Catalog
| Issuer | Alderney |
|---|---|
| Year | 1992 |
| Type | Non-circulating coin |
| Value | 2 Pounds |
| Currency | Pound (decimalized, 1971-date) |
| Composition | Silver (.925) |
| Weight | 28.28 g |
| Diameter | 38.61 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#3a |
| Obverse description | Small crowned bust of Queen Elizabeth II facing right, date below |
|---|---|
| Obverse script | Latin |
| Obverse lettering | QUEEN ELIZABETH THE SECOND RDM 1992 |
| Reverse description | |
| Reverse script | Latin |
| Reverse lettering | ALDERNEY·TWO POUNDS·40th ANNIVERSARY OF REIGN EIIR |
| Edge | Reeded |
| Mint | |
| Mintage |
1992 - Proof - 5 000 |
| Numisquare ID | 8508137090 |
| Additional information |
Historical Context: This 1992 two-pound coin from Alderney commemorates the 40th anniversary of Queen Elizabeth II's reign, a pivotal milestone marking four decades of unwavering service. Ascending in 1952, her tenure spanned immense global and Commonwealth transformations. Alderney, a Crown Dependency, issued this piece to honor the enduring stability and continuity represented by the monarch, underscoring her role as a constant figurehead through considerable change.
Artistry: The obverse features Raphael Maklouf's elegant third portrait of Queen Elizabeth II, a distinguished effigy used on Commonwealth coinage from 1985 to 1997, noted for its dignified realism and classical proportions. The reverse design, specific to this anniversary, typically incorporates regal symbolism like a crown, the Royal Cypher, or a numeral '40', often rendered in a contemporary heraldic style. This blend of traditional iconography with modern numismatic artistry effectively celebrates the four-decade jubilee.
Technical/Grading: Struck in .925 sterling silver to proof standards, this coin exhibits superior technical qualities. Its 28.28 gram weight and 38.61 mm diameter provide ample canvas for intricate detail. High-points on the Maklouf effigy include the finely rendered hair, tiara jewels, and drapery folds. As a proof issue, it is expected to display deeply mirrored fields contrasting with frosted, sharply struck devices, indicative of a strong cameo effect and a full, crisp strike, particularly on the rim and lettering.