The 1999 £5 commemorative coin, issued by The Royal Mint, marks a momentous milestone in human history—the turn of the millennium. As the world prepared to transition from 1999 into 2000, debates arose over whether January 1, 2000, or January 1, 2001, truly signified the start of the new millennium. Regardless of the technical argument, the global celebration was set for the dawn of the year 2000, and the Royal Mint commemorated the event with a stunning silver proof £5 coin.
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Designed by Jeffrey Matthews, a renowned stamp engraver, the reverse of the coin captures the essence of time itself. At the centre is a clock face, its hands positioned just before midnight, straddling the transition between 1999 and 2000. This powerful imagery symbolizes the anticipation of a new era, as the world collectively counted down to an uncertain but hopeful future. The pivot of the clock hands is set precisely on the Greenwich Meridian, the global reference point for time zones. Behind the clock, an outline of the British Isles serves as a subtle nod to Britain’s historical role in timekeeping. Adding to the depth of the design, the Latin phrase “Anno Domini” is inscribed in the background, reinforcing the moment as a defining point in the modern calendar era.
Encircling the edge of the coin is a quote from Shakespeare’s The Tempest: “WHAT'S PAST IS PROLOGUE”. This phrase suggests that history lays the foundation for the future—a fitting sentiment for a coin marking the transition into the third millennium. It reflects on the achievements, struggles, and lessons of the past thousand years, serving as a reminder that the future is built upon what has come before.
The obverse of the coin features the fourth official portrait of Queen Elizabeth II, designed by Ian Rank-Broadley. Introduced in 1998, this depiction of the Queen is notable for its more realistic and mature portrayal, moving away from earlier stylized versions.
The 1999 £5 silver proof coin is part of a two-year release, with an identical design struck in both 1999 and 2000. These coins are among the most collectible Royal Mint releases, serving as a symbol of the global anticipation and excitement that surrounded the new millennium.
- Metal: .925 sterling silver
- Weight: 28.28 grams
- Diameter: 38.61 mm
- Fine Silver Content: 0.841 troy ounces
- Face Value: £5
- Mintage: 49,057 silver proof coins in 1999
- Finish: Proof, struck multiple times with polished dies for a sharp and detailed appearance
The 1999 £5 Millennium Coin is not just a commemorative piece—it is a historical snapshot of a once-in-a-thousand-year moment. With its symbolic design, historical inscriptions, and precision craftsmanship, it remains a highly sought-after addition for numismatists and collectors alike.
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