Gold Ounce 2008 Britannia, Coin from United Kingdom - detailed information

Like many other mints, the Royal Mint issues bullion coins in precious metals, having much higher intrinsic value than their face value. The one ounce (1 oz) gold coins are denominated as One Hundred Pounds (£100).

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.

The coins of the Britannia range in 2008 bear a new reverse design, this time by artist John Bergdahl, featuring Britannia on the beach, with her robes morphing into a giant waves, and a lighthouse in the background reminiscent of British pre-decimal designs.

The Royal Mint says:
"A new standing portrait of Britannia has been created for the coins of 2008 and is the work of John Bergdahl who wanted to convey a sense of Britannia being at one with the wind and sea and to make her seem elemental. He also wanted to incorporate traditional motifs, like the lighthouse, which have long been associated with Britannia in coin designs. Britannia here is shown to be maiden-like and innocent while at the same time being a warrior princess."

The composition of the coin is 91.77% gold alloyed with 8.23% silver. The coin was issued as "bullion" (in Brilliant Uncirculated grade) and in Proof FDC grade in mint sets.