1994 Silver Proof PIEDFORT Fifty Pence 2 COIN SET

50th Anniversary of D-Day and Single European Market

The years 1993 and 1994 have seen two impressive designs on the reverse of the fifty-pence coin to commemorate significant events in European history.  Although almont fifty years separate the historic occasions, a single theme bonds both together - a free, yet united Europe - and the Royal Mint accordingly combined these two special commemorative fifty-pence coins to form a splendid silver Proof Piedfort set.

The dual-dated fifty-pence coin celebrating these two events features a modern design created by artist Mary Milner Dickens and symbolises the close association between the twelve member states.  Twelve chairs surround a conference table seen from above with the United Kingdom, by virtue of its Presidency, prominently featured at its head.  Twelve stars placed in the geographic positions of the capital cities are joined by a network of lines signifying the trade and commercial links enjoyed throughout the Community.

Obverse - Raphael Maklouf's much acclaimed portrait of Her Majesty the Queen graces the obverse of both coins.

Specifications

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

These superb legal tender fifty-pence coins weigh 27.00 grammes, measure 30.00 millimetres in diameter, and have been struck in sterling (.925) silver the finest Proof quality.

Both coins are encapsulated side by side and housed in the original Royal Mint box with the Certificates of Authenticity for each coin.