2003 Silver Proof PIEDFORT £1

The one pound coin for 2003 displays the Royal Arms, Britain's noblest heraldic emblem.

In their Present form the Royal Arms remain essentially those of Queen Victoria and today represent the Queen's sovereignty over the whole of the United Kingdom.  Created for the original one pound coin in 1983, the finely detailed depiction of the Royal Arms is by Eric Sewell, formally Chief Engraver of the Royal Mint.  The obverse carries the portrait of Her Majesty the Queen, the fourth to feature in circulating coinage since Her Majesty's accession in 1952.

Piedforts are coins which have been struck on thicker than normal blanks.  As their name suggests they have close associations with France, where from the twelfth century they were apparently issued by the King as presentation pieces.

Specifications

This one pound coin weighs 19.00 grammes, measure 22.50 millimetres in diameter and is struck to the highest Proof quality in sterling (.925) silver.   Only 10,000 silver Proof Piedfort one pound coins have been authorised for worldwide distribution.

The 2003 silver proof Piedfort one pound coin is encapsulated and housed in the original Royal Mint box, complete with certificate of authenticity.

An essential addition for the Silver collectors amongst you.