Five Pounds 2019 Crown Jewels, Coin from United Kingdom - detailed information

At the time of decimalisation in 1971, the United Kingdom Crown coin (equal to 5 shillings) was redenominated as a 25p coin and pieces struck prior to 1990 - all the way back to 1818 - continue to be legal tender for that amount. The old denomination had been a regular circulating coin in the 19th century, but in the 20th century it became more of a commemorative denomination.

The Royal Mint continued issuing commemorative coins in the same format - using the traditional coin dimensions, but in copper-nickel. These were initially also denominated as 25 pence but the "Crown" was changed in 1990 to a commemorative £5 (five pound) coin, having the same dimensions and weight but with a face value twenty times as great.

The denomination is used to mark special occasions, usually royal in theme, rather than for use in general circulation. Although not circulating, these coins are legal tender.

This commemorative £5 Crown-sized coin is part of the Tower of London Collection coin series by the Royal Mint.

The Royal Mint says:
Lost by King John in quicksand, pawned twice, melted down and even stolen by the notorious rogue ‘Colonel’ Blood, the Crown Jewels have endured a turbulent history. Today these priceless treasures are safely housed at the Tower of London.

As we continue our series of coins commemorating this mighty fortress, our attention turns to this symbolic set of royal regalia. Central to the coronation and worn by the monarch on important state occasions, this breathtaking collection of jewels and ceremonial clothing is seen by visitors from all over the world, keen to catch a glimpse of these world-famous objects. Depicted on this coin is the Crown of Mary of Modena, flanked by the mighty walls of this imposing stone fortress.