Numismatic

2023 GB 1/4 oz Proof Platinum Britannia (King Charles III)

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The 2023 Platinum Britannia proof coin represents a significant moment in British numismatic history, combining a major royal transition with a historic milestone. This issue marks exactly 350 years since the female personification of Britannia first appeared on circulating British coinage, celebrating three and a half centuries of this enduring national symbol. On the obverse, the coin displays the official effigy of King Charles III, a portrait created by sculptor Martin Jennings. The surrounding inscriptions include the King's name, the face value of 25 Pounds, and the Latin abbreviations of his royal titles. This side also bears the artist's initials, MJ, near the base of the portrait. The reverse, designed by Jonathan Olliffe, presents a dynamic scene featuring Britannia. In this rendition, she is depicted with her traditional trident and shield, riding in a sea chariot pulled by powerful horses. The reverse inscriptions confirm the coin's specifications, including the year 2023, the weight of 1/4 ounce, and the 0.9995 platinum purity. Struck to a proof finish, this sovereign coin is backed by the British government and contains a quarter troy ounce of platinum. With a highly restricted mintage of only 200 pieces, it stands as a remarkably scarce release within the modern Britannia series.