1990 Silver Proof PIEDFORT Five Pence Coin

To commemorate the introduction into circulation of a new, smaller five pence coin in 1990, the Royal Mint issued a limited number of silver Proof Piedfort five pence coins.

Piedfort coins are struck on thicker that normal blanks.  As their name suggests they are closely associated with France, where from the twelfth century they were apparently used by the King as presentation pieces.

The reverse of the new five pence coin features the familiar design of the Badge of Scotland, a thistle royally crowned. This design, by Christopher Ironside, was first used on the five pence piece in 1968.  The obverse features Raphael Maklouf's portrait of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II.

Specifications

This legal tender five pence coin is struck in sterling (.925) silver to Proof Piedfort quality.  It weighs 6.50 grammes and measures 18.00mm in diameter.  

Only 20,000 silver Piedfort five pence coins have been struck for worldwide distribution.

The five pence coin is encapsulated and presented in the original green Royal Mint presentation case, with certificate of authenticity.