Way, way, way back, in 2003, The Royal Mint issued a this beautiful looking £5 silver proof coin to celebrate the 50th anniversary of Queen Elizabeth II’s coronation, a pivotal moment in British history. Known as the 2003 Coronation Jubilee £5 Crown, this coin offers a unique design that departs from traditional numismatic styles, making it a prized collector's item and a significant piece of royal memorabilia.
On 2 June 1953, at just 27 years old, Princess Elizabeth was crowned Queen Elizabeth II in a grand ceremony at Westminster Abbey. The event drew thousands of spectators to the streets of London, while millions more watched from home, making it the first coronation to be televised. Families and neighbours gathered around televisions to witness history unfold, an experience that united the nation in celebration.
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The ceremony began with the Queen leaving Buckingham Palace in the majestic Gold State Coach, making her way through cheering crowds to Westminster Abbey. This moment symbolised the start of a new era, and 50 years later, The Royal Mint marked the occasion with the release of the 2003 Coronation Jubilee £5 coin.
Breaking away from tradition, Tom Phillips, a contemporary British artist, designed both the obverse and reverse of the coin. His approach introduced a modern aesthetic that reflected the cultural evolution of the Queen’s reign.
- Obverse: The obverse features a linear portrait of Queen Elizabeth II in profile, inspired by an iconic image of Her Majesty on her way to the opening of the Houses of Parliament in 1953. Around the edge, a handwritten legend reads "ELIZABETH II · DEI GRATIA REGINA · F · D".
- Reverse: The reverse is equally distinctive, showcasing the textual motif "GOD SAVE THE QUEEN" in a handwritten font. This central design is encircled by the inscription "2003 · CORONATION JUBILEE · FIVE POUNDS".
This artistic departure from the traditional heraldic and classical designs of previous crowns highlights the innovative spirit of this commemorative coin.
The 2003 £5 coin was struck in .925 sterling silver, weighing 28.28 grams (equivalent to 0.841 troy ounces), with a diameter of 38.61mm. Released as a proof coin, it boasts exceptional quality and detail.
The coin was issued in a limited presentation of 28,758 coins, with an overall mintage cap of 50,000, making it a rare and highly sought-after collectible. Each coin was presented in a Royal Mint box, accompanied by a certificate of authenticity.
The 2003 Coronation Jubilee £5 coin is more than a beautiful piece of craftsmanship; it is a tangible tribute to the life and legacy of Queen Elizabeth II, who served as a symbol of continuity and stability throughout her reign. The coin’s innovative design by Tom Phillips reflects the Queen’s ability to adapt and modernise, while its high silver content underscores its enduring value as an investment.
This £5 silver proof coin commemorates not only a historic event but also a monarch who shaped the United Kingdom’s modern identity. With its unique design, limited mintage, and sterling silver composition, it remains a cherished addition to any collection of royal or precious metal coins.
Whether you are a history enthusiast, a numismatist, or someone looking to preserve wealth in tangible assets, the 2003 Coronation Jubilee £5 coin is a timeless piece that connects the past with the present.