The 2002 £5 golden jubilee coin: A tribute to fifty years of majesty...
In 2002, the world came together to celebrate a remarkable milestone—the Golden Jubilee of Queen Elizabeth II, marking fifty years since her accession to the throne. As part of these grand celebrations, The Royal Mint released a special series of commemorative coins, including the 2002 £5 crown. This coin stood out not only for its elegant design but also for its historical significance, capturing the essence of a reign that would later become the longest in British history.
SOURCE
Unlike standard UK coinage, the 2002 £5 coin features a one-off obverse and reverse, both designed by the renowned artist Ian Rank-Broadley FRBS.
Obverse: The Equestrian Queen
On the obverse, we see a youthful equestrian portrait of Queen Elizabeth II—a design reminiscent of the 1977 Silver Jubilee crown. This imagery highlights the Queen’s lifelong connection with horses and symbolizes her strength and stability as a ruler. The Queen is depicted riding on horseback, a powerful representation of her role as a monarch who has led her nation through decades of change.
Reverse: A Reflective Portrait
The reverse is equally striking, featuring a portrait of Her Majesty in regal robes and a diadem, but with a unique twist—she looks over her right shoulder. This unusual positioning gives the coin an air of introspection, as if the Queen is reflecting on the past fifty years of her reign while also looking forward to the future. Surrounding the portrait is the Latin inscription "AMOR POPULI PRAESIDIUM REG(inae)", meaning "The love of the people is the Queen’s protection." This motto, historically used on the coinage of King Charles I, reinforces the bond between the Queen and her subjects.
The 2002 £5 Golden Jubilee coin was minted in a variety of finishes, catering to both everyday collectors and serious numismatists:
- Cupro-nickel (Brilliant Uncirculated)
- Sterling Silver Proof (.925 silver, weighing 28.28g)
- Gold Proof (struck in 22-carat gold for the most prestigious collectors)
The coin measures 38.61mm in diameter and, in its silver proof version, contains 0.841 troy ounces of fine silver.
At the time of its release, the Golden Jubilee £5 coin was a fitting tribute to a Queen who had already guided the nation for half a century. Little did anyone know that Queen Elizabeth II would go on to celebrate another 20 years on the throne, eventually marking her Platinum Jubilee in 2022.
For collectors today, this coin is more than just a commemorative issue—it is a snapshot of history, a tribute to a monarch who dedicated her life to service. Whether as part of a British crown collection, a historical set of Jubilee coins, or simply as a piece of precious metal investment, the 2002 £5 coin remains a treasured keepsake from a truly golden era.
