Posts Tagged ‘king charles III’
The National Gallery: A Journey Through Art and Time
In the bustling heart of London, the National Gallery began its life in 1824, initially occupying the former townhouse of banker John Julius Angerstein at No.100 Pall Mall. The modest beginning—with just 38 paintings—was the spark for what would grow into one of the world’s most revered art institutions. In April 1824 the House of Commons agreed to pay £57,000 for the picture collection of the banker John Julius Angerstein. His 38 pictures were intended to form the core of a new national collection, for the enjoyment and education of all.
The Evolution of a Landmark
The National Gallery’s early days at No.100 Pall Mall weren’t exactly glamorous. It was small, stuffy, and constantly packed, making it a bit of an embarrassment compared to the grandeur of the Louvre in Paris. However, Agar Ellis, a trustee of the gallery, saw its location on Pall Mall as crucial, right in the heart of London’s hustle and bustle.
In 1832, construction started on a new building by William Wilkins, replacing the old Royal Mews in Charing Cross. Positioned between the affluent West End and less privileged areas to the east, its location was strategic. The idea was to make the collection accessible to people from all walks of life, prioritising social inclusion over concerns like city pollution or architectural flaws.
Even as the possibility of moving to South Kensington arose in the 1850s, the emphasis remained on making art available to everyone. As stated by the Parliamentary Commission of 1857, the purpose of the collection wasn’t just to display pictures, but to enrich the lives of the people, regardless of their social standing.
Today, the National Gallery is a vibrant hub for art lovers of all backgrounds. It’s diverse collection, ranging from iconic masterpieces to hidden gems, offers endless opportunities for exploration and inspiration. Through exhibitions, educational programs, and digital initiatives, the gallery provides a welcoming environment where everyone can engage with art.
Celebrating 200 Years of Art
In recognition of its 200th anniversary, the National Gallery is celebrated with a special coin designed by Edwina Ellis, known for her detailed engravings. The coin beautifully features the gallery at its center, surrounded by the inscription of the anniversary. This keepsake is not just a piece of metal but a symbol of the gallery’s enduring legacy, available in gold, silver, and uncirculated editions.
The edge of the coin bears the inscription ‘MAIORVM GLORIA POSTERIS LVMEN EST’, meaning “The glory of our ancestors is a light to our descendants.” This phrase, inscribed in the gallery’s very architecture, encapsulates the essence of the National Gallery: a portal to the past and a beacon for the future.
Explore the whole National Gallery £2 range now by clicking here >>
Spotlight On: The King Charles III Commemorative
Today we’re shining a spotlight on the perfect royal keepsake – The King Charles III Commemorative.
This release has taken the numismatic world by storm. Standing out thanks to its royal significance and its distinguished heraldic design, collectors have been ordering in their thousands!
Read on to find out why…
A Regal Design
The crest design features a striking portrait of His Majesty, King Charles III along with a detailed illustration of the St. Edward’s Crown – the centrepiece of Great Britain’s regalia.
Inspired by a love of nature
Much like the UK’s New Definitive Coins, the design has also taken inspiration from His Majesty’s love of nature with the inclusion of illustrated roses and thistles.
A new era of British History
The date of King Charles III’s Coronation – 6th May 2023 – has been carefully inscribed to mark the moment His Majesty’s journey as crowned sovereign began. As the FIRST Coronation in OVER 70 years, it was the moment that officially started a new era in Great Britain’s history.
The perfect keepsake for your family
Whether you are a seasoned collector or just beginning your collecting journey, the King Charles III Commemorative is the perfect keepsake for your family to remember this momentous occasion in British history.
Claim your King Charles III Commemorative for FREE (+p&p)
You can secure The King Charles III Commemorative for FREE (+p&p) when you trial the Long To Reign Over Us Collection. You’ll gain exclusive access to the new, limited edition commemorative series which chronicles His Majesty’s inaugural years as monarch. And you’ll unveil a host of exclusive FREE GIFTS when you continue your collecting journey. You can cancel at any time.
How to Secure Canada’s FIRST King Charles III Coins
The Royal Canadian Mint have just unveiled their official effigy of His Majesty King Charles III with a brand-new coin set.
Read on to find out what makes this set so sought-after, and how you can secure one…
As the first set to feature the Canadian effigy of King Charles III, demand has already been extremely be high.
In fact, Canada’s First King Charles III 50 Cent Rolls sold-out a whopping edition limit of 25,000 in JUST 4 hours.
These uncirculated sets include the sought-after Canadian coins in uncirculated quality, ensuring they are free of any marks or blemishes. All six denominations are housed in this exclusive set; from the 25 Cents to the 2 Dollars and even the sought-after 50-cent piece.
Your six coins come sealed and packaged in a specially designed folder, marking the first Uncirculated Set of His Majesty’s reign with a distinctive green-and-gold colour scheme.
But, considering these coins are travelling over 3,000 miles to the UK, only 400 are available for Westminster Collectors.
To secure the first Canadian Uncirculated Coin set of King Charles III, please click here >>