUCCEED. Surrounding this is the historic thirty-three-word inscription celebrating the Trust’s mission. Around the edge, the legend reads:
FIFTIETH BIRTHDAY OF HRH THE PRINCE OF WALES · 1948 · FIVE POUNDS · 1998.
Founded by Prince Charles in 1976, The Prince’s Trust was established to support disadvantaged young people in developing confidence, skills, and careers. Initially funded by the Prince’s personal severance pay from the Royal Navy, it has since helped over one million young people gain education, training, and employment opportunities.
The 1998 £5 coin is the first British coin dedicated to Prince Charles, making it a landmark piece in numismatic history. It serves as a testament to his lifelong commitment to social causes and his role as the longest-serving heir apparent in British history.
Struck to the highest proof quality, the 1998 £5 Prince Charles coin is an exceptional collectible.
- Metal: .925 sterling silver
- Weight: 28.28 grams (0.841 troy ounces)
- Diameter: 38.61 millimetres
- Face Value: £5
- Mintage: Limited to just 13,379 in this presentation
This coin stands out as a historically significant and beautifully crafted piece. Here’s why it remains a sought-after collectible:
Royal Milestone – Celebrates Prince Charles’ 50th birthday, marking his half-century of public service.
Unique Design – Features the longest inscription ever on a British coin, highlighting the core values of The Prince’s Trust.
Precious Metal Content – Struck in .925 sterling silver, ensuring lasting value.
Limited Mintage – With only 13,379 issued, it remains highly collectible.
Royal Portraits – Features both Prince Charles and Queen Elizabeth II, capturing two generations of the monarchy.
As the oldest and longest serving heir to the British throne, Prince Charles’ 1998 £5 coin is a fitting tribute to his decades of dedication. With its unparalleled design, historical importance, and precious metal composition, this sterling silver proof coin is a must-have for both numismatists and royal enthusiasts alike.
Whether as an investment, a symbol of admiration for the Prince’s charitable work, or simply a beautiful piece of British history, this coin remains one of the most distinctive and meaningful releases from the Royal Mint.
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