2019 Great Britain 1 oz Silver Britannia BU

Silver Britannia Coins from the U.K.

When the United Kingdom decided to release the Silver Britannia, they wanted a design that would appeal to collectors and give a stamp of trust for investors. After 10 years of popularity for the Gold version, the 1 oz Silver Britannia was issued in 1997. The first issue had a low mintage of 20,000. Initially, this coin series was made with .958 fine Silver. Starting in 2013, the Silver used for the Britannia coin was improved to .999 fine quality. The face value of the coin is £2, although the Silver contained within is worth more.

Great Britain prides itself on strength and tradition, which is why the Britannia design was chosen. Her powerful features and striking profile are the perfect attributes for a quality bullion coin. While it is true that Silver has a beauty all its own, the imagery used on different coins adds collectible value. Citizens of the U.K. are very fond of Britannia coins and make it a point to acquire pieces from every series.

1 oz Britannia Silver Coins with the Fifth Portrait of the Queen

Each year, the Silver Britannia is struck with a likeness of Queen Elizabeth II on the obverse. The 2019 1 oz Britannia features what is called the Fifth Portrait, known as an elegant, mature representation of Her Majesty. This portrait was created by Jody Clark, an engraver at the Royal Mint. The denomination of 2 pounds sterling is also shown, along with the text “Elizabeth II.”

On the reverse, the mythical Britannia stands tall, her garments blowing in the salty winds of the sea. The artwork is said to be inspired by the Roman goddess Boudica. This timeless figure was first used on the florins minted for Edward VII and was initially engraved by G.W. DeSaulles.

The Standing Britannia portrait seen on 2019 Silver Britannia coins was used initially on the florins of Edward VII from 1902 to 1910.