Product Description
Specifications
2023 1oz Britannia Silver Coin – Queen Elizabeth II
Product Overview
The 2023 1oz Britannia Silver Coin (Queen Elizabeth II Edition) marks the end of an era for one of Britain's most recognisable bullion series. Struck by The Royal Mint from 1 troy ounce of .999 fine silver, this historic release features the fifth and final coinage portrait of Queen Elizabeth II.
Following the passing of Queen Elizabeth II in September 2022, the 2023 Britannia became the final annual silver bullion issue to feature Her Majesty's portrait, before the series transitioned to King Charles III. With both monarchs appearing on Britannia coins dated 2023, this is a particularly interesting year for collectors of British coinage.
Combining Philip Nathan's iconic Britannia design with four advanced security features, the coin offers a distinctive piece of British numismatic history alongside its recognised silver bullion content.
Key Features & Benefits
- 1 Troy Ounce of Silver – Contains 31.1035g of .999 fine silver.
- Final Queen Elizabeth II Britannia – The final Britannia silver bullion issue featuring Her Majesty's portrait.
- Historic 2023 Issue – Released during the transition from Queen Elizabeth II to King Charles III coinage.
- Four Security Features – Includes a latent image, surface animation, micro-text and tincture lines.
- Iconic Britannia Design – Features Philip Nathan's standing Britannia holding a trident and shield.
- British Legal Tender – Issued by The Royal Mint with a face value of £2.
- Recognised Bullion Series – Part of The Royal Mint's longstanding Britannia gold and silver coin range.
Design & Craftsmanship
Obverse: Features the fifth and final coinage portrait of Queen Elizabeth II, designed by British sculptor Jody Clark. The portrait depicts Her Majesty wearing the Royal Diamond Diadem, accompanied by inscriptions identifying the monarch and the coin's £2 denomination.
Reverse: Displays Philip Nathan's iconic standing Britannia, holding a trident and a shield bearing the Union Flag. First introduced to the Britannia bullion series in 1987, the design represents Britain's maritime heritage, strength and national identity.
The reverse incorporates four advanced security features developed by The Royal Mint:
- Latent Image – Changes between a trident and a padlock when viewed from different angles.
- Surface Animation – Fine background lines create the appearance of moving waves as the coin is tilted.
- Micro-Text – Features the Latin inscription DECUS ET TUTAMEN, meaning "An ornament and a safeguard".
- Tincture Lines – Detailed line patterns on Britannia's shield represent the colours of the Union Flag.
Together, these elements enhance the coin's visual detail while providing additional features that assist with authentication.
Authentication & Specifications
Mint: The Royal Mint
Country: United Kingdom
Year: 2023
Metal: Silver
Purity: 99.9% / .999 Fine Silver
Weight: 1 Troy Ounce (31.1035g)
Finish: Bullion
Denomination: £2 GBP
Series: Britannia
Obverse: Queen Elizabeth II
Obverse Designer: Jody Clark
Reverse: Standing Britannia
Reverse Designer: Philip Nathan
Edge: Reeded
Security Features: Latent Image, Surface Animation, Micro-Text and Tincture Lines
Packaging & Availability
Individual 2023 1oz Britannia Silver Coins (Queen Elizabeth II Edition) are supplied in protective capsules.
Mint tubes contain 25 coins and monster boxes contain 500 coins. Individual coins and bulk quantities are available, subject to stock.
Discover More
Explore our range of silver coins, featuring Australian and international bullion releases from leading mints.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is the 2023 Queen Elizabeth II Britannia Silver Coin significant?
The 2023 release is the final Britannia silver bullion issue to feature Queen Elizabeth II. It marks the end of Her Majesty's appearance on the series following her passing in September 2022 and the subsequent introduction of King Charles III coinage.
Were both Queen Elizabeth II and King Charles III featured on 2023 Britannia coins?
Yes. The Royal Mint issued 2023 Britannia bullion coins featuring both monarchs. The earlier release carries Queen Elizabeth II's portrait, while the later edition features King Charles III, making 2023 a distinctive transition year for the series.
How do the Britannia's security features work?
The security features are incorporated directly into the coin's reverse design. Tilting the coin reveals the changing latent image and animated wave background, while micro-text and detailed tincture lines provide additional visual elements for examination.
Why is Britannia featured on British bullion coins?
Britannia has represented Britain for centuries, appearing on British coinage since the seventeenth century. Her trident, shield and maritime symbolism reflect Britain's history and identity, making her a natural choice for The Royal Mint's Britannia bullion series.