The Kings and Queens of England Silver Mini-Coin Collection by Danbury Mint
Coin/Bullion (Commemorative Mini-Medal Set) · The Danbury Mint, a division of MBI Inc. founded in 1969. Known for high-volume commemorative collectibles, jewelry, and minted medals marketed through direct mail.
Pattern: Kings and Queens of England historical portrait series, introduced circa 1970s. This is a finite commemorative set and is no longer in production.
Type
Coin/Bullion (Commemorative Mini-Medal Set)
Maker
The Danbury Mint, a division of MBI Inc. founded in 1969. Known for high-volume commemorative collectibles, jewelry, and minted medals marketed through direct mail.
Material
Sterling Silver (.925 purity). These are solid silver mini-medals, often weighing approximately 1 to 2 grams each. The base of the display is velvet-clad wood or plastic.
Dimensions
Individual coins: approx. 10mm to 13mm in diameter. Case: approx. 12 x 8 inches. Total silver weight for a full set of 40-50 coins is typically around 2-3 troy ounces.
Description
An educational and numismatic display featuring a comprehensive chronology of English monarchs. Each miniature sterling silver medal captures a specific ruler\'s profile with impressive detail for the scale. Housed in a handsome wooden collector\'s chest with vibrant red velvet lining, this set serves as both a historical reference and a precious metal investment.
Key Features
Miniature scale of portraits, complete chronological sequence, original display chest with brass identifier, and the inclusion of a specialized magnifier.
Material & Composition
Sterling Silver (.925 purity). These are solid silver mini-medals, often weighing approximately 1 to 2 grams each. The base of the display is velvet-clad wood or plastic.
Finish & Decoration
Proof-like or brilliant uncirculated finish. Features struck relief portraits of English monarchs (e.g., Henry VIII, Victoria, George V) with frosted details and mirrored fields. Decoration includes the monarch's name and reign dates.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Each mini-coin typically bears a small 'STERLING' or '.925' stamp on the reverse or rim. No official British assay hallmarks are usually present as these were produced by a private American-based mint.
Construction Details
Machine-struck using high-pressure dies to achieve fine detail on a miniature scale. The display case features a mitered wooden frame with a glass top and a custom-fitted velvet insert.
Functional Features
Individual recessed slots for organized display, a magnifying glass for viewing miniature details, and an identifying brass-tone plaque. The glass lid protects against environmental tarnish.
Handle & Grip Details
The set includes a small handheld magnifying glass with a black resin handle and gold-tone metal bezel for ergonomic inspection of the coins.
Craftsmanship Details
Industrial high-quality striking. Unlike hand-wrought silver, these are perfectly symmetrical machine products. The 'mini' scale demonstrates the precision of modern die-cutting technology.
Authentication Indicators
Uniformity of the 'Sterling' stamps, consistent die-work across the series, and the presence of the original branded plaque. Silver can be verified by a simple magnet test (non-magnetic) or acid test.
Origin & Manufacturing
United States (Danbury, Connecticut). Produced in a private commercial mint facility using automated industrial striking processes.
Era & Period
Modern Commemorative era (Late 20th Century). Stylistically reflects the 1970s-80s trend for 'subscription' silver collectibles.
Age Estimate
Circa 1970-1980. Dated by the popularity of the Danbury Mint's historical silver series during the silver boom of the late 70s.
Cultural Significance
Represents the 20th-century 'collectomania' movement and the marketing of royalty-related artifacts to American and British audiences.
Condition Notes
Very Good. Coins show light natural tarnish (patina). The case shows minor wear; several coins have come loose from their designated slots. Plaque and glass appear intact.
Value Estimate
$150 - $300 USD. Primary value is tied to the current spot price of silver plus a small premium for the completed collection and original display case.
Care & Maintenance
Keep glass closed to prevent sulfide tarnish. Do not use chemical dips; if cleaning is necessary, use a soft cotton cloth. Store in a low-humidity environment to preserve the wooden case.
Similar Pieces
Franklin Mint 'Kings and Queens' larger medal sets, or the '100 Greatest Masterpieces' mini-coin series. The key difference is the diameter and the specific portrait style.
Interesting Facts
The Danbury Mint was one of the first companies to successfully market 'micro-mintages,' making silver ownership accessible to the general public during periods of high inflation.