Great Britain 2016 Proof Set Collector Edition

The Great Britain 2016 Proof Set Collector Edition is a beautifully crafted and historically meaningful release from the Royal Mint, offering collectors a complete and luxurious presentation of Britain’s circulating and commemorative coins for the year. Struck in superb proof quality, this set highlights both the evolving artistry of British coinage and the country’s rich historical and cultural legacy. With flawless details, mirror-like fields, and limited mintage, the 2016 Collector Edition stands out as an essential acquisition for numismatists and a treasured keepsake for those interested in British history and monarchy.

The 2016 Collector Edition includes thirteen coins: the standard circulating £1, 50p, 20p, 10p, 5p, 2p, and 1p; the bi-metallic £2; and several important commemorative issues. Notable among these are the £5 crown celebrating the Queen’s 90th birthday, two £2 commemoratives marking the 350th anniversary of the Great Fire of London and the 400th anniversary of Shakespeare’s death, and a 50p coin commemorating the Battle of Hastings 950th anniversary. Together, these coins reflect the United Kingdom’s royal milestones, literary contributions, and pivotal historic events, making the set richly diverse and culturally resonant.

The obverse of each coin features the fifth definitive portrait of Queen Elizabeth II, designed by Jody Clark, which was introduced in 2015. This contemporary effigy depicts the Queen facing right, wearing the George IV State Diadem, with finely detailed hair and facial features, surrounded by the inscription “ELIZABETH II D·G·REG·F·D” and the year. In proof condition, the obverse is exquisitely struck, with frosted relief standing out against mirror-polished fields, providing the exceptional cameo effect for which proof coins are renowned.

The reverse designs in the 2016 set are particularly rich and varied:

• £5 crown: Designed by Christopher Hobbs, featuring a garland of roses, daffodils, thistles, and shamrocks representing the United Kingdom, honoring Queen Elizabeth II’s 90th birthday.
• £2 (Great Fire of London): Designed by Aaron West, showing the City of London engulfed in flames with St. Paul’s Cathedral in the background, commemorating one of the most transformative events in London’s history.
• £2 (Shakespeare series): Three coins representing Shakespeare’s legacy—Tragedies (skull and rose), Histories (crown and sword), and Comedies (jester’s cap and stick)—each with a unique edge inscription and designed by John Bergdahl.
• £2 standard coin: Bruce Rushin’s iconic design of concentric rings symbolizing technological progress, with the edge inscription “STANDING ON THE SHOULDERS OF GIANTS.”
• 50p (Battle of Hastings): Designed by John Bergdahl, depicting the famous scene from the Bayeux Tapestry where King Harold is struck by an arrow, commemorating the 950th anniversary of this pivotal battle.
• 50p (standard): Christopher Ironside’s seated Britannia, a classic symbol of Britain’s strength.
• 20p: The crowned Tudor rose.
• 10p: A crowned lion.
• 5p: A crowned Scottish thistle.
• 2p: The Badge of the Prince of Wales with feathers.
• 1p: The crowned portcullis, symbolizing Parliament.
• £1: The Royal Arms, the final £1 round coin before the transition to the 12-sided bimetallic version in 2017.

All coins are struck in their regular circulating alloys—bi-metallic for £2, nickel-brass for £1, cupronickel for the silver-colored denominations, and copper-plated steel for the 1p and 2p—but the proof striking elevates their appearance dramatically. Using multiple strikes on polished planchets, the Royal Mint achieves razor-sharp detail, flawless surfaces, and striking cameo contrast that make these coins true collector’s pieces.

The 2016 Collector Edition is presented in a luxurious Royal Mint-branded case, with an acrylic display holder to protect and showcase the coins. It is accompanied by an informative booklet detailing the historical background, design process, and technical specifications of each coin, along with a certificate of authenticity. Sets that remain complete with all original packaging and paperwork are particularly prized on the collector market and help preserve long-term value.

The mintage for the 2016 Collector Edition was strictly limited, adding to its scarcity and desirability. Its combination of royal, historical, literary, and cultural themes makes it a deeply meaningful set that appeals to a wide audience—whether one is interested in the monarchy, British history, Shakespearean heritage, or significant national events. For collectors assembling annual runs or focusing on British commemoratives, the 2016 edition is a particularly rich and varied entry.

Condition-wise, proof sets from this era are expected to be flawless or near-flawless if stored correctly, displaying brilliant mirrored fields, sharply frosted details, and no visible signs of haze, toning, or handling. Coins that have been professionally graded frequently achieve high ratings, such as PF68 or PF69, reflecting the Royal Mint’s meticulous production standards and the care shown by collectors.

This set appeals to a broad spectrum of collectors, including those interested in royal commemoratives, historic anniversaries, literary themes, and national symbolism. It also makes an excellent gift or heirloom, offering a lasting tribute to the cultural and historical richness of the United Kingdom at a key moment in the 21st century.

In conclusion, the Great Britain 2016 Proof Set Collector Edition is a masterfully curated collection that celebrates Britain’s past, present, and future through the art of coinage. With its superior proof finish, limited mintage, and diverse lineup of themes, it remains a highly prized addition to modern British numismatics and a beautiful testament to national pride and craftsmanship.

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• Year: 2016
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