Posts by The Westminster Collection
What to Collect? A Guide for Every Coin Collector
Coin collecting is one of the most rewarding hobbies you can enjoy – whether you’re drawn to modern commemoratives, ancient treasures, or iconic gold coins. In this guide, we’ll explore the fascinating world of “what to collect” and help you discover the path that excites you most.
The Joy of Choice in Collecting
One of the greatest joys of coin collecting is freedom. You can collect what fascinates you – modern or historic coins, gold or silver, from the Royal Mint or mints around the world.
By joining The Westminster Collection mailing list, collectors receive updates, exclusive offers, and global mint news – keeping you one step ahead.
Specialising in Modern UK Coins
Many collectors begin their journey with modern UK coins. Affordable, uncirculated issues provide the thrill of discovery, with designs celebrating:
- Royal occasions – from weddings to jubilees.
- Sporting achievements – including the London 2012 Olympic 50p series.
- National heroes – such as Winston Churchill and other great Britons.
These coins often mark milestones in UK history, making them both affordable and meaningful.
The Allure of Historic Coins
For others, the fascination lies in history. Collecting ancient and historic coins provides a tangible link to past civilisations.
Roman coins, for example, are among the most popular. The Romans ruled Britain for over four centuries, striking millions of coins – many of which are still being discovered today. Imagine holding a coin that once passed through the hands of a legionnaire, a farmer, or a merchant nearly 2,000 years ago.
Learning as You Go
Part of the fun of coin collecting is the journey of discovery. There are countless books, websites, and tutorials dedicated to helping collectors learn more.
⚠️ Tip: Always cross-check your sources – especially when it comes to coin values and authenticity. Reliable knowledge helps you avoid costly mistakes.
Collecting Sovereigns – The Gold Standard
Perhaps the most iconic British coin is the sovereign. First struck in 1489 and reintroduced in 1817, the modern sovereign contains 7.988 grams of 22-carat gold. More than just a coin, it’s a piece of history.
While rising gold prices have made sovereigns more expensive, they remain a collector favourite – especially proof versions minted in limited numbers to mark special events. Collectors can also build full sovereign sets, including Half, Full, £2, and £5 Sovereigns. These are cherished as gifts, showpieces, and even long-term investments.
Discover our Sovereign collection
Pick Your Path
Ultimately, there is no single “right” way to collect. Some are drawn to modern designs, others to ancient relics, while many enjoy the prestige of gold sovereigns. Whatever your preference, there’s a path for every collector – and The Westminster Collection is here to guide you every step of the way, with expert knowledge, exclusive releases, and resources designed to make your collecting journey as enjoyable and rewarding as possible.
👉 Coming Next: Part III – Coin Collecting Made Easy
In our next guide, we’ll explore how to organise, protect, and display your collection for maximum enjoyment.
Ready to Start Your Journey?
Whether you’re just beginning or expanding your collection, coin collecting offers endless possibilities. Subscribe today to stay updated and join us in Part III of this series. Until then – happy collecting!
Why Collect Coins? A Journey Through History and Discovery
At The Westminster Collection, we believe coin collecting is more than owning money – it’s about uncovering history, geography, economics, and even politics. Every coin carries a story. From Roman emperors to modern commemoratives, coins record the journey of civilisation. When you hold a coin, you’re holding a piece of history.
How to Begin – Right From Your Pocket!
The best part? You don’t need to spend a fortune to start. Just reach into your pocket or purse. Everyday coins – pennies, pounds, and the occasional special edition 50p – are more than loose change. They’re miniature snapshots of our national story.
💡 Tip from our experts: Start with everyday UK coins – you might be surprised how quickly your collection grows.
What Can You Collect?
Once you’ve caught the collecting bug, the possibilities are endless. Some collectors focus on pre-decimal coins, others on gold sovereigns or Roman relics. Many enjoy commemorative issues celebrating historic events and anniversaries.
The beauty of this hobby? You collect what you want, when you want. Whether it’s building a themed set or chasing rare finds, we’ll help guide your journey.
Why Trust The Westminster Collection
Since 1987, we’ve been one of the UK’s leading coin specialists, helping collectors at every stage.
When you buy with us, you’ll enjoy:
- Exclusive pre-releases you won’t find anywhere else
- Guaranteed authenticity with every coin
- Collector-friendly benefits like interest-free credit and a 30-day return policy
With our expertise and assurance, you can collect with confidence.
Your Journey Begins
Whether you start with spare change or hunt down ancient treasures, coin collecting offers a lifetime of learning and discovery.
This is just the beginning. In the next part of our series, we’ll explore how to grow your collection and spot valuable finds.
👉 Subscribe to our updates to make sure you don’t miss Part II: Building Your Collection.
Portraits of a Queen: Celebrating Queen Elizabeth II with the 2026 Mary Gillick £5 Coin
In 2026, the United Kingdom will honour 100 years since the birth of Queen Elizabeth II. Across her record-breaking reign of seven decades, Her Late Majesty became one of the most enduring and celebrated monarchs in British history.
Now, The Royal Mint has unveiled the Portraits of a Queen Collection, a landmark series of £5 coins that revisit the five definitive effigies of Queen Elizabeth II that appeared on UK coinage throughout her reign.
The Mary Gillick Portrait – A Symbol of a New Era
The collection begins with the Mary Gillick portrait, designed in 1952 after the Queen’s accession. First seen on coins in 1953, this youthful depiction showed the new monarch wearing a laurel wreath, reflecting optimism and renewal at the dawn of a new Elizabethan era.
For this release, the portrait has been expertly remastered by Gordon Summers, Chief Engraver at The Royal Mint. His work ensures that the elegance and historical significance of Gillick’s design is preserved for collectors today.
Editions for Collectors
Whether you are a dedicated numismatist or a Royal enthusiast, the 2026 Mary Gillick £5 coin offers editions to suit every type of collection:
Silver Piedfort Proof £5
- Struck in Sterling Silver to Proof standard
- Double the weight and thickness of the standard Silver Proof coin
- Extremely limited – just 1,500 issued worldwide
- Obverse features the official coinage portrait of King Charles III, symbolically uniting mother and son
Brilliant Uncirculated £5 Coin Pack
- Struck to Brilliant Uncirculated standard, superior to circulating coinage
- Presented in official Royal Mint packaging
- Accessible price point at £17.50 (+p&p), ideal for collectors beginning their journey
Gold Proof Editions
- Premium Proof coins available in gold and silver
- Accompanied by bespoke presentation packaging exploring the Mary Gillick portrait
The gold proof edition is incredibly rare, and we are lucky enough to acquire it for our collectors. In fact, you won’t even find it on The Royal Mint’s website.
Why This Collection Matters
The Portraits of a Queen Collection is more than just a coin series — it’s a tribute to the life and legacy of Queen Elizabeth II. Over seven decades, five portraits told the story of her reign, marking her journey from youthful queen to Britain’s longest-serving monarch.
Key features of the series include:
- The first release in a five-coin collection honouring Queen Elizabeth II’s official portraits
- Coins remastered by Gordon Summers for modern collectors
- Availability in multiple editions for different collecting preferences
- Official Royal Mint packaging and informative booklets included
The 2026 Mary Gillick £5 coin offers collectors a unique opportunity to begin this historic collection with a design that symbolises the very start of Queen Elizabeth II’s reign. From the accessible Brilliant Uncirculated edition to the highly exclusive Silver Piedfort Proof, this release represents a piece of history to cherish for generations.
For coin collectors, Royal Mint enthusiasts, and admirers of the Queen’s legacy, this is the perfect way to celebrate Her Majesty’s centenary and secure the first chapter in the Portraits of a Queen Collection.