-
Inventory:
1 In Stock
- Product ID: 19708
Checkout
The Great Britain Proof Set 1976 offers a captivating glimpse into British numismatics during the mid-20th century, encapsulating both historical significance and exceptional craftsmanship. This set, issued by the Royal Mint, includes a selection of coins struck in proof quality, showcasing the high standards of minting and design that characterized British coinage of the era. The year 1976 holds particular historical importance, marking the mid-point of Queen Elizabeth II's reign and reflecting the broader socio-economic context of Britain during the 1970s.
The 1976 Proof Set includes coins of various denominations, each meticulously struck to high proof standards. The set typically comprises the one penny, two pence, five pence, ten pence, and twenty pence coins, all featuring designs that highlight both traditional elements and contemporary stylistic choices. The coins are produced with a mirror-like finish and frosted designs, a hallmark of proof coins that enhances their aesthetic appeal and ensures their high-quality presentation. This set is highly regarded by collectors for its aesthetic beauty and historical relevance, as it captures a snapshot of British currency at a significant moment in its history.
The one penny coin in the 1976 Proof Set features a design by Arnold Machin, depicting the bust of Queen Elizabeth II facing right, surrounded by the inscription “ELIZABETH II DEI GRATIA REGINA” (Elizabeth II by the Grace of God Queen). The reverse of the coin shows the traditional design of a portcullis, a symbol of the British Parliament, created by Sir Francis Edwin. The coin’s design reflects the continuation of the traditional British motifs that were prevalent in the earlier series of coins.
The two pence coin similarly features Arnold Machin’s portrait of Queen Elizabeth II on the obverse, while the reverse depicts a representation of the English rose, a symbol of the country's heritage. This design by John Bergdahl emphasizes the floral motifs that were a recurring theme in British coinage of this period. The attention to detail and the quality of the strike are evident in the crisp details and the sharp contrast between the frosted design and the mirror-like background.
The five pence coin in the set includes a depiction of Queen Elizabeth II on the obverse, with the reverse featuring the iconic Scottish thistle, another traditional symbol in British coinage. The thistle design, created by Christopher Ironside, reflects the diverse regional symbols used in British coinage to represent the United Kingdom's constituent countries. The coin’s proof finish enhances the detail of the thistle, making it a standout piece in the set.
The ten pence coin features the same obverse design of Queen Elizabeth II by Arnold Machin, while the reverse showcases a depiction of the Welsh leek, another important symbol in British coinage. The leek design, created by John Bergdahl, highlights the attention to regional representation and symbolism in British currency. The proof quality of the coin brings out the intricate details of the leek, providing a high level of visual appeal and quality.
The twenty pence coin is notable for its unique shape and design, representing the final piece of the set. The obverse continues with Arnold Machin’s portrait of Queen Elizabeth II, while the reverse features a depiction of the UK’s national emblem, the Union Jack. The Union Jack design, created by Christopher Ironside, reflects the unity and shared heritage of the United Kingdom. The coin's shape and design make it a distinctive element of the set, and its proof finish ensures that the details are sharply defined and visually striking.
The Great Britain Proof Set 1976 was minted with a total production run of approximately 100,000 sets, making it relatively accessible to collectors while still retaining its appeal. The set’s limited mintage and high-quality production contribute to its desirability among collectors and enthusiasts. The coins in the set are struck in high-quality proof, which means they feature a mirror-like background with frosted details, giving them a striking contrast and a visually appealing finish.
In terms of condition, the Great Britain Proof Set 1976 is highly regarded for its pristine state. Coins in proof condition exhibit minimal to no signs of wear, maintaining their original luster and detailed design elements. The set's presentation in its original packaging, typically a leather or cardboard case with a protective cover, further enhances its collectible value and ensures that the coins are preserved in excellent condition.
Overall, the Great Britain Proof Set 1976 stands as a testament to the craftsmanship and design excellence of British numismatics. Its combination of historical significance, high-quality production, and distinctive designs make it a valuable addition to any collection. The set offers a unique opportunity to appreciate the artistry and heritage of British coinage during a significant period in the country’s history.