The Kings and Queens of England Sterling Silver Mini-Coin Collection by The Franklin Mint
Coin/Bullion (Numismatic Medallic Art Set) · The Franklin Mint, established in 1964 by Joseph Segel in Pennsylvania, USA. They were the world's largest private mint, known for high-quality marketing of collectibles and sterling silver commemorative sets during the 1970s.
Pattern: The Kings and Queens of England Silver Mini-Coin Collection, introduced circa 1970-1972. It is a discontinued limited edition set.
Type
Coin/Bullion (Numismatic Medallic Art Set)
Maker
The Franklin Mint, established in 1964 by Joseph Segel in Pennsylvania, USA. They were the world's largest private mint, known for high-quality marketing of collectibles and sterling silver commemorative sets during the 1970s.
Material
Sterling Silver (.925 purity). Each mini-coin is solid sterling silver. The set usually includes a wooden display case with velvet lining and a gold-tone brass identification plaque.
Dimensions
Mini-coins typically measure approximately 10mm to 13mm in diameter. Each coin weighs roughly 1 to 2 grams. The full set contains dozens of coins, often totaling several troy ounces of sterling silver.
Description
An elegant and educational numismatic set featuring miniature sterling silver medals depicting the monarchs of England from Egbert to Elizabeth II. This set was marketed to history buffs and silver investors, combining artistic engraving with the intrinsic value of precious metal. The collection is housed in a handsome mahogany-finished chest with a velvet interior, providing a museum-style presentation for the home library.
Key Features
Miniature scale die-striking, complete chronological lineage of English royalty, sterling silver purity guarantee, and 'Tiffany-style' presentation case with magnifying lens.
Material & Composition
Sterling Silver (.925 purity). Each mini-coin is solid sterling silver. The set usually includes a wooden display case with velvet lining and a gold-tone brass identification plaque.
Finish & Decoration
Proof-like or frosted matte finish on the relief with mirrored fields. Each medal features a portrait of a British monarch on the obverse. The decoration is struck in high relief for its scale (miniature coin format).
Hallmarks & Stamps
Usually marked on the rim or the reverse with the Franklin Mint 'F' mintmark and a 'STERLING' or '.925' stamp. The accompanying Certificate of Authenticity (COA) provides the legal guarantee of fineness.
Construction Details
Machine die-struck using high-pressure minting presses to achieve fine detail on a miniature scale. The pieces are produced to numismatic 'Proof' standards.
Functional Features
Housed in a custom wooden presentation display chest with a viewing glass lid and felt-lined slots. Includes a magnifying glass for viewing fine details and a biographical reference book.
Handle & Grip Details
Not applicable; however, the display case features a metal latch and the magnifying glass has a small handle for ergonomic use when examining the small coins.
Craftsmanship Details
Precision die-striking. While machine-made, the detail density relative to the tiny size of the coins indicates high-quality tooling and master engraving. The display case demonstrates standard commercial cabinetry of the period.
Authentication Indicators
Original Franklin Mint 'F' mintmark on the coins, presence of the original Certificate of Authenticity, specific Franklin Mint letterhead on correspondence, and high-quality strike detail consistent with 1970s machinery.
Origin & Manufacturing
United States; manufactured at the Franklin Mint's facility in Wawa, Pennsylvania, following American private minting traditions.
Era & Period
Modern / Mid-Century Numismatic Boom (c. 1970s). This reflects the era's fascination with silver as both an investment and a collectible historical tribute.
Age Estimate
Circa 1970-1975. This was the peak period for the Franklin Mint's series of historical miniature silver sets.
Cultural Significance
Represents the 20th-century trend of 'collectible silver' and the democratization of numismatics. It reflects an American fascination with British royal history during the early 1970s silver boom.
Condition Notes
Excellent to Mint condition. Coins are protected within the case, though some natural toning (tarnish) may occur over decades. The wooden case and paper COA are susceptible to light wear and foxing. Overall Grade: Excellent.
Value Estimate
$150 - $350 USD depending on the total silver weight and market demand. Value is largely driven by the 'melt value' of the sterling silver content plus a modest premium for the complete set and box.
Care & Maintenance
Keep coins in the display case to minimize air exposure. Do not clean with abrasive polishes; if necessary, use a silver dip followed by a distilled water rinse and air dry. Avoid touching coins with bare fingers as skin oils cause spotting.
Similar Pieces
The '100 Greatest Masterpieces' silver set or 'The Signers of the Declaration of Independence' sets. Alternatives include larger 'Medallic Art Co' sets which often lack the 'mini' aesthetic.
Interesting Facts
The Franklin Mint became a cultural phenomenon in the 70s, at one point employing renowned engravers like Gilroy Roberts, who designed the Kennedy Half Dollar. These 'mini-coin' sets were designed to make silver collecting affordable for the middle class.