The 2023 British 1 oz Silver Britannia Coin holds exceptional historical significance, marking the final appearance of Queen Elizabeth II on the Silver Britannia series. Following her passing, future issues will feature the effigy of King Charles III, positioning the 2023 release as a meaningful transitional piece in British numismatic history. As the closing chapter of a historic reign, this coin has garnered heightened interest from collectors seeking a tangible connection to this moment in time.
Key Features:
Legal tender backed by the British government
Four advanced security features introduced beginning in 2021
Contains 1 troy ounce of .999 fine silver
Brilliant Uncirculated (BU) condition
Face value of 2 British Pounds
Obverse: Portrait of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II by Jody Clark, inscribed “Elizabeth II,” “D.G.,” “REG,” “F.D.,” and “2 Pounds”
Reverse: Classic Britannia design by Philip Nathan, inscribed “Britannia,” “2023,” “1 oz,” “999,” “Fine,” “Silver”
The Silver Britannia series is produced by the Royal Mint, one of the world’s most respected mints with a history spanning more than 1,100 years. Renowned for its craftsmanship and historical commemorations, the Royal Mint has consistently delivered bullion and collector coins of exceptional quality. Since its introduction in 1987, the Silver Britannia has remained one of the most recognizable and admired bullion coins globally.
What distinguishes the Britannia series is the artistry of two of Britain’s most accomplished coin designers: Jody Clark and Philip Nathan. Their combined work elevates the Britannia beyond a standard bullion issue, transforming it into a piece of numismatic art.
The obverse features a finely detailed portrait of Queen Elizabeth II, created by Jody Clark. Clark’s design captures the Queen’s regal presence with remarkable precision, from the crown to her earrings. Surrounding inscriptions include “D.G.” and “REG,” abbreviations of the Latin phrase meaning “By the Grace of God, Queen,” along with the denomination “2 Pounds,” affirming its status as legal tender.
The reverse showcases Philip Nathan’s iconic Britannia—an enduring symbol of Britain’s strength, resilience, and sovereignty. Britannia is depicted wearing a classical toga and Corinthian-style helmet, holding a trident and an olive branch alongside a shield emblazoned with the Union flag. Encircling the design are the inscriptions “Britannia 2023 1 oz 999 Fine Silver,” with “NATHAN” appearing below as the artist’s signature.
Modern security enhancements further distinguish this issue. Integrated anti-counterfeiting features include a latent image that shifts from a trident to a padlock when viewed at different angles, animated wave patterns that appear to move with light, detailed tincture lines within the Union flag on Britannia’s shield, and micro-engraved text reading “Decus et Tutamen,” Latin for “An ornament and a safeguard.” These layered elements collectively protect the coin’s integrity while enhancing its visual appeal.
As the final Silver Britannia to bear Queen Elizabeth II’s portrait, the 2023 issue stands as both a high-quality bullion investment and a historically significant collectible.