Catalog
| Issuer | United Kingdom |
|---|---|
| Year | 2020 |
| Type | Non-circulating coin |
| Value | 2 Pounds |
| Currency | Pound sterling (decimalized, 1971-date) |
| Composition | Silver (.999) |
| Weight | 31.1 g |
| Diameter | 38.6 mm |
| Thickness | 2.8 mm |
| Shape | Round |
| Technique | Milled |
| Orientation | Medal alignment ↑↑ |
| Engraver(s) | Obverse: Jody Clark Reverse: Chris Facey |
| In circulation to | |
| Reference(s) | Sp#QN2A, KM#1838 |
| Obverse description | Fifth crowned portrait of HM Queen Elizabeth II right, wearing the George IV State Diadem, legend around. |
|---|---|
| Obverse script | Latin |
| Obverse lettering |
ELIZABETH II·D·G·REG·F·D·2 POUNDS· J.C (Translation: Elizabeth the Second by the Grace of God Queen Defender of the Faith) |
| Reverse description | Freddie Mercury`s grand piano, Roger Taylor`s bass drum, Brian May`s guitar and John Deacon`s bass. The keys on the piano are pressed down in the opening notes of Bohemian Rhapsody, legend repeated around. |
| Reverse script | Latin |
| Reverse lettering | QUEEN CF 1 OZ FINE SILVER 999 2020 |
| Edge | Milled |
| Mint | |
| Mintage |
2020 - - 25 000 |
| Numisquare ID | 1002472640 |
| Additional information |
Historical Context: Issued in 2020, this Elizabeth II 2 Pounds coin commemorates the iconic British rock band Queen. As part of The Royal Mint's "Music Legends" series, it reflects a significant modern numismatic trend under Queen Elizabeth II, honoring popular culture alongside traditional historical subjects. This era broadened commemorative themes, appealing to a diverse global audience and celebrating the United Kingdom's profound impact on music and contemporary heritage.
Artistry: Designed by Chris Facey, the reverse presents a dynamic and instantly recognizable tribute to Queen. In a modern, illustrative style, it features the instruments of the four band members: Brian May's Red Special guitar, Roger Taylor's Ludwig drum kit, John Deacon's Fender Precision Bass, and Freddie Mercury's Bechstein grand piano, with the band's logo central. The piano keys are notably depicted, representing "Bohemian Rhapsody's" opening chords. The obverse features Jody Clark's fifth definitive portrait of Queen Elizabeth II.
Technical/Grading: Struck in .999 fine silver, 31.1 grams, 38.6 millimeters, this coin typically exhibits a high-quality strike. Key high-points for evaluation include the intricate details of guitar strings, drum components, and individual piano keys on the reverse. On the obverse, sharpness in the Queen's diadem and hair provides critical grading indicators. Collectors should seek full separation of design elements, crisp edges, and an unblemished field, indicative of a well-preserved brilliant uncirculated or proof strike.