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The Britain 2016 The Army 'Shoulder to Shoulder' £2 Silver Proof Piedfort Coin is a stunning tribute to the history and service of the British Army. Issued by The Royal Mint, this remarkable coin honors the dedication, bravery, and camaraderie of the men and women who have served in the British Armed Forces. As part of a series of commemorative £2 coins recognizing the different branches of the military, this release specifically celebrates the British Army’s role in protecting the nation, defending its interests abroad, and maintaining peace and security worldwide. Struck in piedfort format, the coin is twice as thick and heavy as a standard £2 silver proof coin, making it an exceptional collector's item.
The British Army has a long and distinguished history dating back to its formal establishment in 1660, though military forces in England existed long before that. From the Napoleonic Wars to the two World Wars and more recent conflicts, the British Army has played a pivotal role in shaping global history. Its soldiers have been recognized for their courage, discipline, and unwavering commitment to duty, often working shoulder to shoulder in the face of immense challenges. The 2016 'Shoulder to Shoulder' £2 Silver Proof Piedfort Coin pays homage to this spirit of unity and perseverance, encapsulating the essence of military service.
The obverse of the coin features the fifth definitive portrait of Queen Elizabeth II, designed by Jody Clark. This portrait, introduced in 2015, depicts the Queen in right-facing profile, wearing the George IV State Diadem, a crown frequently seen in her official portraits. The surrounding inscription reads "ELIZABETH II • D • G • REG • F • D • 2 POUNDS," meaning "Elizabeth II, by the Grace of God, Queen, Defender of the Faith." This portrait, which remained in use until her passing in 2022, reflects the continuity and stability of the monarchy during her reign, further emphasizing the historical significance of the coin.
The reverse design of the 2016 'Shoulder to Shoulder' £2 Silver Proof Piedfort Coin was created by graphic designer Tim Sharp. The design features a powerful depiction of three soldiers marching in unison, symbolizing the unity, discipline, and teamwork that define the British Army. The phrase "SHOULDER TO SHOULDER" is inscribed below the figures, reinforcing the theme of solidarity and mutual support among troops. The design conveys a sense of movement and purpose, capturing the essence of military service while honoring the countless individuals who have dedicated their lives to the British Army.
The Royal Mint’s craftsmanship is on full display in this coin’s production, as every element of the design has been rendered with remarkable precision. The details in the soldiers’ uniforms, the positioning of their strides, and the depth of the engraving highlight the exceptional skill of the Mint’s artisans. The proof finish further enhances the beauty of the design, creating a striking contrast between the frosted relief and the mirror-like background. This meticulous attention to detail ensures that the coin serves as both a historical tribute and an exquisite work of numismatic art.
The mintage of the 2016 'Shoulder to Shoulder' £2 Silver Proof Piedfort Coin was strictly limited, making it a highly desirable piece among collectors. Piedfort coins are traditionally produced in lower numbers than standard proof issues, adding to their rarity and collectible appeal. Given the enduring significance of the British Army and the popularity of military-themed numismatic releases, this coin has remained a sought-after item in the collecting community. Its status as a limited-mintage proof piedfort coin ensures that it will continue to be a valuable and prestigious collectible for years to come.
The condition of the 2016 'Shoulder to Shoulder' £2 Silver Proof Piedfort Coin is flawless, having been struck to the highest proof standard. Proof coins undergo a meticulous production process, including multiple strikes from specially prepared dies, ensuring that the design is rendered with extraordinary clarity. The polished fields of the coin provide a stunning mirror-like finish, while the frosted relief creates an eye-catching contrast. This level of precision allows collectors to appreciate the fine details in the soldiers' figures and the depth of the engraving, making it a visually impressive and historically meaningful piece.
The coin is presented in an elegant display case, accompanied by a certificate of authenticity from The Royal Mint. This premium packaging protects the coin while also enhancing its presentation, making it an ideal display piece for collectors and military enthusiasts. The certificate provides essential information about the coin’s specifications, including its silver content, weight, diameter, and mintage limit, offering collectors reassurance of its authenticity and value. The combination of expert craftsmanship, historical significance, and premium packaging makes this coin a standout addition to any collection.
The Britain 2016 The Army 'Shoulder to Shoulder' £2 Silver Proof Piedfort Coin serves as a lasting tribute to the dedication and sacrifice of British soldiers. The British Army has been instrumental in shaping the nation's history, from its role in defending the homeland to its participation in international peacekeeping efforts. This coin honors the values that define military service—loyalty, discipline, courage, and camaraderie—ensuring that the legacy of the Army is preserved in a tangible and meaningful way.
For investors, the 2016 'Shoulder to Shoulder' £2 Silver Proof Piedfort Coin represents an excellent opportunity to acquire a high-quality numismatic piece with both historical and intrinsic value. The fine silver composition ensures that the coin holds material worth, while its limited mintage and exceptional design add a numismatic premium. Unlike standard bullion coins, proof piedfort issues tend to appreciate in value due to their superior craftsmanship and the strong demand for commemorative releases. This particular edition, honoring the British Army, holds even greater long-term investment potential.
The Royal Mint has a long-standing tradition of producing coins that commemorate Britain’s most important historical events and institutions. The 2016 'Shoulder to Shoulder' £2 Silver Proof Piedfort Coin continues this tradition, offering a dignified and beautifully executed tribute to one of the nation’s most respected institutions. The artistry, precision, and high-quality finish of this coin make it a standout piece in modern numismatics.
The symbolism in this coin’s design speaks to the strength and unity of the British Army. The soldiers depicted on the reverse stand together, emphasizing the importance of teamwork and solidarity in the face of adversity. This imagery resonates deeply with those who have served, as well as with collectors who appreciate the historical and cultural significance of military-themed numismatics. The phrase "SHOULDER TO SHOULDER" further reinforces the idea of mutual support, echoing the Army’s core values and traditions.
The acquisition of the Britain 2016 The Army 'Shoulder to Shoulder' £2 Silver Proof Piedfort Coin is a meaningful choice for collectors, military historians, and numismatic enthusiasts. Whether displayed in a collection, preserved as an investment, or given as a cherished gift, this coin holds immense value. Its breathtaking design, historical significance, and flawless proof quality ensure that it will be treasured for generations to come.
The 2016 Britain The Army 'Shoulder to Shoulder' £2 Silver Proof Piedfort Coin is a masterpiece of numismatic artistry, capturing the enduring legacy of the British Army. With its stunning design, limited mintage, and connection to one of the most esteemed institutions in British history, this coin is an essential addition to any serious collection. Its beauty, historical depth, and numismatic prestige make it one of the most compelling military-themed commemorative issues of the modern era.