In 2005 the Royal Mint released a very Limited Issue Britannia £10 Ten Pound Gold Proof Coin struck in solid 22 Carat Gold weighing one tenth of an ounce of pure Gold.
Britannia first appeared as a provincial figure on a Roman Imperial Coin of Emperor Hadrian (117-138AD). She did not feature on English Coins until the issue of copper halfpennies and farthings by Charles II in 1672 but, since that time, has graced the coinage of every British Monarch. Created by award winning sculptor Philip Nathan, the design shows Britannia in a traditional pose.
Seated atop a craggy rock, looking out to sea, with her robes blowing in the wind, in her right hand Britannia holds a shield emphasising her Protection of the British Isles. The laurel bush in front of her symbolises her love of peace, but her helmet and the trident clasped in her left hand, emphasise that she is not defenceless. Complementing Philip Nathan's design, the obverse features Ian Rank Broadley's portrait of Her Majesty, Queen Elizabeth II. These legal tender coins have been struck to proof quality using specially prepared dies and highly polished blanks.
Limited Mintage of 1,225 Worldwide
Mark a milestone or great British moment with this year-dated Britannia coin
Finished to Royal Mint's Proof standard
Struck in 22 Carat Gold weighing one tenth of an ounce of pure Gold
Features Britannia Seated by acclaimed artist Philip Nathan
