-
Inventory:
OUT OF STOCK
- Product ID: 35772
Checkout
The Great Britain 5 Pounds 1999 KM#997 PF silver Princess Diana coin stands as one of the most poignant and emotionally resonant issues of modern British numismatics. Issued by the Royal Mint to commemorate the life and legacy of Diana, Princess of Wales, this beautiful proof coin honors her enduring popularity and the profound impact she made on the United Kingdom and the world. Struck in sterling silver and finished to an exquisite proof standard, the 1999 £5 coin offers collectors a deeply symbolic tribute to the "People’s Princess," whose untimely death in 1997 shocked the world and led to an unprecedented outpouring of public mourning and affection.
The Princess Diana Memorial £5 coin was authorized by Royal Proclamation and struck in 1999, two years after her death. The issuance of the coin followed the massive public reaction to her passing and the lasting influence she had as a humanitarian, philanthropist, and cultural icon. Unlike standard commemorative coins that celebrate royal jubilees or state occasions, the Princess Diana £5 coin was issued purely as a remembrance, making it unique among British royal coinage. It was made available in various formats, but the sterling silver proof version, cataloged as KM#997, remains among the most coveted due to its limited mintage, superb craftsmanship, and the emotional resonance of its subject matter.
The obverse of the coin features the familiar portrait of Queen Elizabeth II, designed by Ian Rank-Broadley, which was introduced to British coinage in 1998. The Queen is depicted in right-facing profile, wearing the Girls of Great Britain and Ireland tiara. The inscriptions "ELIZABETH II," "DEI GRA REGINA FID DEF" (By the Grace of God, Queen, Defender of the Faith), and "FIVE POUNDS" encircle the effigy. On a proof specimen, the Queen’s portrait is rendered with exceptional clarity, set against deeply mirrored fields that provide dramatic contrast, a hallmark of the proof striking method. The sharpness of the details and the flawless surfaces in the proof version underscore the Royal Mint’s commitment to producing coins of outstanding beauty and technical excellence.
The reverse of the 1999 Princess Diana £5 coin, designed by David Cornell, presents a dignified and graceful portrait of Diana, Princess of Wales. She is shown in profile, facing left, wearing a pearl tiara and earrings, with an elegant hairstyle that captures her poised and stylish image. Around the portrait is the simple inscription “IN MEMORY OF DIANA PRINCESS OF WALES” and the dual dates “1961-1997.” The design exudes both reverence and warmth, reflecting Diana’s status as a beloved public figure and her lasting humanitarian legacy. On a proof coin, the delicate rendering of her features and the intricate detail of the jewelry are enhanced by the frosted devices and the deeply mirrored background, resulting in an image of stunning beauty and sensitivity.
The 1999 Princess Diana £5 silver proof coin was struck in sterling silver (.925 fine) and has a diameter of 38.61 millimeters and a weight of 28.28 grams. These dimensions mirror the standard specifications for modern British crown-sized coins, offering a substantial and satisfying presence in hand. The proof striking process involves multiple strikes with specially polished dies on carefully prepared planchets, creating the signature frosted design elements and mirrored fields that collectors highly prize. The high-quality craftsmanship of the Royal Mint ensures that each proof coin is a miniature work of art, intended to be cherished and preserved for future generations as a lasting tribute to Diana’s memory.
The mintage of the 1999 silver proof Princess Diana £5 coin was relatively limited compared to standard circulation coins. While the Royal Mint produced various versions of the Diana £5 coin (including uncirculated copper-nickel issues), the sterling silver proof mintage was capped to appeal to the more exclusive collector market. Official figures suggest that fewer than 100,000 proof silver coins were issued, making them desirable among both royal memorabilia collectors and numismatists specializing in modern commemorative issues. Their scarcity, combined with the universal appeal of the subject, ensures continued demand on the secondary market and underscores the coin’s importance as a key modern commemorative issue.
In terms of condition, examples of the Great Britain 5 Pounds 1999 Princess Diana KM#997 in proof form typically exhibit exceptional quality. Coins graded by professional services or kept in their original mint packaging will show flawless or near-flawless surfaces, with no signs of handling, marks, or hazing. The frosted portrait of Diana will contrast dramatically against the flawless mirrored fields, enhancing the three-dimensional effect of the artwork. Coins that have been well-preserved retain their full original luster and sharp details, with the fine lines of the tiara and hair remaining crisply defined. Any minor imperfections would be limited to those invisible to the naked eye, preserving the coin’s overall stunning visual appeal and collectible value.
The emotional impact of the 1999 Princess Diana £5 silver proof coin extends beyond its artistic merit and precious metal content. Diana’s humanitarian work—championing causes such as AIDS awareness, landmine removal, and the fight against homelessness—endeared her to millions around the world. Her compassion, accessibility, and ability to connect with people from all walks of life elevated her to a status that transcended royalty. The memorial coin serves as a lasting testament to her legacy, allowing admirers and collectors to honor her life and contributions through a tangible and enduring medium. Owning the coin is not merely acquiring a piece of numismatic art, but participating in the collective memory of one of the 20th century’s most beloved figures.
The Princess Diana silver £5 coin also holds a special place in the broader tradition of British commemorative coinage. Whereas most issues celebrate monarchs, historical events, or institutional anniversaries, the Diana coin was deeply personal and emotional. Its simple, unadorned inscription and elegant portrait reflect a tone of remembrance rather than celebration, marking it as a distinct and heartfelt entry in the lineage of British crowns. The restraint and dignity of the design contribute to its timelessness, ensuring that it remains as relevant and moving today as it was at the time of its release over two decades ago.
The Great Britain 5 Pounds 1999 KM#997 PF silver Princess Diana coin remains one of the most touching and artistically successful tributes in modern British coinage. With its stunning proof finish, limited mintage, and evocative design, it captures the grace and compassion of Diana, Princess of Wales, in a manner that continues to resonate with collectors and admirers around the globe. Whether acquired for its numismatic value, its historical significance, or its emotional meaning, the 1999 Princess Diana £5 silver proof coin endures as a cherished keepsake, honoring a life that left an indelible mark on the world.