Posts Tagged ‘Queen Elizabeth II’
Rarest £2 Coins in the UK
What are the Rarest UK £2 Coins in circulation? Find out if you have any below.
For over 25 years, the UK £2 coin has been a symbol of national pride and history, quietly circulating among us and occasionally surprising collectors with its rarity. Let us guide you through some of the rarest £2 coins ever produced for UK circulation.
1. Commonwealth Games, Northern Ireland 2002
Mintage: 485,500
The rarest £2 coin in circulation, this gem is a tribute to the 2002 Commonwealth Games. It features the Ulster Banner with a victorious figure, making it a must-have for collectors. Its extremely low mintage of just 485,500 cements its position as the ultimate treasure in UK £2 coinage.
2. Commonwealth Games, Wales 2002
Mintage: 588,500
This rare £2 coin celebrates the achievements of Welsh athletes during the 2002 Commonwealth Games. Featuring the Welsh flag alongside a figure in motion, it’s a standout piece in the Commonwealth series and a prized find for collectors.
3. WW1 Royal Navy Fifth Portrait 2015
Mintage: 650,000
Honouring the Royal Navy’s role in the First World War, David Rowlands’ depiction of HMS Royal Oak is both powerful and poignant. The edge inscription, “THE SURE SHIELD OF BRITAIN,” reinforces the coin’s tribute to national resilience. Featuring the fifth and final definitive coinage portrait of Queen Elizabeth II, this rare £2 coin is steeped in historical significance.
4. Britannia Fifth Portrait 2015
Mintage: 650,000
A modern take on an age-old symbol, Antony Dufort’s design brings Britannia back to UK circulation after a long absence. Replacing the Technology design that had graced £2 coins since 1997, this £2 release became an instant collector’s favourite, blending tradition with modern artistry.
5. Commonwealth Games, England 2002
Mintage: 650,000
The England edition of the 2002 Commonwealth Games coin features St. George’s Cross alongside a dynamic figure in motion. Matthew Bonaccorsi’s design embodies national pride, and its limited mintage ensures its status as a cherished piece among collectors.
6. Commonwealth Games, Scotland 2002
Mintage: 771,750
The 2002 Commonwealth Games in Manchester were a milestone for UK sports. The Scotland edition of this commemorative coin series, designed by Matthew Bonaccorsi, features a vibrant figure holding a banner, symbolising celebration and unity. The edge inscription, “SPIRIT OF FRIENDSHIP, MANCHESTER 2002,” perfectly captures the event’s camaraderie.
7. Olympic Games Handover 2012
Mintage: 845,000
This coin commemorates the handover of the Olympic Games from London to Rio de Janeiro. Designed by Jonathan Olliffe, it features the passing of a baton between two hands, framed by the flags of the UK and Brazil. The edge inscription, “I CALL UPON THE YOUTH OF THE WORLD,” echoes the global spirit of the Olympics.
8. Olympic Games 2008
Mintage: 910,000
Celebrating the centenary of the 1908 London Olympics, this coin showcases a striking running track design by Thomas T. Docherty. With the years 1908 and 2008 integrated into the design and the edge inscription reading “THE 4TH OLYMPIAD LONDON,” it’s a dynamic tribute to the enduring legacy of the Olympic Games.
9. Olympic Games Handover 2008
Mintage: 918,000
Designed by Thomas T. Docherty, this coin captures the symbolic passing of the Olympic flag, marking the transition from Beijing 2008 to London 2012. The reverse design features hands exchanging the flag, with the years boldly displayed. Encircling the edge is the inspiring inscription, “I CALL UPON THE YOUTH OF THE WORLD,” emphasising the unity and potential of the games.
Have you got one of the coins featured above?
Each of these £2 coins represents a unique story, from sporting milestones to national symbols, making them more than just currency—they are pieces of history in your pocket. Keep an eye on your change; you never know when you might uncover one of these hidden treasures!
Celebrating Dorothy Wilding: The Visionary Behind Queen Elizabeth II’s Iconic Portraits
Dorothy Wilding, a name synonymous with timeless elegance and photographic mastery, played a significant role in shaping the image of one of the world’s most recognised monarchs: Queen Elizabeth II. Known for her simple yet striking photographic style, Wilding’s portraits of the Queen became the foundation for a new era of royal imagery.
In early 1952, just twenty days after Queen Elizabeth II’s accession to the throne, Wilding was granted the honour of conducting the first official photographic sitting. The Queen’s new role demanded an image that would grace coins, banknotes, and stamps, becoming a lasting symbol of her reign. Wilding, already experienced as a royal photographer, had previously captured official portraits at King George VI’s Coronation in 1937 and had been awarded the first Royal Warrant for a female photographer in 1943.
On February 26, 1952, Wilding photographed the young Queen wearing magnificent Norman Hartnell gowns and royal jewelry, such as the Diamond Diadem and the Girls of Great Britain and Ireland tiara. With an elegant simplicity, she utilized plain black and white backdrops, drawing all attention to the poise and grace of her subject. Out of the fifty-nine images taken during that session, one particular portrait became an icon. This three-quarter bust image of the Queen was selected for the 2½ pence stamp, released for the 1953 Coronation. The first stamp to depict Elizabeth II featured this portrait, and these stamps became commonly known as “Wildings.” The Queen’s head is turned slightly towards the viewer in a three-quarter profile, adding to the elegance of Wilding’s work.
For the ½d, 1d, 1½d, and 2d value stamps, the portrait was adorned with a decorative floral design created by Enid Marx. When we say a stamp has a value in “d,” this means its value in pennies. For example The notation “1½d” refers to one and a half (1.5) old pence. The “d” stands for “denarius,” a term used in pre-decimal British currency to denote pennies. Before 1971, the UK used pounds, shillings, and pence, with 12 pennies to the shilling and 20 shillings to the pound, totaling 240 pence in each pound. The currency change in the 1970s, known as decimalisation, significantly impacted stamps.
The stamps featuring this iconic portrait remained in circulation until 1971, and the photograph itself was hung in British Embassies around the world. Wilding’s work not only captured the Queen’s regal aura but also set a precedent for how the monarchy was represented on currency and official memorabilia. Her artistry continues to be celebrated and remembered as a key component of Britain’s visual heritage.
Introducing the Dorothy Wilding Silver Commemorative and Postage Stamp Set
To honour the legacy of Dorothy Wilding and her contribution to royal history, we are excited to present the First Dorothy Wilding Silver Commemorative and original postage stamp set. This exclusive offering celebrates the artistry of Wilding and the iconic image of Queen Elizabeth II that shaped an era.
This set features a beautifully designed half-ounce pure silver commemorative, adorned with an officially licensed portrait of Queen Elizabeth II by Dorothy Wilding. The striking image is courtesy of the National Portrait Gallery, London, and reflects the timeless elegance that made Wilding’s photographs so celebrated. The commemorative captures the Queen’s grace and the iconic simplicity of Wilding’s style, making it a collector’s treasure.
Accompanying the commemorative is an authentic Dorothy Wilding postage stamp, carefully selected from the 1952–1968 period. These stamps, available in vibrant colours and various denominations, offer a glimpse into the era when Wilding’s portraits of the Queen became a part of everyday British life.
But a limited quantity of just 250 sets being released this year, you will need to be quick to secure yours before they are all gone.
This exclusive collectible not only commemorates the artistry of Wilding but also celebrates the enduring legacy of Queen Elizabeth II. Each set includes a Certificate of Authenticity, affirming its place in history and the prestige of owning such a meaningful piece of royal heritage.
The Memories of Her Majesty at Christmas Collection
Christmas has always been a time for reflection, family, and cherished traditions. For Queen Elizabeth II, it was no different. Her life, entwined with this festive season, was marked by poignant moments that captured the essence of her reign and personal warmth. This year, as we celebrate her memory, we invite you to journey through these moments with our exclusive commemorative collection that captures five special Christmas memories from Her Majesty’s life.
A Young Princess Singing Carols with Her Sister
Long before her ascension to the throne, the young Princess Elizabeth shared precious Christmas moments with her sister, Princess Margaret. The image of the two young royals singing carols together evokes the innocence and joy of childhood during the festive season. This commemorative celebrates the timeless tradition of Christmas carols and the joyful spirit of youth.
The Queen’s Speech
In 1952, Queen Elizabeth II delivered her very first Christmas speech over the radio. A solemn yet hopeful message, she marked the beginning of what would become a beloved tradition for generations. This commemorative celebrates that historic moment, reminding us of her unwavering dedication and connection with the nation, even at such an early stage in her reign.
Family at Windsor Castle
The late 1960s saw the Queen spending Christmas with her family at Windsor Castle. These were times of warmth, laughter, and the simple pleasures of togetherness. Our commemorative captures the joy of these festive family gatherings, symbolising the importance of unity and the deep family bonds the Queen cherished.
Visiting the Church of St Mary Magdalene
One of the Queen’s most cherished Christmas traditions was attending the service at the Church of St Mary Magdalene on the Sandringham Estate. Surrounded by family and well-wishers, these visits became a hallmark of her reign during the festive season. This commemorative captures these precious moments from the 1990s, symbolising her devotion and the enduring connection she shared with the community.
Riding in the Snow at Sandringham
An avid equestrian, Queen Elizabeth II often embraced the wintry landscapes of Sandringham. The image of her riding through the snow exemplifies her love for nature and tradition. This commemorative pays tribute to her resilient, adventurous spirit and her love for horses, showing a side of the Queen that many have admired over the years.
A Collection to Treasure This Christmas
As we remember these cherished moments, we invite you to honour Queen Elizabeth II’s legacy with this exclusive collection. Each piece tells a story of Christmases past, capturing the spirit of Her Majesty’s life and reign during this special time of year.
This Christmas, let her memory warm your hearts and inspire you to cherish your own festive moments with loved ones. Visit our website today to explore the collection and keep the Queen’s spirit alive in your home this holiday season.
