Normal021January 5, 2012 – As the nation prepares to celebrate a momentous year, the Royal Mint is proud to announce the release of two Proof sets, the 2012 Premium Proof set and the 2012 Collector Proof set, designed to be treasured as lasting mementos of an historic moment in time. Both sets contain the full range of UK circulating coins from the penny to the GBP 2 together with two commemorative coins designed to mark two historic anniversaries that fall in 2012 – The Queen’s Diamond Jubilee and the 200th anniversary of the birth of Charles Dickens.
Great Britain – 5 GBP – Cupro-nickel – 28.28 g – 38.61 mm – Design: Ian Rank-Broadley FRBS – Mintage: 3,500.
Normal021The first, a magnificent GBP 5 coin featuring two new royal portraits of The Queen, is designed by Ian Rank Broadley FRBS. The obverse portrait captures Her Majesty dressed in formal Garter Robes, with gravitas and stately bearing. The reverse, inspired by the first portrait of The Queen to appear on coins in 1953, features a young monarch classically depicted wearing a laurel wreath with the accompanying Latin words Dirige Deus Gressus Meos – May God Guide My Steps.
Great Britain – 2 GBP- Bi-metal – 12.00 g – 28.40 mm.
Normal021The second commemorative coin featured within the sets is a unique GBP 2 coin marking the 200th anniversary of the birth of Charles Dickens. Created by graphic designer, Matthew Dent, the coin features a profile of the author created from titles of some of his most famous works and features the edge inscription “Something Will Turn Up”, a phrase spoken by the ever optimistic Mr Micawber in David Copperfield, Dickens’ own favourite story. Normal021In addition, a new Royal Mint Medal for 2012 is exclusive to the Premium Proof set. The size of a crown, the obverse of the medal is struck with the Royal Mint emblem, with a decorative 2012 themed reverse.
Normal021Both proof sets are limited edition, making them rare, desirable and a must-have for any collector. Each set is struck to flawless quality and displayed within a bespoke presentation case.
Normal021Coin Specifications
The 2012 Premium Proof Set is encased within a walnut-veneer presentation case.
Normal021The 2012 Premium Proof Set Normal021Encased within a handsome walnut-veneer presentation case with its own pair of numismatist gloves the collection contains a full-colour booklet detailing information on each coin and with an integral Certificate of Authenticity, attesting to the low worldwide limited edition presentation of 3,500.
Normal021The 2012 Collector Proof Set Normal021The bespoke presentation case contains a full-colour booklet detailing information on each coin and with an integral Certificate of Authenticity attesting to the low worldwide limited edition presentation of 30,000.
Normal021You will find detailed specifications of the single coins and more information on the Proof Sets on the site of the Royal Mint.
Normal021Visit also the intriguing site specially dedicated to Dickens’ 200th birthday in 2012 by clicking here.
