Like many other mints, the Royal Mint issues bullion coins in precious metals, having much higher intrinsic value than their face value. Most of these by tradition are measured in troy ounces of fractions thereof, but the mint also introduced metric coins measuring one kilogram of pure metal, then also two and five kilograms (they are actually fractionally heavier as a whole, to account for the small amount of other metal in the alloy), and finally in 2020 a seven kilogram coin.
The 7 kg gold coin is denominated as Five Thousand Pounds (£7,000), although the intrinsic (bullion) value is much higher than the face value.
The coins are legal tender but are not intended for circulation. They are targeted at collectors who appreciate the special editions as pieces of art or show pieces.
This seven-kilo (7kg) gold commemorative coin is part of the extensive James Bond Collection issued by the Royal Mint in 2020.
The James Bond series focuses on a fictional British Secret Service agent created in 1953 by writer Ian Fleming, who featured him in twelve novels and two short-story collections. Since Fleming's death in 1964, eight other authors have written authorised Bond novels or novelisations. The character - also known by his code number 007 - has also been adapted for television, radio, comic strip, video games and film.
The reverse design for the higher denominations (the Special Collection) within the range is by British artist Laura Clancy, who placed James Bond's car - an Aston Martin DB5 - centre stage, with its famous BMT 216A number plate and gun barrel surround.
She says: “I am a huge James Bond fan. I love the excitement of the stories, the twists and turns, the style, the exotic places and knowing that Bond will win the day. When the opportunity to design a Bond coin came along, I had to take on the challenge. I have found it an incredible privilege - my career high to date and my most successful project.”
The seven-kilo coin is the first one ever made by the Royal Mint in this size. It is unique (issue limit of just one). Given its large size, it could not be produced using traditional minting techniques. A combination of traditional engraving methods and modern techniques were applied: CNC engraving machines were used to carefully cut the design onto the coin and finally, the coin was then hand polished to ensure the finish is elevated to the highest possible standard, and finally areas of the design were frosted (given a matt finish) using laser cutters.
The reelase price was not revealed. |