2002 Three Lions Of England One Pound Silver Proof Coin

2002 Three Lions Of England One Pound Silver Proof Coin

May show signs of toning

From 1994 to 1997, The Royal Mint released a series of design for the One Pound coin, each featuring a design inspired by heraldry to represent the four Home Nations. From the Celtic Cross of Northern Ireland to the lion rampant of Scotland, these four designs were joined, on the obverse, by Raphael Maklouf’s elegant portrait of Her Majesty the Queen. From 1998, a new effigy of the Queen was introduced on circulating coinage. This popular design was by Ian Rank-Broadley and would be used until 2015. From 1999, the series of heraldic designs was relaunched with the new portrait, including this 2002 silver proof coin featuring the three lions of England. Richard III, or Richard the Lionheart was the first to adopt the three lions to represent England in the twelfth century. In 1340, Edward III continued to use the emblem when he quartered the Royal Arms to include the national emblem of France alongside the lions of England. They have taken on a modern importance in football and cricket, coming to represent the English teams and inspire songs and chants. This £1 design features the famous three lions with the denomination ‘ONE POUND’ inscribed below. The edge inscription reads ‘DECUS ET TUTAMEN’ or ‘an ornament and a safeguard.’ Struck in .925 sterling silver, this coin has a proof finish meaning it is of higher quality and with greater design definition than circulating coinage. It comes in its original packaging from The Royal Mint and is one of 17,693 in this presentation. With a weight of 9.50 grams and a diameter of 22.50 milimetres, this coin makes a fantastic gift or souvenir.