Gold investment coin 1 Oz 100 GBP Britannia 2027

The Britannia gold investment coin, the pride of The Royal Mint, first appeared in 1997. In 2027, it will therefore celebrate its 30th anniversary, and to mark this occasion, a commemorative issue is being released, weighing one troy ounce.

The figure of the proud Britannia has for two thousand years symbolised strength, resilience and courage – values that are most dear to the island nation. This allegorical personification of Britain, in the form of a graceful goddess armed with Neptune’s trident, a shield and a Corinthian helmet, first appeared on coins around the year 119 AD. At that time, Britain was a Roman province ruled by Emperor Hadrian. After the fall of the Roman Empire, Britannia faded from view, but reappeared in the 16th century – during the Elizabethan era, when she came to symbolise British maritime power. In the centuries that followed, she became a cultural icon; during the world wars, she appeared on propaganda posters to rally the British people behind the war effort, and adorned stamps and banknotes. Naturally, she once again became the subject of metal currency – beginning with Charles II, she has appeared on the reverse of coins issued by all British monarchs.

The reverse of the coin features a classic relief by Philip Nathan – alongside her trident and shield, Britannia also holds an olive branch, symbolising peace. The composition of the reverse is completed by the jubilee numeral 30. The obverse side of the coin is dedicated to the issuer’s attributes – a portrait of King Charles III, the inscription CHARLES III D G REX F D (Charles III, by the Grace of God, King, Defender of the Faith) and the nominal value 100 POUNDS (GBP).

As well as being a sound investment, this jubilee coin also makes an attractive addition to any numismatic collection.