Royal Mint Great Britain Five Pounds Sterling Silver Proof Coin (Entente Cordiale Centenary)
Coin/Bullion · The Royal Mint (United Kingdom). Established over 1,100 years ago, it is the official mint of the UK and renowned for high-security coinage and prestigious proof editions.
Pattern: Entente Cordiale Centenary Anniversary issue (1904-2004). This specific reverse design features the 'Britannia' and 'Marianne' figures symbolizing the UK and France.
Type
Coin/Bullion
Maker
The Royal Mint (United Kingdom). Established over 1,100 years ago, it is the official mint of the UK and renowned for high-security coinage and prestigious proof editions.
Material
Sterling Silver (.925 fine silver), with the remaining 7.5% typically being copper. This is a 'Proof' strike, often issued in a protective acrylic capsule.
Dimensions
Diameter: 38.61 mm. Weight: 28.28 grams (0.909 troy oz). This is the standard 크라운 (Crown) size for British commemorative five-pound coins.
Description
A prestigious commemorative Five Pound silver proof coin. The design celebrates the historic 1904 agreement between the UK and France. One side depicts the likeness of Queen Elizabeth II, while the reverse shows the joint heraldic imagery of the two nations. It represents a peak of modern numismatic craft.
Key Features
Frosted cameo contrast against mirrored fields; .925 sterling silver composition; 2004 date stamp; heavy 28-gram weight.
Material & Composition
Sterling Silver (.925 fine silver), with the remaining 7.5% typically being copper. This is a 'Proof' strike, often issued in a protective acrylic capsule.
Finish & Decoration
Proof finish with frosted relief and mirror-like fields. The reverse features the Royal Arms or commemorative design (partially obscured), while the visible edge shows the year '04' and partial lettering.
Hallmarks & Stamps
While coins do not bear traditional jewelry hallmarks, it features the 'ELIZABETH II D G REG F D' inscription and 'FIVE POUNDS' denomination. The year '2004' is visible on the reverse rim.
Construction Details
Struck by high-pressure dies using a 'Proof' minting process. Proof coins are struck multiple times to ensure sharp detail and a brilliant surface, then handled with gloves to prevent oils from touching the silver.
Functional Features
Milled (reeded) edge to prevent silver clipping or shaving. The coin is housed in its original protective polymer capsule to prevent oxidation and physical wear.
Handle & Grip Details
None; intended to be held by the edges of the protective capsule or with cotton gloves to maintain its 'Fleur de Coin' status.
Craftsmanship Details
Precision die-struck with flawless symmetry. The 'Proof' quality indicates the highest standard of craftsmanship available in modern government minting.
Authentication Indicators
Correct diameter-to-thickness ratio; Royal Mint specific typography; sharp reeding on the edge; characteristic frosting on the relief parts of the design.
Origin & Manufacturing
Llantrisant, Wales, United Kingdom. Manufactured by the Royal Mint under royal prerogative.
Era & Period
Modern Era (Post-1953 / Elizabeth II). Issued in 2004 to celebrate the 100th anniversary of the 1904 Entente Cordiale agreement.
Age Estimate
Dated 2004.
Cultural Significance
Represents the diplomatic legacy of the UK and the tradition of using precious metal to mark significant national and international anniversaries.
Condition Notes
Appears to be in a protective capsule, preserving the 'Proof' finish. No visible milk spots or heavy toning. Grade: Excellent / Choice Proof.
Value Estimate
$40.00 - $70.00 USD (based on current silver spot price and numismatic premium for the original box/COA).
Care & Maintenance
Keep inside the acrylic capsule. Do not clean with silver dips or cloths as this will ruin the delicate proof finish. Store in a cool, dry place away from PVC-containing plastics.
Similar Pieces
The cupro-nickel (base metal) version of the same coin (worth face value) and the Gold Proof version (significantly higher value).
Interesting Facts
The Entente Cordiale ended centuries of intermittent conflict between Great Britain and France. This silver version was produced in much lower quantities than the standard cupro-nickel commemorative versions.