British 20 Pence Coin, Elizabeth II Fifth Portrait, 2016
Coin/Currency · The Royal Mint (United Kingdom). The Royal Mint is the government-owned mint that produces coins for the United Kingdom, founded over 1,100 years ago.
Pattern: Standard Circulation Coinage; Obverse: Jody Clark Portrait; Reverse: Segment of the Royal Shield
Type
Coin/Currency
Maker
The Royal Mint (United Kingdom). The Royal Mint is the government-owned mint that produces coins for the United Kingdom, founded over 1,100 years ago.
Material
Cupro-nickel (84% Copper, 16% Nickel). This item contains no actual silver despite its silvery appearance.
Dimensions
Diameter: 21.4mm; Weight: 5.0 grams; Thickness: 1.7mm. It is a small, seven-sided (equilateral curve heptagon) coin.
Description
A standard British 20 pence circulation coin. This piece features the regal mature portrait of Queen Elizabeth II. Often mistaken for silver due to its metallic luster, it is actually a base-metal alloy used for durability in high-volume trade. The distinctive seven-sided shape is a hallmark of British decimal currency introduced to differentiate denominations by touch.
Key Features
Seven-sided heptagonal shape, '2016' date, Jody Clark portrait design, cupro-nickel silvery-grey color.
Material & Composition
Cupro-nickel (84% Copper, 16% Nickel). This item contains no actual silver despite its silvery appearance.
Finish & Decoration
Business strike finish. Features the fifth definitive coinage portrait of Queen Elizabeth II, wearing the George IV State Diadem. Circumscription in Latin: ELIZABETH II DEI GRA REG FID DEF (Elizabeth II by the Grace of God, Queen, Defender of the Faith).
Hallmarks & Stamps
No silver hallmarks. Features the year '2016' and the denomination '20' on the reverse (not visible in image). Stylistic 'J.C' initials for designer Jody Clark are present under the bust.
Construction Details
Machine-struck/Die-struck at high pressure from cupro-nickel planchets at The Royal Mint in Llantrisant, Wales.
Functional Features
Equilateral curve heptagon shape allowing 'constant breadth' for use in vending machines and sorting equipment.
Handle & Grip Details
None; features a plain, non-milled edge characteristic of the British 20p denomination.
Craftsmanship Details
Industrial machine striking. High-quality die-engraving based on Clark's original clay model, featuring precision relief and uniform thickness.
Authentication Indicators
Correct heptagonal geometry, crispness of the 'Dei Gra' lettering, specific 'J.C' designer mark placement, and typical wear patterns for 21st-century cupro-nickel coinage.
Origin & Manufacturing
Llantrisant, Wales, United Kingdom. Manufactured by The Royal Mint using automated industrial minting processes.
Era & Period
Contemporary/Modern British (Elizabeth II era). Historical context: The fifth portrait representing the final decades of the Queen’s reign.
Age Estimate
Dated 2016. The specific portrait was introduced in 2015 and used until 2022.
Cultural Significance
A staple of daily British life and commerce; represents the transition of royal iconography over the longest reign in British history.
Condition Notes
Circulated condition. Shows light surface scratches, nicks (bag marks), and typical oxidation/toning for a coin that has been in public use. Overall: Very Good (numismatic grade).
Value Estimate
Face value: 20 British Pence ($0.25 USD). In circulated condition, it has no significant premium over face value.
Care & Maintenance
No cleaning recommended for numismatic value. If hygiene is a concern, mild soap and water may be used, but avoid silver polish as it will strip the coin's natural luster and reduce collector value.
Similar Pieces
British 50 pence coin (larger heptagon), British 5 pence coin (round, smaller), silver proof versions of this coin (contained in specialized mint sets).
Interesting Facts
The 20p was the first seven-sided coin introduced in the UK (in 1982) along with the 50p. In 2008, a batch of 20p coins was minted without a date (the 'mule' 20p), which remains a highly sought-after rarity.