1977 Queen Elizabeth II Silver Jubilee Crown
Coin/Bullion · The Royal Mint (United Kingdom). Established over 1,100 years ago, it is the primary mint for British coinage with a global reputation for high-quality commemorative issues.
Pattern: 1977 Silver Jubilee Commemorative Issue (25 Pence Denomination)
Type
Coin/Bullion
Maker
The Royal Mint (United Kingdom). Established over 1,100 years ago, it is the primary mint for British coinage with a global reputation for high-quality commemorative issues.
Material
Cupro-nickel for the standard circulation/collector version (75% copper, 25% nickel). A limited Sterling Silver (.925) version was also produced for proof sets.
Dimensions
Diameter: 38.61mm (1.52 inches). Weight: 28.28 grams. Thickness: approximately 2.89mm.
Description
A classic British commemorative crown featuring a rare equestrian portrait of Queen Elizabeth II. The design harkens back to the 1953 Coronation crown, showing the monarch on horseback. The latin legend 'ELIZABETH II DG. REG FD' translates to 'Elizabeth II by the Grace of God, Queen, Defender of the Faith'.
Key Features
The equestrian portrait is the most significant feature, designed by Arnold Machin. It is one of the most recognizable commemorative coins in British history due to its high mintage and distribution during the 1977 street parties.
Material & Composition
Cupro-nickel for the standard circulation/collector version (75% copper, 25% nickel). A limited Sterling Silver (.925) version was also produced for proof sets.
Finish & Decoration
Matte to semi-mirrored finish. The obverse features an equestrian portrait of Queen Elizabeth II in her Colonel-in-Chief uniform of the Grenadier Guards. The reverse (not shown) depicts the coronation ampulla and an oak leaf slip.
Hallmarks & Stamps
No hallmarks are present on the cupro-nickel version. Sterling silver proof versions would be found in specific packaging; however, British coinage generally lacks hallmarks as the legend and date serve as legal tender guarantees.
Construction Details
Milled/Die-struck. Mass-produced using heavy coinage presses with hardened steel dies. The edge is milled (reeded).
Functional Features
Legal tender in the UK with a face value of 25 pence, though rarely used in commerce. Designed as a commemorative collectible.
Handle & Grip Details
Not applicable (coin form).
Craftsmanship Details
High-quality industrial die-striking. Despite being a mass-produced item, the relief of the horse and rider shows exceptional detail in the harness and the Queen's uniform.
Authentication Indicators
Correct font styles, die-depth, and standard portrait characteristics for the 1977 issue. No signs of casting (pitting or soft edges) suggest a genuine Royal Mint strike.
Origin & Manufacturing
Llantrisant, Wales, United Kingdom. Manufactured by the Royal Mint following traditional numismatic techniques updated for modern scale.
Era & Period
Modern / Late 20th Century. Specifically the Silver Jubilee year of 1977, celebrating the 25th anniversary of the Queen's accession.
Age Estimate
Dated 1977. Produced between late 1976 and 1977.
Cultural Significance
Represents the height of 1970s British royalism and the tradition of 'street parties.' It was widely given to schoolchildren as commemorative gifts across the UK and Commonwealth.
Condition Notes
Very Good to Fine. Shows consistent surface wear, light scratches (bag marks), and moderate oxidation/tarnishing typical of cupro-nickel that has been handled or stored outside of a capsule.
Value Estimate
$1.00 - $5.00 USD for standard cupro-nickel (common). Up to $40-$60 USD for the Sterling Silver Proof version in original presentation box.
Care & Maintenance
Do not clean with abrasives or silver dips, as this removes the numismatic 'luster' and lowers value. Store in a PVC-free coin flip or capsule to prevent further oxidation.
Similar Pieces
1953 Coronation Crown (92.5% silver or cupro-nickel), 1981 Royal Wedding Crown, 1972 Silver Wedding Crown. The 1977 version is unique for its large date at the bottom obverse.
Interesting Facts
The 1977 Crown was the first time since 1953 that an equestrian portrait was used. Over 37 million cupro-nickel versions were minted, making it one of the most common 'silver-colored' items found in British households.