2 Pounds - Charles III Bond Films of the 1980s, 1oz Fine Silver

Issuer United Kingdom
Year 2024
Type Non-circulating coin
Value 2 Pounds
Currency Pound sterling (decimalized, 1971-date)
Composition Silver (.999)
Weight 31.21 g
Diameter 38.61 mm
Thickness
Shape Round
Technique Milled
Orientation Medal alignment ↑↑
Engraver(s)
In circulation to
Reference(s)
Obverse description Uncrowned portrait of King Charles III left, legend and date around.
Obverse script Latin
Obverse lettering CHARLES III·D·G·REX·F·D·2 POUNDS· MJ
(Translation: Charles III by the Grace of God King Defender of the Faith)
Reverse description A depiction of James Bond`s acrostar airplane from the movie `Octopussy`, set against a background of James Bond titles from the 1980s and the inscription `007`. Microtext legend around.
Reverse script Latin
Reverse lettering 007 BOND OF THE 80`S·FINE SILVER·1OZ·999·2025
Edge Reeded
Mint
Mintage 2024 - Bullion -
Numisquare ID 1146449930
Additional information

Historical Context: The 2024 Two Pounds 'Bond Films of the 1980s' issue is a significant example from the early reign of King Charles III, reflecting the Royal Mint's contemporary commemorative program. This piece masterfully intertwines traditional monarchical numismatics with a profound cultural touchstone: the enduring James Bond film franchise. As non-circulating legal tender, it underscores the United Kingdom's established tradition of celebrating national heritage through precious metal issues that embrace both historical gravitas and popular culture.

Artistry: Artistically, the obverse presents Martin Jennings' definitive coinage portrait of King Charles III, notable for its dignified, uncrowned depiction. The reverse, dedicated to 'Bond Films of the 1980s,' typically showcases a contemporary illustrative style, designed to evoke iconic imagery from that era's Bond movies. While the specific reverse engraver is often indicated by subtle initials, the overall aesthetic balances the monarchical gravitas with a dynamic, cinematic reverse, characteristic of modern Royal Mint thematic series.

Technical/Grading: For optimal grading, intense scrutiny is required for the pristine condition of the expansive, mirrored fields, characteristic of a proof strike, given its .999 silver composition (31.21g, 38.61mm). High points of King Charles III’s effigy and the intricate reverse details must exhibit full strike and absence of friction. Paramount are the absence of hairlines, contact marks, and 'milk spots' on the silver surfaces, alongside a strong, uninterrupted cameo contrast between frosted devices and polished fields.

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