The 1993 £5 coronation Anniversary coin: A Tltribute to 40 years of Majesty...
The 1993 £5 silver proof coin is a magnificent tribute to Queen Elizabeth II’s 40th coronation anniversary, celebrating a reign that defined modern Britain. Issued by The Royal Mint, this sterling silver commemorative crown encapsulates the grandeur of the Queen’s coronation and the rich traditions of the monarchy.
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Designed by Robert Elderton, the obverse and reverse of the coin are a masterclass in symbolic artistry.
Obverse: The coin features the original 1953 effigy of Queen Elizabeth II by Mary Gillick, a youthful portrait that adorned UK coinage until 1970. Encircling the Queen are eight mounted trumpeters from the Household Cavalry, separated by swords and sceptres—symbols of the monarchy’s authority. This majestic fanfare mirrors the processional grandeur of the Queen’s journey to Westminster Abbey on 2 June 1953.
Reverse: The Crown of St Edward, used during the actual crowning of the Queen, takes center stage, radiating 40 ceremonial trumpets in honor of the 40-year milestone. Above the crown is the inscription: FAITH AND TRUTH I WILL BEAR UNTO YOU
These words, taken directly from the Coronation Oath, reaffirm the Queen’s lifelong commitment to her people. At the bottom, the dates 1953 - 1993 mark the historic anniversary.
The choice of St Edward’s Crown as the focal point of the coin is deeply significant. Made for Charles II in 1661, this solid gold crown, adorned with rubies, sapphires, and pearls, is the heaviest in the Royal Regalia, weighing nearly 2.3 kilograms. Though worn for only a few moments during the coronation, it remains the definitive symbol of British monarchy.
On coronation day, the Queen actually wore three different crowns:
The George IV State Diadem – Worn during the grand procession to Westminster Abbey.
St Edward’s Crown – Used for the moment of crowning.
The Imperial State Crown – Worn for the recessional and state occasions thereafter.
By featuring St Edward’s Crown, the 1993 £5 coin captures the most significant moment of the Queen’s ascension to the throne.
Struck in .925 sterling silver, this proof coin is a true collector’s piece, boasting fine craftsmanship and historical significance.
- Metal: .925 sterling silver
- Weight: 28.28 grams
- Diameter: 38.61 mm
- Face Value: £5
- Mintage: 58,877 in this presentation
As with all proof coins, it was struck using specially prepared dies and highly polished blanks, ensuring a crisp, mirror-like finish that enhances the intricate details of the design.
While the 1993 £5 coronation anniversary coin is no longer available from The Royal Mint, it remains a highly sought-after numismatic treasure. Whether you’re a royal enthusiast, a precious metals collector, or a history buff, this coin offers a tangible connection to one of the most defining moments of the 20th century British monarchy.
Queen Elizabeth II’s 40-year reign at the time of this coin’s release was already remarkable—few could have predicted she would go on to become Britain’s longest-reigning monarch, surpassing even Queen Victoria. This coin, therefore, holds a special place in British numismatic history, marking a pivotal moment in a reign that would ultimately span 70 years. A crown fit for a Queen, the 1993 £5 silver proof remains a stunning tribute to a reign that shaped Britain and the Commonwealth.
