The Kings and Queens of England Silver Mini-Coin Collection, Danbury Mint
Coin/Bullion (Commemorative Mini-Medal Set) · The Danbury Mint, a division of MBI Inc. Known for high-quality collectibles, medallic art, and limited edition commemorative sets founded in 1969 in Westport, Connecticut.
Pattern: Kings and Queens of England Silver Mini-Coin Collection; introduced circa 1990-1991; discontinued production series.
Type
Coin/Bullion (Commemorative Mini-Medal Set)
Maker
The Danbury Mint, a division of MBI Inc. Known for high-quality collectibles, medallic art, and limited edition commemorative sets founded in 1969 in Westport, Connecticut.
Material
Sterling Silver (.925) purity. Each individual miniature coin is minted in solid sterling silver. The set is housed in a wood-framed display case with a glass top and red velvet-lined interior.
Dimensions
Mini-coins are approximately 10-12mm in diameter. Individual weight is roughly 0.5 to 1.0 gram each. The total silver weight (ASW) for a full set of 40-50 coins is approximately 1-1.5 troy ounces.
Description
An educational and historical numismatic display featuring miniature replicas of the coinage portraiture of England's monarchs. Each sterling silver medallion captures the likeness of a different ruler, spanning over a thousand years of British history from the House of Wessex to the House of Windsor. The set combines the prestige of precious metal with historical scholarship, presented in a handsome gentleman's library-style display case.
Key Features
Miniature scale die-striking; comprehensive historical scope; original magnifying glass accessory; sterling silver fineness; themed red velvet commemorative display.
Material & Composition
Sterling Silver (.925) purity. Each individual miniature coin is minted in solid sterling silver. The set is housed in a wood-framed display case with a glass top and red velvet-lined interior.
Finish & Decoration
Proof-like finish with frosted relief (cameo effect) on a mirror-polished field. Each medallion features a relief portrait of a British monarch from the historical lineage (e.g., King Alfred, William the Conqueror, Elizabeth II).
Hallmarks & Stamps
Usually stamped 'STERLING' or '925' on the edge or reverse of each coin. The collection is accompanied by a brass identification plaque on the inner velvet and typically includes a Certificate of Authenticity from the Danbury Mint.
Construction Details
Precision die-struck medallic art. Machine-minted using high-pressure presses to achieve sharp detail on a miniature scale. The case is constructed of wood with a carved 'dog-tooth' or 'notched' decorative border.
Functional Features
Display-oriented; features a magnifying glass (visible in the upper right) to allow the viewer to see the fine detail of the miniature portraits. The case has a hinged glass lid for protection and viewing.
Handle & Grip Details
Case features a small brass thumb-latch clasp for opening. The included handheld magnifying glass has a small black or wood handle for delicate gripping.
Craftsmanship Details
High-quality machine minting. The detail on such small planchets requires high-tonnage presses and master-engraved dies to ensure the facial features of the monarchs are recognizable.
Authentication Indicators
Clearly labeled Danbury Mint brass plaque; consistent diameter and strike quality across all medallions; consistent sterling silver luster and lack of copper-bleed (plating wear).
Origin & Manufacturing
Origin: United States (Danbury Mint is based in CT). Minting was likely outsourced to a private minting facility specializing in precious metal tokens.
Era & Period
Modern Commemorative (Late 20th Century). Designed in a Traditionalist style to mimic 18th and 19th-century numismatic portraiture.
Age Estimate
Circa 1990-1995 based on the style of the Danbury Mint logo and the inclusion of the Penn Mar Silver Mini-Coins documentation visible behind the velvet.
Cultural Significance
Reflects the 20th-century boom in 'collectible' silver where private mints marketed historical sets to the middle class as both a hobby and a 'hedge' against inflation/store of value.
Condition Notes
Very Good/Excellent. The coins show bright luster with minimal toning. The case shows minor surface wear on the wood. Note that several coins are out of their slots or missing, which affects the value of a 'complete' set.
Value Estimate
$75 - $150 USD depending on completeness. Value is largely determined by the current spot price of silver plus a small premium for the display and historical theme.
Care & Maintenance
Keep the glass closed to prevent atmospheric oxidation (tarnish). Do not clean with abrasive polishes; use a silver polishing cloth only if necessary. Avoid touching the coins with bare hands as skin oils cause spotting; use cotton gloves.
Similar Pieces
Franklin Mint 'Kings and Queens of England' full-size medal sets; Birmingham Mint British Monarch sets. Key difference is the 'Mini' scale and lower total silver weight compared to full 38mm crowns.
Interesting Facts
The Danbury Mint often marketed these collections through subscription services where collectors would receive one or two coins a month until the set was complete.