The Kings and Queens of England Sterling Silver Mini-Coin Collection by The Franklin Mint
Coin/Bullion (Numismatic Medallic Art) · The Franklin Mint, founded by Joseph Segel in 1964. During the 1970s, it was the world’s largest private mint, known for its marketing of limited-edition collectibles, especially in precious metals.
Pattern: Kings and Queens of England Silver Mini-Coin Collection, issued in 1977. This was a commemorative set released for the Silver Jubilee of Queen Elizabeth II.
Type
Coin/Bullion (Numismatic Medallic Art)
Maker
The Franklin Mint, founded by Joseph Segel in 1964. During the 1970s, it was the world’s largest private mint, known for its marketing of limited-edition collectibles, especially in precious metals.
Material
Sterling Silver (.925 purity). Each individual coin is solid sterling silver. The total set typically contains 44 mini-coins, though weight per coin is very small (often approx. 1-2 grams each).
Dimensions
Mini-coins are approximately 10-13mm in diameter. The presentation case is roughly 10 x 12 inches. Total silver weight for the full set of 44 coins is approximately 1.5 to 2.5 troy ounces.
Description
A comprehensive numismatic tribute to the British monarchy, this set features detailed portraits of various kings and queens. The 'mini-coin' format was a signature Franklin Mint product line designed to offer a complete historical series at a more accessible silver weight than full-sized medals.
Key Features
Portraiture of all monarchs from Edward the Confessor to Elizabeth II; official Silver Jubilee commemorative status; complete original documentation including the red reference book and COA.
Material & Composition
Sterling Silver (.925 purity). Each individual coin is solid sterling silver. The total set typically contains 44 mini-coins, though weight per coin is very small (often approx. 1-2 grams each).
Finish & Decoration
Proof-like finish with frosted relief imagery and mirror backgrounds. Each coin features a portrait of a British monarch from Edward the Confessor to Elizabeth II, using a neoclassical portrait style.
Hallmarks & Stamps
The coins typically bear the Franklin Mint hallmark (an 'f' and 'm' monogram) along with a 'STERLING' or '.925' fineness stamp. The accompanying Certificate of Authenticity (COA) provides the formal validation.
Construction Details
Precision die-struck using industrial coin presses. Unlike hand-forged silver, these are mass-produced with high-quality machining to ensure uniform detail across the entire limited edition run.
Functional Features
Housed in a custom wooden display frame with a velour-lined insert and protective clear cover. Includes a biographical book and a signed Certificate of Authenticity.
Handle & Grip Details
N/A - This is a display set; however, the presentation case features a wooden frame for wall mounting or tabletop display.
Craftsmanship Details
Machine-struck with high-quality die preparation. The level of detail on icons so small (mini-format) demonstrates the precision of the Franklin Mint's engravers during their peak production years.
Authentication Indicators
The presence of the original watermarked Certificate of Authenticity, the Franklin Mint logo on the documentation, and the consistent striking of the mini-coins verify its origin.
Origin & Manufacturing
Made in the United States or Canada (Franklin Mint had facilities in Pennsylvania and Ontario). This specific auction listing indicates a Canadian branch origin (Wellesley, ON).
Era & Period
Modern Era (late 20th Century). Issued in 1977 to coincide with the Silver Jubilee, reflecting a period of high demand for 'instant collectibles' and sovereign-themed memorabilia.
Age Estimate
Dated 1977. The date is explicitly provided on the Certificate of Authenticity and aligns with the 25th anniversary of Queen Elizabeth II's reign.
Cultural Significance
Represents the 1970s obsession with royal memorabilia and the growth of the private silver minting industry during an era of significant inflation and silver price volatility.
Condition Notes
Very Good to Excellent. The image shows the documentation is intact. One must check for toning/tarnish on the small coins (sulfide deposits) and ensures the wooden frame's finish hasn't faded or scratched. Grade: Excellent.
Value Estimate
$75 - $150 USD. The value is largely determined by the current scrap price of sterling silver plus a small premium for the thematic completeness and the condition of the display case/book.
Care & Maintenance
Do not remove coins from the display to avoid fingerprints and skin oils. Store in a climate-controlled environment to prevent 'fogging' of the silver. Use anti-tarnish strips inside the case if possible.
Similar Pieces
Franklin Mint 'Greatest Masterpieces' sets; Royal Mint Sovereign sets (which are legal tender, unlike these medals); Danbury Mint monarch collections (often gold-plated silver).
Interesting Facts
The Franklin Mint's business model in the 1970s revolutionized the direct-to-consumer silver market, often advertising in Sunday newspapers and magazines to target 'non-traditional' collectors.