Posts Tagged ‘£5 Coin’
Discover the 2025 Annual Sets
As we welcome 2025, there’s no better way to mark the occasion than with The official brand new 2025 Annual Sets — a stunning collection of coins celebrating the people, places, and events that have shaped British history. Each coin captures a defining moment, bringing history to life in a way that feels more meaningful than ever at this time of year.
Available on 2nd January 2025
Here’s a closer look at the stories behind these commemorative coins:
Marking the Birth of Queen Elizabeth The Queen Mother
Queen Elizabeth The Queen Mother is celebrated for her steadfast resilience and unwavering support during some of the most challenging times in British history, including the Second World War. As a pillar of strength to her husband, George VI, and her daughter, Queen Elizabeth II, her influence spanned over a century. The £5 coin dedicated to her features a reverse design with a portrait that previously graced the coin celebrating her 80th birthday in 1980—a timeless tribute to her enduring legacy.
200 Years of the Modern Railway
On 27 September 1825, George Stephenson’s Locomotion No. 1 revolutionised travel by transporting hundreds of passengers between Shildon, Darlington, and Stockton. This historic journey not only marked the dawn of the railway age but also transformed industries and cultures worldwide. The £2 coin commemorating this milestone captures the essence of that pivotal moment with a reverse design depicting Locomotion No. 1, paired with the edge inscription, “ACTIVE · LOCOMOTION NO 1.” This coin serves as a tribute to two centuries of innovation and progress in rail travel.
350 Years of The Royal Observatory, Greenwich
Founded in 1675 by Charles II, the Royal Observatory, Greenwich, has been a beacon of scientific progress, defining global navigation and timekeeping. The £2 coin commemorates its 350th anniversary with a reverse design that integrates the Shepherd Gate Clock, the constellation Ursa Minor, Polaris, and the iconic meridian line against a globe backdrop. Its edge inscription, “PERFECTING THE ART OF NAVIGATION,” underscores the Observatory’s enduring legacy.
Celebrating the Red Arrows
Since their inception in 1964, the Red Arrows have dazzled millions with their breath-taking aerobatic displays. Representing the precision and agility of the Royal Air Force, the team has performed nearly 5,000 displays across 57 countries. The 50p coin celebrating the Red Arrows features the sleek Hawk T1 aircraft, a tribute to the team’s inspiring legacy and their continued excellence in aviation.
Remembering the Stories of the Second World War
The Second World War was a defining chapter in British history, with contributions from soldiers, factory workers, and citizens alike. The 50p coin honours this collective effort with a reverse design showcasing the 1939–45 Star, Defence Medal, and War Medal—symbols of the bravery and resilience demonstrated during the war. Each medal tells a story of personal sacrifice and national unity that shaped the Britain we know today.
The Obverse: His Majesty King Charles III
Every coin in the 2025 Annual Sets bears the official coinage portrait of His Majesty King Charles III. Designed by Martin Jennings in 2022, this is the first definitive coinage portrait of
His Majesty The King to appear on coins, symbolising the continuity of the monarchy and the evolving story of the United Kingdom.
A Testament to British History and Craftsmanship
Each coin is meticulously crafted, embodying The Royal Mint’s dedication to excellence and storytelling. These sets not only celebrate the past but also inspire future generations to cherish and learn from Britain’s rich cultural heritage.
Available on 2nd January 2025
As stated by the Royal Mint
The history of the iconic Buckingham Palace
Buckingham Palace has been the official residence of the British monarch since 1837, including our very own Charles III and Elizabeth II.
It is quite simply one of the most iconic buildings in the world. From state visits to the daily Changing of the Guard, to the annual garden parties and national celebrations; everyone recognises this picturesque building.
But, did you know that Buckingham Palace was initially called Buckingham House?
Read on to explore the history of this great palace, which features on a brand-new UK £5 coin…
Buckingham House – 1761
In 1761, George III purchased Buckingham House for his wife, Queen Charlotte. Close to St James’ Palace, it proved the perfect home for the Queen who gave birth to 14 out of her 15 children there.
But, with the accession of George IV in 1820, he decided that he wanted to reconstruct the house eventually agreeing with his architect to turn it into a palace.
At the time, George IV told parliament that the reconstruction would cost near to £450,000 – that’s about £55 million today!
The house was doubled in size, adding new suites and state rooms, and the facing was curated from Bath stone, echoing a French neo-classical influence.
In fact, the rooms that were designed over 200 years ago stand the same in the current day.
Credit: Royal Collection Trust https://www.rct.uk/collection/922137/buckingham-house-the-east-entrance-front-1819
Queen Victoria – 1837
It wasn’t until 1837, when Queen Victoria ascended the throne, that Buckingham Palace became the official residence of a British monarch.
She was the first monarch to leave from the palace for her coronation, but her marriage to Prince Albert presented some issues. Namely that the palace didn’t have enough nurseries. It therefore went through another construction phase – redesigning some of the inside alongside updating the frontage after soot had ruined it throughout the industrial revolution.
Present Day – 2024
Nowadays, Buckingham Palace is the administrative headquarters of the monarch, as well as the Sovereign’s residence. The palace has 775 rooms, including 19 state rooms, 52 bedrooms and 78 bathrooms.
Every year more than 50,000 people visit as guests for state banquets, lunches, dinners, receptions and garden parties.
Credit: Royal Collection Trust https://www.rct.uk/visit/buckingham-palace
Brand-New UK £5 Coin
To honour the incredible history and sentiment of this incredible British landmark, a brand-new UK £5 coin has been issued.
But stocks are extremely limited, especially of the rare Silver Piedfort edition of which only 800 are available worldwide.
Click here to view the range and secure your memento today >>
Explore the design of the 80th Anniversary D-Day Coins
This year marks the 80th anniversary of D-Day, a day which many historians say turned the tide of World War 2. To honour the courage and sacrifice of the thousands of men and women involved, a special coin range has been released. The main coin design showcases three powerful features: the Spitfire Mk IX, HMS Warspite, and the Sherman Firefly Tank.
Click here to view the brand new coin range commemorating the 80th anniversary of D-Day.
The Sherman Firefly Tank, an upgraded version of the standard Sherman, was a critical component of the Allied armoured divisions landing on the beaches of Normandy.
Explore more about the Sherman Firefly – Watch Our Sherman Firefly Video Now
A veteran battleship with a vast history, HMS Warspite steamed into the waters off Normandy to unleash its formidable firepower. During the Normandy landings Warspite was the very first ship to fire upon German coastal defences with its heavy artillery.
Discover HMS Warspite’s Remarkable Story – Watch the HMS Warspite Video Now
The Spitfire MK IX, a legendary aircraft synonymous with the Royal Air Force, played a crucial role in the Normandy landings. Designed for speed and agility, the Spitfire provided essential air cover during Operation Overlord.
Uncover more about the role of the Spitfire MK IX – Watch the Spitfire MK IX Video Now
Map of Normandy/France:
The background design features a detailed map of Normandy, with a special focus on the historic beaches of Gold and Sword. These beaches witnessed some of the fiercest fighting on D-Day, as Allied forces sought to establish a crucial foothold on continental Europe. The map design highlights the strategic significance of these locations in the overall success of the Normandy landings.
The Spitfire Mk IX, HMS Warspite, and the Sherman Firefly Tank, along with the map of Normandy, come together on this coin design to tell a powerful story of unity, courage, and the triumph of good over evil.
Click here to view the brand new coin range commemorating the 80th anniversary of D-Day.
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