The Royal Mint has unveiled a tiny coin measuring 8mm across, the smallest coin created by the Royal Mint in nearly 1,000 years. The Britannia 2014 Fortieth Ounce Gold Proof Coin has been minted as part of a wider collection produced to celebrate Britannia, who first appeared on coins in Roman times.
Struck in 999.9 fine gold and perfected by the gleam of The Royal Mint’s Proof finish, this delicate coin is presented in sophisticated packaging, which reveals how Britannia has evolved through the ages, while a certificate confirms that this is a Limited Edition Presentation of just 9,650 and they are available to buy from the Royal Mint at £50.
Britannia has represented Britain for almost 2,000 years. Since she first appeared on Roman coins she has become synonymous with the coinage, the design remaining true to her character but evolving over centuries – she is the changing face of Britain. Now, in 2014, she returns in a contemporary interpretation by Royal Mint engraver Jody Clark.
Jody explains: “In approaching my design I started by researching what had gone before. Britannia has appeared in so many different compositions and with such a variety of symbols, I wanted my design to recall her history and tradition but with the elements surrounding Britannia, rather than weighing her down.
“Although some of the elements are motionless - the globe as a backdrop, the shield and trident placed at her side – I feel there is a dynamism to the design. There is a sense of movement as Britannia’s hair and robes flow, as does the mane of the lion, an iconic symbol of strength and pride that I was keen to include, and I hope that the two appear united as I intended them. Although the lion is at Britannia’s feet, its tail is curled around her, protective and tamed.”
2014 Britannia Gold One Fortieth Ounce Proof Coin
Technical Specification
Denomination: 50p
Maximum Coin Mintage: 10,000
Alloy: 9999 fine gold
Weight: 0.8g
Diameter: 8.00mm
Reverse Designer: Jody Clark
Obverse Designer: Ian Rank-Broadley FRBS
Quality: Proof
The Britannia collection for 2014 is being launched in July with a choice of individual coins and sets, struck in 999 fine silver or 999.9 fine gold. This will be followed by the release on an individual basis of the Fortieth-Ounce coin in September. Each coin is housed in a distinguished Royal Mint case, tailored to each coin or set, complemented by a booklet that reveals Britannia’s story and the inspiration behind the design. A Certificate of Authenticity will accompany the chosen item, confirming that it is part of a limited presentation.
