This Elizabeth II 1954 Maundy Set is a numismatic treasure comprising four silver coins – fourpenny, threepenny, twopenny and one penny pieces – from the same year. This set is a rare collection of official Maundy pieces, traditionally presented in an undated case. The tradition of British monarchs distributing Maundy money began in 1662 during the reign of Charles II when undated hammered coins were bestowed upon recipients. These coins, purposefully minted for this ceremonial occasion, comprised a quartet of denominations: four pence, three pence, two pence and one penny. In 1670, the practice evolved into issuing dated sets featuring all four coins. 

Notably, the essence of Maundy money has remained remarkably constant since 1670, with the coins used for the Maundy ceremony continuing to be struck in 925 sterling silver. This 1954 issue showcases the youthful portrait of Queen Elizabeth II by Mary Gillick on the obverse, whilst the reverse of each coin features a crowned numeral encompassed by a wreath, a design with historical roots tracing back to the reign of William III and Mary II.