2008 Silver Proof £1 Coin

The modern £1 coin entered circulation in 1983, replacing the notes that had circulated since the First World War.  It was then the premier circulating coin of the United Kingdom and, appropriately enough, bore on its reverse a depiction of the Royal Arms, Britain's noblest heraldic device.  The design has since featured on the £1 coin in the years 1993, 1998 and 2003 and features again on the coin of 2008.  Intricate and complex, it was created by Eric Sewell, a former Chief Engraver of the Royal Mint.

His traditional design depicts the Royal Arms complete with lion and unicorn supporters along with the famous motto of the Order of the Garter HONI SOIT QUI MALY PENSE (evil to him who evil thinks) and, in a decorative banner, the words DIEU ET MON DROIT (God and my right), the motto of English monarchs since Henry V.  On the edge of the coin the Latin words DECUS ET TUTAMEN feature as an incuse inscription.  

Coin Specifications

Denomination - £1

Alloy - 0.925 sterling silver

Weight - 9.50g

Diameter - 22.50mm

Edge Inscription - DECUS ET TUTAMEN (An ornament and a safeguard)

Quality - Proof

Maximum Coin Mintage - 30,000

The 2008 silver proof one pound coin is encapsulated and housed in the original box, complete with certificate of authenticity.

An essential addition for the Silver collectors amongst you.