Catalog
| Issuer | United Kingdom |
|---|---|
| Year | 2022 |
| Type | Non-circulating coin |
| Value | 500 Pounds |
| Currency | Pound sterling (decimalized, 1971-date) |
| Composition | Gold (.9999) |
| Weight | 156.3 g |
| Diameter | 50 mm |
| Thickness | |
| Shape | Round |
| Technique | Milled |
| Orientation | Medal alignment ↑↑ |
| Engraver(s) | Obverse: Jody Clark Reverse: George William de Saulles |
| In circulation to | |
| Reference(s) | Sp#BMGC4 |
| Obverse description | Fifth crowned portrait of Queen Elizabeth II right, wearing the George IV State Diadem, legend around. |
|---|---|
| Obverse script | Latin |
| Obverse lettering |
ELIZABETH II·D·G·REG·F·D·500 POUNDS·2022· J.C (Translation: Elizabeth the Second by the Grace of God Queen Defender of the Faith) |
| Reverse description | Uncrowned portrait of King Edward VII right, legend around. |
| Reverse script | Latin |
| Reverse lettering |
EDWARDVS VII DEI GRA : BRITT : OMN : REX FID : DEF : IND : IMP : (Translation: Edward the Seventh by the Grace of God King of all the Britains Defender of the Faith Emperor of India) |
| Edge | Reeded |
| Mint | |
| Mintage |
2022 - Proof - |
| Numisquare ID | 1082720910 |
| Additional information |
Historical Context: Issued in 2022, this 500 Pounds gold proof coin uniquely bridges two significant eras of the British monarchy. Struck during Queen Elizabeth II's Platinum Jubilee year, it features her effigy on the obverse while commemorating King Edward VII on its reverse. This juxtaposition highlights monarchical continuity and offers a retrospective glance at early 20th-century British history, making it a key commemorative piece from Elizabeth II's later reign, celebrating a predecessor whose reign marked a period of significant social and political change.
Artistry: The obverse typically showcases a contemporary portrait of Queen Elizabeth II, likely by Jody Clark, rendered with modern realism and dignified elegance. The reverse, depicting Edward VII, draws upon historical numismatic precedents or a newly commissioned interpretation, reflecting a neo-classical or early 20th-century artistic sensibility. Intricate detailing on both effigies, from regal crowns to sculpted drapery, exemplifies the Royal Mint’s commitment to capturing each monarch's distinct character and the artistic styles prevalent during their respective eras within a unified, compelling design.
Technical/Grading: As a gold proof, this coin exhibits exceptional strike quality, characterized by deeply mirrored fields contrasting sharply with frosted, highly detailed devices. Key high-points for grading include the intricate details of the monarchs' hair, crowns, and regalia, which should be fully struck without weakness. The substantial 156.3-gram weight and 50 mm diameter provide an expansive canvas, allowing for a high-relief strike and superb definition, typical of the Royal Mint's master craftsmanship in .9999 fine gold, ensuring a pristine and visually stunning specimen.