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The Great Britain 2015 Proof Set Collector Edition is an outstanding release from the Royal Mint, combining the complete range of Britain’s circulating coinage with several exceptional commemorative coins, all struck in brilliant proof quality. This edition is particularly significant as it marks the transition between two royal portraits—featuring the final appearance of Queen Elizabeth II’s fourth definitive effigy by Ian Rank-Broadley before the introduction of Jody Clark’s fifth effigy later that year. For collectors, this set offers a fascinating snapshot of numismatic history, exceptional craftsmanship, and national pride, making it one of the most desirable modern British coin sets.
The 2015 Collector Edition includes thirteen coins: the standard circulating £1, 50p, 20p, 10p, 5p, 2p, and 1p; the bi-metallic £2; and a series of special commemorative coins, including the £5 crown celebrating the birth of Princess Charlotte, two £2 commemoratives (World War I Royal Navy and the Magna Carta 800th Anniversary), and a 50p commemorating the 75th anniversary of the Battle of Britain. This blend of circulating and commemorative coins ensures a rich and diverse set that appeals to a wide audience of collectors, from those focused on royal and military history to those who collect British coinage year by year.
The obverse of each coin features Queen Elizabeth II’s fourth definitive portrait by Ian Rank-Broadley, which had been in use since 1998 and was replaced later in 2015. The portrait shows the Queen facing right, wearing the Girls of Great Britain and Ireland Tiara, surrounded by the legend “ELIZABETH II D·G·REG·F·D” and the year of issue. The proof strike delivers sharp, frosted detail against highly polished mirrored fields, achieving the classic cameo effect that collectors treasure.
The reverse designs in the 2015 set are both historically significant and artistically impressive:
All coins are struck in their standard circulating alloys—bi-metallic for the £2, nickel-brass for the £1, cupronickel for the silver-colored denominations, and copper-plated steel for the 1p and 2p—but the proof striking elevates them with impeccable finish, sharp detail, and brilliant contrast. The Royal Mint’s proof process involves multiple strikes using polished dies on specially prepared planchets, resulting in a flawless, collector-grade appearance.
The 2015 Collector Edition is housed in a luxurious Royal Mint presentation case, with an acrylic display capsule to protect and showcase the coins. The set is accompanied by a certificate of authenticity and an informative booklet detailing the historical background, designer insights, and technical specifications of each coin. Collectors highly value sets that remain complete with original packaging and documents, as these ensure authenticity and preserve market value over time.
Because 2015 was a transitional year in British numismatics, this set carries additional historical significance. It marks the farewell to Ian Rank-Broadley’s portrait, which had appeared on British coinage for seventeen years, and is part of a pivotal moment when the Royal Mint prepared to introduce Jody Clark’s updated effigy of Queen Elizabeth II. As such, the 2015 Collector Edition appeals not only for its artistry but also for its role in capturing a key chapter in the story of British coinage.
In terms of condition, proof sets from this period are expected to be flawless or near-flawless if properly stored, displaying brilliant mirrored fields, crisp frosted devices, and no evidence of haze, toning, or contact marks. Coins submitted for third-party grading often achieve high designations such as PF68 or PF69, reflecting the Royal Mint’s exacting standards and the care typically shown by collectors.
This set appeals to a broad range of collectors, from enthusiasts of British royal commemoratives and military history to those completing full annual proof runs or building a portrait series of the Queen’s reign. It also serves as an excellent gift or keepsake for anyone interested in British history, offering a beautifully presented tribute to the country’s traditions and milestones.
In conclusion, the Great Britain 2015 Proof Set Collector Edition is a richly varied, beautifully executed collection that highlights the Royal Mint’s artistry and commemorates pivotal national events. With its superior proof finish, historical and royal commemoratives, limited mintage, and elegant presentation, it remains a prized addition to modern British numismatics and an enduring tribute to the legacy of Queen Elizabeth II and British history.