The 1990 £5 coin: A tribute to the Queen Mother’s 90th birthday...
In 1990, The Royal Mint issued a commemorative £5 coin to celebrate the 90th birthday of Queen Elizabeth, The Queen Mother. This release was historically significant—not only because it honoured one of the most beloved members of the British Royal Family but also because it marked the first modern £5 crown after the denomination was re-tariffed from its previous 25 pence value. The coin was struck in multiple materials, including cupro-nickel, sterling silver, and gold, making it a highly sought-after piece for collectors.
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The reverse of the coin, designed by Leslie Durbin, features an elegant and symbolic composition. At its centre is a double "E" cypher, representing both the Queen Mother (Elizabeth Bowes-Lyon) and Queen Elizabeth II. Flanking this are two national floral emblems—the English rose and the Scottish thistle, reflecting the Queen Mother’s Scottish heritage. Above the cypher, her name and title are inscribed, while the dates "1900 – 1990" appear at the bottom, marking the span of her remarkable life.
On the obverse, the third official portrait of Queen Elizabeth II, designed by Raphael Maklouf, is displayed. This effigy, used on British coinage between 1985 and 1997, captures the Queen wearing the George IV State Diadem, a crown she traditionally wore for the State Opening of Parliament.
Born in 1900, Elizabeth Bowes-Lyon married Prince Albert, Duke of York in 1923. When Albert unexpectedly became King George VI in 1936 following the abdication of Edward VIII, she became Queen Consort. During World War II, her strength and devotion to the British people made her a beloved figure. After King George VI’s passing in 1952, she became known as The Queen Mother, offering support and guidance to her daughter, Queen Elizabeth II. She remained a cherished and active member of the Royal Family until her passing in 2002, at the incredible age of 101.
- Material: Struck in .925 sterling silver (proof version)
- Weight: 28.28 grams
- Diameter: 38.61 millimetres
- Designer (Obverse): Raphael Maklouf
- Designer (Reverse): Leslie Durbin
- Mintage (Silver Proof Version): 56,102
The 1990 Queen Mother £5 coin holds a special place in numismatic history. As the first £5 crown of the modern era, it set a precedent for future commemorative issues. Its intricate design, historical significance, and connection to two monarchs make it a prized addition for collectors of royal and commemorative coinage. Whether as a tribute to the Queen Mother’s legacy or as a piece of numismatic history, this coin remains a standout in any collection.
