Catalog
| Issuer | Alderney |
|---|---|
| Year | 1992 |
| Type | Non-circulating coin |
| Value | 2 Pounds |
| Currency | Pound (decimalized, 1971-date) |
| Composition | Copper-nickel |
| Weight | 28.28 g |
| Diameter | 38.5 mm |
| Thickness | 3.4 mm |
| Shape | Round |
| Technique | Milled |
| Orientation | Medal alignment ↑↑ |
| Engraver(s) | Obverse: Raphael David Maklouf Reverse: Willem Vis |
| In circulation to | |
| Reference(s) | KM#3 |
| Obverse description | Small crowned bust of Queen Elizabeth II facing right, date below |
|---|---|
| Obverse script | Latin |
| Obverse lettering | QUEEN ELIZABETH THE SECOND 1992 |
| Reverse description | A sailing ship on the water, with crowned initials below within wreath |
| Reverse script | Latin |
| Reverse lettering | ALDERNEY·TWO POUNDS·40th ANNIVERSARY OF REIGN EIIR |
| Edge | Reeded |
| Mint | |
| Mintage |
1992 - - |
| Numisquare ID | 3874226630 |
| Additional information |
Historical Context: The 1992 Alderney Two Pounds coin commemorates the 40th Anniversary of Queen Elizabeth II's accession to the throne. Acceding in 1952, her four-decade reign by 1992 symbolized remarkable continuity and stability for the United Kingdom and its Crown Dependencies, including Alderney. This issuance from Alderney, a self-governing bailiwick, highlights the enduring constitutional link and shared reverence for the monarch across the Channel Islands, reflecting a significant royal milestone in its coinage.
Artistry: The obverse features Raphael Maklouf's third definitive portrait of Queen Elizabeth II, crowned and facing right, consistent with modern British medallic tradition. The reverse, designed by Norman Sillman, elegantly displays the Royal Cypher 'EIIR' surmounted by St. Edward's Crown, flanked by the English rose and Scottish thistle. The dates '1952' and '1992' frame the central motif, clearly marking the celebratory period. The design exemplifies commemorative numismatic art, blending traditional heraldry with clear historical commemoration.
Technical/Grading: Struck in copper-nickel, 38.5mm in diameter and weighing 28.28 grams, this coin generally exhibits a robust strike. Key high-points for grading include the intricate details of the Queen's crown and hair on the obverse, and the fine lines of the St. Edward's Crown and floral emblems on the reverse. Collectors should seek full definition in these areas, as weakness can occur on highest relief elements. Planchet quality and absence of bag marks are crucial for higher grades, particularly for uncirculated examples.