British History
As Seen In The Royal Mint Museum: The Queen Victoria Jubilee Medallion
In 1897, nearly 130 years ago, Queen Victoria celebrated her Diamond Jubilee after 60 years on the throne. The nation joined together in celebrations across the country.
To mark the occasion, The Royal Mint set out on a mission to create a special jubilee medallion, compensating for the fact that there would be no exclusive coinage in 1897.
The result was a coin-size medal, equivalent in diameter to an old shilling. It was produced in gold, silver and bronze. The varying price points made it accessible and enormously popular, with sales of the silver medal reaching 250,000 before the Mint had to cap orders.
The process of producing a medal design that would look good in the various metals and finishes resulted in lots of ‘experiments’, many of which are housed in The Royal Mint museum to this day.
They describe how they have “a tray of these bronze Diamond Jubilee medals ranging from a deep chocolate colour to a shinier brassy treatment, and many hues and subtle variations in between. One specimen even displays an inked-on reference to it having received six blows from the dies, illustrating the care and attention taken to this process of experimentation.”
A fascinating insight into minting history, as well as the commemorations of the past, you can see the similarities in our own modern need to mark the milestone anniversaries of our own time, with the Platinum Jubilee of Queen Elizabeth II for example.
How You Can Own a Diamond Jubilee Medallion
Today, you have the opportunity to own one of these historic medallions for yourself – the very same as those in the archive of The Royal Mint museum.
Specially curated for the 125th anniversary of Queen Victoria’s passing – the medallion is included within The Queen Victoria Complete Jubilee Set, the perfect tribute to the height of the Victorian era.
Alongside the truly special Diamond Jubilee Medallion, your set includes a complete set of 1887 coinage. Struck in the year of Victoria’s first jubilee, known as her ‘Golden Jubilee’ for 50 years on the throne. It was the very first year to feature the new ‘Jubilee’ portrait, which is the rarest of Victorian coinage.
Bringing these two elements together, gives a complete collection – covering both of Victoria’s jubilee celebrations in one prestigious collection.
Click here to find out more about this museum quality collection and how you can own it >>
The Battle of Britain Silver Sovereign DateStamp™
On 15th September 1940, the skies above Britain became the stage for one of the most decisive moments of the Second World War. This day, now marked as Battle of Britain Day, witnessed RAF pilots confronting the largest Luftwaffe assault of the war. Their success not only safeguarded Britain from invasion but also provided a much-needed turning point in the Allied war effort.
Eighty-five years later, this remarkable chapter of history is being honoured through the release of the Battle of Britain Silver Sovereign DateStamp™, a unique collectable that preserves the memory of that moment for generations to come.
The Role of DateStamps™ in Preserving History
DateStamps™ are a special type of collectable that combine official coins or medals with a one-day-only postmark. This practice effectively locks a piece of history into place, creating a permanent record of a significant date.
For military anniversaries, this makes DateStamps™ particularly meaningful. They don’t just tell us about history; they anchor us to the exact moment when events shaped the course of nations.
What Makes the Battle of Britain Silver Sovereign DateStamp™ Special
This release brings together several distinctive features:
- Struck in 99.9% Pure Silver – finished to an exceptional Proof standard.
- Official Royal Approval – the design and issue are formally approved by Buckingham Palace.
- Commemorative Design – the intricate detailing pays tribute to the bravery of the RAF pilots who defended Britain in 1940.
- Historic Postmark – each piece is officially postmarked by Royal Mail with the Battle of Britain Day 85th Anniversary, 15th September 2025.
- Limited Edition – only 750 of these Sovereigns will be postmarked, no more will ever be able to be created
Military DateStamps™: A Tradition of Significance
Military-themed DateStamps™ have proven especially resonant with collectors. Past issues, such as those commemorating VE Day, have been met with widespread interest. This reflects not only their collectable appeal but also a deeper public recognition of the importance of preserving military heritage in tangible form.
By combining artistry, authenticity, and historical context, these DateStamps™ ensure that pivotal moments like the Battle of Britain are remembered not just in textbooks, but through physical keepsakes passed down through families.
Remembering Through Collecting
The Battle of Britain Silver Sovereign DateStamp™ serves as a reminder of the courage and sacrifice of “The Few,” whose actions safeguarded Britain’s freedom at a critical point in history. More than a collectable, it is a time-stamped tribute to a moment that continues to resonate 85 years on.
With only 750 being postmarked on the 15th September, and will the previous history of sell-outs, stock is not expected to last long.
Marking 125 Years: A Tribute to the Queen Mother’s Legacy
On 4th August 2025, we mark the 125th anniversary of the birth of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth The Queen Mother, a royal figure revered not only for her public role, but for the profound and lasting impact she had on the British people and the wider Commonwealth. In recognition of this historic milestone, a special range of limited edition £5 commemorative coins has been released — a dignified tribute to her enduring legacy.
Explore the full Queen Mother 125th Birthday Coin Collection »
Born Lady Elizabeth Bowes-Lyon in 1900, she married the future King George VI and stood resolutely beside him as Queen Consort following the abdication of Edward VIII in 1936. In this unexpected role, she became a source of steadfast support during the Second World War, choosing to remain in London during the Blitz and famously declaring that she would not leave the King’s side, even as Buckingham Palace itself came under attack. Her courage, grace, and calm assurance earned her widespread admiration and the enduring affection of the nation.
Did you know? During a royal tour of bombed-out parts of London in 1940, the Queen Mother’s presence was so moving that one survivor recalled: “She came into my ruined home, and suddenly everything felt bearable.” It was this deep connection with the public that defined her reign as Queen Consort — and endured for the rest of her life.
Following the death of King George VI in 1952, she became known as Queen Elizabeth The Queen Mother, continuing to serve the monarchy and the public with devotion for another five decades. Her warmth and humour, as well as her unrelenting commitment to duty, made her one of the most respected and beloved members of the Royal Family. Her passing in 2002, at the age of 101, was mourned deeply across the globe.
To commemorate this significant milestone, a special range of £5 coins has been issued, celebrating the Queen Mother’s extraordinary life and legacy. Struck to the highest standards — including editions in Proof and Sterling Silver and Gold — these coins serve as a dignified tribute to a woman whose enduring influence still resonates today. Each piece has been thoughtfully presented, many accompanied by certificates of authenticity and limited edition status, offering collectors and admirers a meaningful way to honour her memory.
A Design Steeped in Royal Symbolism
The reverse shows a graceful new portrait of the Queen Mother, inspired by Richard Stone’s famous painting. She wears the Greville Tiara and Queen Alexandra’s Wedding Necklace, framed by a floral wreath for the four UK nations. Her royal monogram below completes this personal tribute.
The collection is now available online for a limited time.
View the Queen Mother 125th Birthday Commemorative Coin Range »