Like many other mints, the Royal Mint issues bullion coins in precious metals, having much higher intrinsic value than their face value. The two ounce (2 oz) silver coins are denominated as Five Pounds (£5).
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 design is the first release in the City Views series and features London, the capital of England and of the United Kingdom.
The Mint says about it: The great cities of the world are characterised by iconic landmarks that are treasured by all of humanity. Our new City Views series celebrates breathtaking views of these architectural marvels and preserves their legacy for generations to come. The coin series will run over a number of years, with the designs featuring cities from around the world. The series begins with a coin featuring the Tower of London - a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Built by William the Conqueror as a statement of his power, this imposing stone fortress has dominated the city’s skyline for more than a thousand years. Featuring a reverse design adapted from a work by the Bohemian artist Wenceslaus Hollar (1607 - 1677) whose views of London form an important historical record of the city, the coin is available in a range of gold and silver editions. |