10 Facts About The Britannia Coin

Since it was first launched, the Britannia coin has become extremely popular with both investors and collectors. 2023 marked a new chapter in the coin series as the 2023 King Charles III Britannia coins became the first ever Britannias not to feature Queen Elizabeth II on the obverse.

Struck in both gold and silver by The Royal Mint for over 30 years, how much do you really know about the iconic Britannia coin?

3. The first silver Britannia arrived 10 years later

Silver Britannia coins were minted from 1997 onwards (the first year released only as a proof coin) and were minted in ‘Britannia Silver’ (958.0 purity). From 2013 onwards, the silver 1oz coins have been minted in 999.0 silver.

4. The image of Britannia was first featured on Roman coins way back in 119AD

‘Britannia’ was the Roman name for Great Britain. It was commonplace for the Romans to personify countries as female figures, and so the early coins showed Britannia in female form to depict the colonisation of a conquered Britain.

5. Britannia has appeared on coins issued under every British monarch since the seventeenth century

During the reign of Charles II, Britannia made a comeback on Britain’s coins and was portrayed as a symbol of protection, the ruler of the seas, after it was pointed out that Britannia had been shown on Roman coins seated amongst the waves. Britannia has since appeared on coins issued under every British monarch since the seventeenth century, her image altering subtly over time, yet always undeniably a great British symbol of unity, liberty and strength.

6. The design of the Britannia coin has changed, on occasion, throughout the years

The iconic reverse design is by sculptor Philip Nathan, and was first created for the coin’s 1987 launch, portraying the heroic figure of Britannia in long flowing robes standing upon the rocks. In her right hand Britannia holds her trident, while her left hand holds an olive branch and rests upon a shield, representing peace and protection. However, there have been a few variations over the years, including two standing poses, a seated pose, Britannia riding a chariot, a helmeted Britannia, and Britannia with the Union Jack flag.

Along with the gold UK Sovereign coin, gold and silver Britannia coins are exempt from Capital Gains Tax (CGT) for UK investors, as the Britannia is a legal tender coin and sterling currency.

9. Fractional sizes are available

Gold Britannia coins are available as a 1oz coin; however, they are also issued in smaller fractional sizes of one-half, one-quarter, and one-tenth of a troy ounce with face values of £50, £25, and £10.

10. The Britannia is recognised worldwide

As one of the world’s most beloved and recognisable coins, the Britannia can be traded virtually anywhere in the world, at any time. To date, millions of ounces of gold and silver have been used in the minting of the Britannia, and the coin remains one of the most traded gold bullion coins in the world.

With so much rich history behind it, the UK Britannia is surely a coin to possibly consider adding to any precious metals investment portfolio for those looking for a dependable coin for investment.

If you have any questions or would like to know more about buying or selling gold bullion or silver bullion, please call and speak to a member of the team on 0121 355 0620 or send an email to info@atkinsonsbullion.com.