Elizabeth II Gilt Sterling Silver Coin-Mount Pendant with Sunburst Engine-Turned Bezel
Jewelry - Coin Pendant · Unknown Manufacturing Jeweler; typically British or Commonwealth origin. In the mid-20th century, many small workshops in Birmingham and London specialized in coin-mounting (bezel setting) for souvenirs.
Pattern: Non-specific pattern; features a sunburst or 'engine-turned' radiating starburst bezel design commonly used for sovereign or commemorative coin mounts.
Type
Jewelry - Coin Pendant
Maker
Unknown Manufacturing Jeweler; typically British or Commonwealth origin. In the mid-20th century, many small workshops in Birmingham and London specialized in coin-mounting (bezel setting) for souvenirs.
Material
Gilt Sterling Silver (Vermeil). The outer mount is likely sterling silver with gold plating. The central coin is a commemorative or currency token, often struck in bronze or cupro-nickel if decorative, though the mount is designed for 22k gold sovereigns or silver florins. Based on the yellow tone and wear, this is silver-gilt.
Dimensions
Diameter approx 25-30mm (similar to a British Florin or Shilling size). Estimated weight: 6-10 grams including the coin and mounting.
Description
This charming gilt-silver pendant features a central coin or medal bearing the laureate head of Queen Elizabeth II, as designed by Mary Gillick. The portrait is framed by an elegant, radiating sunburst-patterned bezel that catches the light through precise metalwork. The piece is finished in 'vermeil' (gold over silver), giving it the prestige of gold jewelry with the durability and hallmark standards of sterling silver. It serves as both a piece of numismatic history and a classic mid-century fashion accessory.
Key Features
Laureate head portrait of Elizabeth II; four-claw coin mounting; radiating engine-turned bezel; scroll-top suspension bale; gilt-silver composition.
Material & Composition
Gilt Sterling Silver (Vermeil). The outer mount is likely sterling silver with gold plating. The central coin is a commemorative or currency token, often struck in bronze or cupro-nickel if decorative, though the mount is designed for 22k gold sovereigns or silver florins. Based on the yellow tone and wear, this is silver-gilt.
Finish & Decoration
Engine-turned radial engraving on the bezel forming a sunburst pattern. Scalloped or 'rope' style highlights. The reverse probably features a brushed or polished finish. Features a scroll-top bale attachment.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Usually found on the back of the bezel or on the bale/jump ring. Expected marks: '925', a lion passant (if British), and a maker's mark (e.g., 'W&G'). The coin itself holds the inscription 'ELIZABETH II DEI GRATIA REGINA'.
Construction Details
Machine-struck mount with hand-soldered jump rings. The coin is held in place by four small peripheral tabs or a pressure-fit tension bezel. The bale is a simple wire loop attached to a decorative scroll-top finding.
Functional Features
Mechanical coin retention via four fold-over claws (visible at 7, 5, and 12 o'clock positions). Suspended by a rotating bale to allow for movement on a neck chain.
Handle & Grip Details
Suspension bale: Solid gilt-silver wire loop, attached to a decorative filigree/scroll mounting. Condition appears sturdy with minimal thinning at the contact point.
Craftsmanship Details
Mass-produced but high-quality machine finishing. The engine-turning is crisp and symmetrical. The solder work on the bale is tidy, indicating professional workshop standards.
Authentication Indicators
The portrait style (Gillick head) is chronologically consistent with the font and mount style. Hallmarks (though not visible in the photo) are usually located on the flat reverse side of the bezel's rim.
Origin & Manufacturing
Likely United Kingdom (Birmingham) or Australia. These were extremely popular as 'sweetheart' jewelry or Coronation souvenirs in the UK and Commonwealth countries during the 1950s and 60s.
Era & Period
Modern Era (post-1952). The 'Mary Gillick' first portrait of Elizabeth II (laureate head) identifies this as the 1953-1967 design period.
Age Estimate
Circa 1953-1970. The use of the Gillick portrait and the style of the engine-turned bezel strongly suggest a mid-century production date.
Cultural Significance
Represents the post-WWII 'New Elizabethan Age' and the widespread public affection for the young Queen. Such items were often gifted for graduations, birthdays, or as travel souvenirs.
Condition Notes
Good antique/vintage condition. Some visible 'brassing' or wear to the gold gilding on the high points of the sunburst and the coin's rim, revealing the silver beneath. The bale is slightly misshapen but functional. Light surface tarnish (patina) in recessed areas.
Value Estimate
$40 - $85 USD. Factors include the silver weight, the state of the gilding, and the specific denomination/nature of the coin inside.
Care & Maintenance
Gently wipe with a soft microfiber cloth. Avoid silver dips or abrasive polishes, as these will strip the gold gilding off the sterling base metal. Store in a dry, airtight bag to prevent the silver base from tarnishing through the gold layer.
Similar Pieces
9ct Gold Sovereign Pendants (significantly more valuable, same design); Silver Sixpence Pendants (smaller size); Modern reproduction coin-edge bezels (lacking the engine-turned detail).
Interesting Facts
The portrait used on the coin was the first of the Queen's reign, used from 1953 until decimalization in the UK. Coin jewelry saw a massive resurgence in the 1960s as 'sovereign cases' and 'coin bezels' became affordable luxury items for the middle class.