Like many other mints, the Royal Mint issues bullion coins in precious metals, having much higher intrinsic value than their face value. The five ounces (5 oz) gold coins are denominated as either ten pounds (£10) or five hundred pounds (£500).
The coins are legal tender but are not intended for circulation. They are targeted at bullion investors or collectors who appreciate the special editions as pieces of art. The coins are typically "one-year" types usually issued in parallel with smaller denominations with the same reverse designs.
This gold five-ounce coin denominated as £10 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. |