Catalog
| Issuer | United Kingdom |
|---|---|
| Year | 2005 |
| Type | Non-circulating coin |
| Value | 20 Pence |
| Currency | Pound sterling (decimalized, 1971-date) |
| Composition | Silver (.958) |
| Weight | 3.24 g |
| Diameter | 16.5 mm |
| Thickness | |
| Shape | Round |
| Technique | Milled |
| Orientation | Medal alignment ↑↑ |
| Engraver(s) | Obverse: Ian Rank-Broadley Reverse: Philip Nathan |
| In circulation to | |
| Reference(s) | KM#1085, Sp#BSC5 |
| Obverse description | Fourth crowned portrait of HM Queen Elizabeth II right, wearing the Girls of Great Britain tiara, legend around. |
|---|---|
| Obverse script | Latin |
| Obverse lettering |
ELIZABETH|II|D|G REG|FID|DEF |20|PENCE| IRB (Translation: Elizabeth the Second by the Grace of God Queen Defender of the Faith) |
| Reverse description | Seated figure of Britannia left with trident and shield, legend and date around. |
| Reverse script | Latin |
| Reverse lettering | TENTH OUNCE FINE SILVER 2005 BRITANNIA |
| Edge | Reeded |
| Mint | |
| Mintage |
2005 - Proof - 3 273 |
| Numisquare ID | 4930748770 |
| Additional information |
Historical Context: The 2005 20 Pence coin, bearing the 4th portrait of Queen Elizabeth II, hails from a period of established stability for the United Kingdom. While the 20p denomination was introduced in 1982, this specific 1/10 oz fine silver issue signifies a growing market for precious metal versions of circulating coinage. It highlights the enduring appeal of British numismatics and the monarch's continuous reign, reflecting continuity in the early 21st century.
Artistry: The obverse showcases Ian Rank-Broadley's "Fourth Portrait" of Queen Elizabeth II, a distinguished modern realist depiction from 1998. It portrays the monarch with a mature, dignified bearing, wearing the Girls of Great Britain and Ireland Tiara. The reverse, designed by Christopher Ironside, retains its original 1982 heraldic design: a contemporary interpretation of the crowned Tudor Rose, a potent symbol of the United Kingdom. This pairing effectively merges traditional symbolism with modern numismatic artistry.
Technical/Grading: Struck in .958 Britannia silver, this 3.24 gram, 16.5 mm coin typically exhibits exceptional strike quality, characteristic of collector issues. Key high-points for grading include the intricate details of the Queen's tiara and hair on the obverse, and the crown and individual petals of the Tudor Rose on the reverse. Collectors should seek full, sharp details, pristine fields, and strong cartwheel luster, indicative of its special production as a bullion or proof-like piece.