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The Britain 2018 £2 Proof Silver Royal Air Force Piedfort (Spitfire) coin is a stunning numismatic tribute to one of the most iconic aircraft in history. Issued by The Royal Mint, this coin commemorates the Spitfire’s crucial role in the defense of Britain, particularly during World War II. The Spitfire, a legendary fighter plane, became a symbol of British resilience and ingenuity, playing a decisive role in the Battle of Britain and throughout the war. This silver proof piedfort coin, struck with double the weight and thickness of a standard proof issue, honors both the aircraft and the brave pilots who flew them in service of their country.
The Spitfire was designed by R.J. Mitchell, chief designer at Supermarine, during the 1930s. Its advanced engineering, featuring elliptical wings, a powerful Rolls-Royce Merlin engine, and exceptional maneuverability, made it one of the most effective fighter planes of its time. First taking to the skies in 1936, the Spitfire saw extensive combat during World War II, where it became synonymous with the Royal Air Force (RAF). Pilots praised the aircraft for its speed and agility, allowing them to engage enemy planes with remarkable efficiency. The Spitfire remains one of the most celebrated aircraft in aviation history and continues to captivate enthusiasts, historians, and collectors alike.
The obverse of the 2018 £2 Proof Silver Royal Air Force Piedfort (Spitfire) coin features the official portrait of Queen Elizabeth II, designed by Jody Clark. This effigy, introduced in 2015, depicts the Queen in right-facing profile, wearing the George IV State Diadem. 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 obverse design is a hallmark of modern British coinage and marks a significant period in numismatic history, as it represents one of the final commemorative issues bearing Queen Elizabeth II’s portrait.
The reverse of the coin, designed by Richard Talbot and Neil Talbot, showcases a beautifully detailed depiction of the Supermarine Spitfire in flight. The aircraft is rendered in a dynamic pose, banking as if engaged in a dogfight over the English countryside. The attention to detail in the engraving captures the sleek lines of the Spitfire’s fuselage, the elliptical shape of its wings, and the power of its Rolls-Royce engine. The surrounding inscription reads "SPITFIRE • THE ROYAL AIR FORCE • 1918-2018," commemorating the 100th anniversary of the RAF and celebrating one of its most iconic aircraft.
The Royal Mint’s craftsmanship is fully evident in the precision and quality of this coin. The proof finish enhances the beauty of the design, with frosted relief elements standing out against the deep, mirror-like fields. The Spitfire’s depiction is intricately engraved, ensuring that every element of the aircraft’s structure is visible. The piedfort format, with its increased weight and thickness, adds to the coin’s sense of importance and value, making it a standout addition to any collection.
The mintage of the 2018 £2 Proof Silver Royal Air Force Piedfort (Spitfire) coin was deliberately limited, making it a highly sought-after piece among collectors. Piedfort coins are traditionally struck in smaller numbers than standard proof issues, adding to their rarity and collectibility. Given the Spitfire’s legendary status and the historical significance of the RAF’s centenary, demand for this coin has been strong among aviation enthusiasts, military historians, and numismatists. The limited availability of the silver proof piedfort edition ensures that it remains a valuable and treasured collectible.
The condition of the 2018 £2 Proof Silver Royal Air Force Piedfort (Spitfire) coin is pristine, as it has been struck to the highest proof standard. Proof coins undergo a meticulous minting process, involving multiple strikes from specially polished dies to achieve maximum detail and clarity. The polished fields create a stunning reflective effect, contrasting beautifully with the frosted relief elements. This flawless execution ensures that the coin maintains its full numismatic and aesthetic appeal for years to come.
The coin is presented in an elegant display case, accompanied by a certificate of authenticity from The Royal Mint. This premium packaging not only protects the coin but also enhances its presentation, making it an ideal display piece for collectors. The certificate provides key details about the coin’s specifications, including its silver content, weight, diameter, and mintage limit. Collectors can take confidence in the authenticity and quality of this prestigious piece, knowing that it has been produced to the highest standards of minting excellence.
The Britain 2018 £2 Proof Silver Royal Air Force Piedfort (Spitfire) coin serves as a fitting tribute to the legacy of the Spitfire and its role in defending Britain during World War II. The aircraft’s significance extends beyond its military contributions; it represents courage, ingenuity, and perseverance. The Spitfire remains a beloved symbol of British heritage, appearing in airshows, museums, and films, and continuing to inspire new generations of aviation enthusiasts.
For investors, this 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 maintains its 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 strong collector demand. This particular edition, with its tribute to the Spitfire and the RAF centenary, holds significant long-term investment potential.
The Royal Mint has a long-standing tradition of producing coins that celebrate Britain’s military and aviation history. The 2018 £2 Proof Silver Royal Air Force Piedfort (Spitfire) coin continues this legacy, offering a dignified and beautifully executed tribute to one of the most famous aircraft in history. The combination of artistic excellence, historical significance, and numismatic rarity makes this coin one of the most distinguished aviation-themed releases in modern British coinage.
The symbolism in this coin’s design is particularly powerful. The Spitfire’s depiction in flight captures the essence of its wartime service, showcasing its agility and dominance in the skies. The centenary inscription honors the Royal Air Force and its century of service, paying tribute to the men and women who have defended Britain from the air. The combination of these elements ensures that the coin serves as both a historical tribute and a celebration of British aviation achievements.
The acquisition of the 2018 £2 Proof Silver Royal Air Force Piedfort (Spitfire) coin is an excellent choice for collectors, aviation historians, and numismatic enthusiasts. Whether displayed in a collection, preserved as an investment, or given as a meaningful 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 2018 Britain £2 Proof Silver Royal Air Force Piedfort (Spitfire) coin is a masterpiece of numismatic artistry, capturing the enduring legacy of one of the most celebrated aircraft in history. With its stunning design, limited mintage, and connection to the RAF centenary, this coin is an essential addition to any serious collection. Its beauty, historical depth, and numismatic prestige make it one of the most compelling aviation commemorative issues ever produced.