2 Pounds - Elizabeth II 5th portrait, Magna Carta, Silver Piedfort
| Issuer | United Kingdom |
|---|---|
| Year | 2015 |
| Type | Non-circulating coin |
| Value | 2 Pounds |
| Currency | Pound sterling (decimalized, 1971-date) |
| Composition | Silver (.925) |
| Weight | 24 g |
| Diameter | 28.4 mm |
| Thickness | |
| Shape | Round |
| Technique | Milled |
| Orientation | Medal alignment ↑↑ |
| Engraver(s) | Obverse: Jody Clark Reverse: John Bergdahl |
| In circulation to | |
| Reference(s) | Sp#K36A |
| Obverse description | Fifth crowned portrait of HM Queen Elizabeth II right, wearing the George IV State Diadem, legend around. |
|---|---|
| Obverse script | |
| Obverse lettering |
ELIZABETH II·D·G·REG·F·D·TWO POUNDS·2015· J.C (Translation: Elizabeth the Second by the Grace of God Queen Defender of the Faith) |
| Reverse description | King John flanked by figures representing the clergy on one side and the barons on the other, with legend above and dates below. |
| Reverse script | |
| Reverse lettering | MAGNA · CARTA JB · 1215-2015 · |
| Edge | Milled with incuse lettering |
| Mint | |
| Mintage |
2015 - Proof - 1 988 |
| Numisquare ID | 1441449160 |
| Additional information |
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Historical Context: The 2015 United Kingdom 2 Pounds Silver Piedfort coin commemorates the 800th anniversary of the Magna Carta, a pivotal document signed in 1215 by King John. Issued during the latter part of Queen Elizabeth II's reign, this coin celebrates a foundational text of constitutional law and human rights, whose principles profoundly influenced legal systems globally. Its issuance underscores the enduring significance of the Magna Carta to British heritage and international jurisprudence.
Artistry: The obverse features Jody Clark's fifth definitive portrait of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, introduced in 2015. This modern, realistic effigy depicts the Queen facing right, adorned with the George IV State Diadem. The reverse, designed by John Bergdahl, masterfully illustrates King John affixing his seal to the Magna Carta, surrounded by a medieval-inspired border and script. Bergdahl's design effectively blends historical accuracy with numismatic artistry, capturing the event's gravity.
Technical/Grading: Struck as a Piedfort, this coin boasts a thicker flan, weighing 24 grams in .925 sterling silver, significantly heavier than its standard counterpart. Key high-points for examination include the intricate details of the Queen's diadem and hair on the obverse. On the reverse, critical areas are the clarity of King John's features, the precise rendering of the Magna Carta text, and the definition within the decorative border. A superior strike exhibits full detail across these elements, demonstrating sharp relief and excellent field luster, indicative of a well-executed Piedfort strike.