Great Britain 4 Pc. Gold Britannia Set 1987 Gem Proof NGC

The Great Britain 4-Piece Gold Britannia Set of 1987 Gem Proof NGC-certified coins represents a landmark in British numismatics. This inaugural release marked the debut of the Britannia gold bullion coin series by the Royal Mint, introducing a modern counterpart to the historic sovereign and establishing a new standard for British investment gold. Consisting of four gold coins—1 ounce (£100), 1/2 ounce (£50), 1/4 ounce (£25), and 1/10 ounce (£10)—each piece was struck in .9167 fine gold (22-karat), and all four showcase a timeless design steeped in the traditions of British heritage. With their elegant proof finishes, flawless surfaces, and encapsulation by NGC as Gem Proofs, these coins have become highly prized among collectors and investors worldwide.

The 1987 release was an ambitious undertaking by the Royal Mint, created to answer the global demand for bullion coins dominated at the time by the American Gold Eagle and the South African Krugerrand. The Gold Britannia series allowed the United Kingdom to reassert itself as a leading producer of sovereign gold coinage. This initiative also coincided with the broader revival of classical imagery in British coins, reaffirming national identity during a period of evolving political and economic landscapes. As the first year of issue, the 1987 set laid the foundation for what would become one of the world’s most enduring and collectible gold coin programs.

The design featured on the obverse of each coin is the celebrated third portrait of Queen Elizabeth II by Raphael Maklouf. In this effigy, Her Majesty is depicted wearing the George IV State Diadem and facing right. The image was used on British coinage from 1985 to 1997 and is known for its regal, idealized presentation. Maklouf’s portrayal emphasizes dignity and poise while retaining a soft realism that endeared it to the public. The legend around the edge reads "ELIZABETH II DEI·GRA·REG·FID·DEF," which is Latin for "Elizabeth II, by the Grace of God, Queen, Defender of the Faith." The obverse design remained constant across all four coins in the set, providing a uniform royal presence to match the diverse denominations.

On the reverse, each coin displays a powerful standing figure of Britannia, designed by renowned sculptor Philip Nathan. Inspired by traditional allegorical representations, Nathan’s design shows Britannia in a flowing gown, standing resolute with trident in her right hand and a shield bearing the Union Jack at her side. A laurel wreath adorns her helmet, and her left arm is extended in a gesture of protection and vigilance. The reverse legend includes the coin's weight, denomination, the word “BRITANNIA,” and the year “1987.” This dramatic image fused historical symbolism with modern coin artistry and would become an enduring hallmark of the Britannia series for decades.

Each coin in the set was struck at the Royal Mint in Llantrisant, Wales, using polished dies and specially prepared planchets to achieve the mirrored fields and frosted devices characteristic of proof coinage. The minting quality is exceptional, with precise strikes, sharp detail, and high visual contrast between design elements. The set was issued in both individual and boxed formats, often accompanied by a numbered certificate of authenticity. As the first of its kind, the 1987 proof set was produced in limited quantities, making it especially coveted among collectors looking to acquire key-date Britannia issues in top condition.

The Royal Mint reported that only 6,500 complete four-coin proof sets were minted in 1987, a remarkably low mintage for a major bullion release. Each coin was composed of 22-karat gold, alloyed with a small percentage of copper to enhance durability and impart a distinct reddish hue. The total gold weight for the set is 1.85 troy ounces, spread across the four denominations. Because the set was intended for collectors rather than circulation or broad distribution, surviving examples have generally been well-preserved, though few remain in pristine, unblemished condition. Those certified as Gem Proof by NGC, indicating a high-end uncirculated coin with deeply mirrored surfaces and minimal flaws, are considered among the finest known for the issue.

In terms of presentation and visual appeal, the proof finish dramatically enhances the richness of the gold and the fine detailing of both the obverse and reverse. The mirrored fields reflect light with a glass-like sheen, while the frosted designs of Queen Elizabeth II and Britannia rise boldly from the surfaces. Each coin is encased in a tamper-proof, sonically sealed NGC holder that not only protects the coin from environmental damage but also confirms its authenticity, date, and quality. The Gem Proof designation from NGC is an assurance that the coin meets strict grading criteria for sharpness, strike, and eye appeal, placing it at the top tier of surviving examples.

The importance of the 1987 Gold Britannia Proof Set extends beyond its aesthetic and technical merits. As the origin point of the entire Britannia series, this set represents a milestone in modern British numismatics. It reflects a period of renewal and ambition within the Royal Mint, and its designs successfully bridge the ancient and contemporary aspects of national identity. The Britannia figure, rooted in Roman Britain and later adopted during the reign of Charles II, has long served as a symbol of unity, resilience, and maritime power. Reinterpreted in 1987 for a new era, she continues to stand as an enduring emblem of Britain’s past and future.

Today, demand for the 1987 Gold Britannia 4-coin set remains strong, particularly for Gem Proof examples certified by NGC. Investors and collectors alike value the combination of limited mintage, numismatic significance, and intrinsic gold content. These coins serve not only as tangible assets in precious metal portfolios but also as historical artifacts from a landmark moment in British coinage. When acquired in full set format, they offer a cohesive representation of the series’ origins and embody the artistry and innovation that continues to define the Britannia series to this day.

As time passes and the supply of untouched 1987 sets dwindles, NGC-certified Gem Proof examples are poised to grow in both prestige and value. For those building a comprehensive Britannia collection or seeking key-date gold issues with crossover appeal to collectors of British royal portraiture and historic symbolism, the 1987 Great Britain 4-Piece Gold Britannia Gem Proof Set stands as an essential acquisition—one with beauty, rarity, and historical gravitas.

• Denomination: N/A
• Year: 1987
• Diameter: N/A
• Mint Mark: N/A
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• Grade: N/A