Silver Ounce 2016 Shakespeare, 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) silver coins are denominated as either two pounds (£2) or five pounds (£5), depending on the occasion.

Initially, these were only of the Britannia type, but in 2015 the Royal Mint started to use the format for coins with other types of reverse designs, celebrating various aspects of British heritage.

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.

This commemorative 1 oz silver proof coin marks 400 years since the death of William Shakespeare.

William Shakespeare, also known as The Bard of Avon, was perhaps the greatest writer who ever lived, a national icon and titan of English literature. His works remain as relevant and compelling today as they were when they were first performed during Tudor times. His is a treasure trove of theatrical masterpieces; their craft, wit and brilliance transcends the ages.

Designed by Tom Phillips, the reverse was inspired by the best-known portrait of William Shakespeare, an engraving that appears in the famous First Folio of his plays. The design is finished with the quotation "Put money in thy purse", chosen by the artist from Shakespeare’s tragedy Othello.