Design & History
The story behind the iconic Britannia design, from ancient Roman origins to the modern Royal Mint bullion coin.
The Britannia Legacy
Britannia, the female personification of Britain, has appeared on British coinage for centuries. Depicted with her iconic symbols—a trident representing naval power, a shield bearing the Union Flag, and a Corinthian helmet—this powerful figure represents the strength, resilience, and maritime heritage of the British Isles.
The modern Silver Britannia bullion coin, first minted in 1997, continues this proud tradition. Produced by the Royal Mint—one of the world's oldest minting institutions with continuous operation since c. 886 AD—the Silver Britannia combines classical artistry with contemporary bullion standards, advanced security features, and strong global liquidity.
Obverse: The Monarch's Portrait
The obverse of the Silver Britannia features an official portrait of the reigning British monarch, following the longstanding tradition of British coinage that provides authenticity and continuity.
- •2023–present: King Charles III portrait by Martin Jennings
- •1997–2022: Queen Elizabeth II portrait (various designs over her reign)
- •Inscriptions: Monarch's name, year of issue, and £2 denomination
The change of monarch creates natural collectibility, with many investors and collectors acquiring examples from both the Elizabeth II and Charles III eras.
Reverse: The Britannia Motif
The reverse showcases the iconic figure of Britannia, the female personification of Britain. This powerful symbol has represented British strength, resilience, and maritime heritage for over 2,000 years, dating back to Roman-era coinage.
Iconic elements: Britannia is depicted with her defining symbols—a Corinthian helmet representing classical wisdom, a trident symbolizing naval power and dominion of the seas, and a shield bearing the Union Flag. She stands against the waves, representing Britain's island heritage.
Designer: The modern Britannia design was created by sculptor Philip Nathan and introduced with the bullion series. The design has been refined over the years while maintaining its classical elegance, and since 2021 incorporates advanced security features.
Historical Origins of Britannia
The figure of Britannia has deep historical roots in British culture:
Roman Origins
The Romans first used Britannia as a personification of the British Isles on coins during the reign of Emperor Hadrian (AD 119).
Return to British Coinage
Britannia reappeared on British coinage in 1672 during the reign of Charles II, beginning a tradition that continues today.
Symbol of Maritime Power
The trident represents Britain's naval dominance, while the shield and helmet symbolize strength and protection.
Modern Bullion Era
The Silver Britannia bullion coin launched in 1997, joining the Gold Britannia (1987) as flagship Royal Mint products.
Learn more about the history of Silver Britannias at Monex Knowledge Base
The Royal Mint
The Royal Mint is one of the world's oldest and most respected mints, with a history spanning over 1,100 years:
Founded c. 886 AD
Originally located within the Tower of London, producing coins for British monarchs for centuries.
Modern Facility
Today operates from a state-of-the-art facility in Llantrisant, Wales, producing coins for the UK and over 60 other countries.
Industry-Leading Security
Pioneered advanced anti-counterfeiting technology now featured on Silver Britannias.
Global Recognition
The Royal Mint name guarantees authenticity, quality, and strong liquidity worldwide.
Design Evolution
While the core Britannia motif remains consistent, the coin has evolved significantly since its 1997 debut, with improvements to purity, security, and obverse design:
1997–2012: Classic Era
- • Philip Nathan's original Britannia design
- • .958 silver (Britannia silver) purity
- • Traditional minting techniques
- • Queen Elizabeth II portrait throughout
2013–Present: Modern Era
- • Upgraded to .999 fine silver purity (2013)
- • Advanced security features introduced (2021)
- • King Charles III portrait (from 2023)
- • Special editions with design variations
Key Dates in Silver Britannia History
Gold Britannia bullion coin launches, establishing the modern Britannia series
Silver Britannia bullion coin introduced with .958 purity and Queen Elizabeth II obverse
Purity upgraded from .958 to .999 fine silver, improving IRA eligibility and investor appeal
Royal Mint introduces advanced security features: surface animation, micro-text, radial sunburst
First Silver Britannias featuring King Charles III portrait by Martin Jennings
Silver Britannia remains the Royal Mint's flagship silver bullion product with global liquidity
Related pages