1983 Elizabeth II 'Royal Arms, representing the United Kingdom' £1 Coin
Price: £8.00
Product code: HIS83ARM2
- The 1983 pound coin was the first British coin to be struck with the Llantrisant mint mark - a cross crosslet symbol on the milled edge. The Royal Mint strikes their coins in Llantrisant. Llantrisant means 'Church or Parish of the Three Saints Illtyd, Gwynno and Dyfodwg'.
- Designed by Eric Sewell, the reverse of the coin features the Royal Arms of Elizabeth II, showing the English lion and the Scottish tethered unicorn flanking the quartered shield containing the historic coat of arms of England, Scotland and Ireland.
- The obverse shows the second coinage portrait of Elizabeth II, designed by Arnold Machin.
- The edge Inscription reads DECUS ET TUTAMEN, which translates to 'An Ornament and a Safeguard'. This refers to the edge inscriptions original purpose to prevent the clipping of coins, first introduced in 1662.
- Presented in sleek, premium packaging featuring The Royal Mint’s logo
- Serves as a meaningful gift or the perfect gateway into coin collecting
- Certified authenticity by The Royal Mint
The United Kingdom regularly reviews its coinage to adapt to economic and practical needs. By 1980, the declining purchasing power of money made it evident that the £1 currency unit was better suited to a coin than a banknote. The £1 note, heavily used, had an average lifespan of just nine months, whereas coins could last over 40 years. Additionally, the growing vending industry underscored the need for a durable coin.
Following consultations with retailers and other stakeholders, the government announced on 31 July 1981 that a new £1 coin would be introduced on 21 April 1983. The round £1 coin was designed to be easily distinguishable: it was thicker than other coins and featured a distinctive yellow colour to stand out from the silver-toned cupro-nickel coins in circulation. Its weight was determined by balancing cost considerations with the potential introduction of higher denomination coins in the future.
The reverse designs of the round £1 coin celebrated the United Kingdom and its four constituent nations—Scotland, Wales, Northern Ireland, and England. The first series showcased floral emblems, while the second series adopted heraldic themes.
*Image is representative of the coin you will receive
**Struck for general circulation and subsequently acquired by The Royal Mint from the secondary market.
Specification
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| Denomination | £1 |
| Alloy | Nickel Brass |
| Weight | 9.50 g |
| Diameter | 22.50mm |
| Reverse Designer | Eric Sewell |
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| Obverse Designer | Arnold Machin |
| Quality | Circulating |
| Year | 1983 |
