-
Inventory:
1 In Stock
- Product ID: 55312
Checkout
The Great Britain 50 Pence Piedfort 1994 P#17 D-Day silver coin is a significant numismatic tribute to one of the most pivotal moments of World War II. Issued by The Royal Mint to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the D-Day landings, this piedfort edition is a double-thickness proof coin struck in sterling silver. Encased in its original presentation box, this coin stands as a remarkable piece of history, celebrating the courage and sacrifice of those who participated in the largest amphibious invasion in military history.
The D-Day landings, which took place on June 6, 1944, marked the beginning of the Allied liberation of Western Europe from Nazi occupation. Codenamed Operation Overlord, the invasion involved over 156,000 Allied troops landing on the beaches of Normandy, France. The event was a turning point in World War II, leading to the eventual defeat of Nazi Germany. To honor this momentous occasion, The Royal Mint issued a special commemorative 50 pence coin in 1994, recognizing the bravery of those who fought and the strategic importance of the operation.
The obverse of the 1994 D-Day 50 Pence Silver Piedfort coin features the third definitive portrait of Queen Elizabeth II, designed by Raphael Maklouf. Introduced in 1985, this effigy presents a regal and detailed depiction of the Queen, wearing the George IV State Diadem. The surrounding inscription reads "ELIZABETH II • D • G • REG • F • D • 1994," which translates to "Elizabeth II, by the Grace of God, Queen, Defender of the Faith." Maklouf’s portrait was widely used on British coinage until 1997 and is known for its elegant and well-defined representation of the monarch.
The reverse of the coin, designed by sculptor John Mills, depicts an evocative scene of Allied troops storming the beaches of Normandy. The design captures the moment of the amphibious assault, with soldiers advancing toward the enemy-occupied shoreline under the cover of naval gunfire. Above the scene, the inscription reads "50 PENCE," while the date "6 JUNE 1944" is prominently displayed, reinforcing the historical significance of the event. The design conveys a sense of movement, urgency, and determination, reflecting the bravery and sacrifice of those who took part in the invasion.
The artistic composition of the reverse design is particularly striking, as it effectively conveys the tension and heroism of the D-Day landings. The combination of fine detailing, dynamic imagery, and historical accuracy makes this coin a fitting tribute to the soldiers, sailors, and airmen who played a role in the success of Operation Overlord. The choice of a 50 pence denomination for this commemorative issue ensured that the coin would be widely recognized and appreciated by collectors and the public alike.
The 1994 D-Day 50 Pence Silver Piedfort coin was struck in sterling silver (.925 fine silver) and features a proof finish. Proof coins are produced using highly polished dies and specially prepared planchets, resulting in a flawless finish with exceptional detail. The piedfort edition of this coin is double the thickness of the standard silver proof version, making it a substantial and impressive piece. The increased weight and thickness of the piedfort format add to its appeal, giving it a more significant presence in any collection.
The mintage of the 1994 D-Day 50 Pence Silver Piedfort coin was intentionally limited, making it a rare and highly desirable piece. Piedfort coins have a long tradition in numismatics, originally struck for presentation purposes and as collector’s items rather than for circulation. The limited production of piedfort coins enhances their exclusivity, ensuring their continued desirability among numismatists and investors alike. The rarity of this coin further adds to its appeal, particularly for those seeking to commemorate the historical legacy of D-Day.
The condition of this particular 1994 D-Day 50 Pence Silver Piedfort coin is outstanding, as it has been carefully preserved in its original presentation box from The Royal Mint. The protective case ensures that the coin remains in pristine condition, preventing exposure to environmental factors such as tarnishing or scratches. The proof surfaces retain their original brilliance, with a sharp contrast between the frosted relief and the mirror-like background. The inclusion of the original packaging and certificate of authenticity adds further value and appeal to the coin.
The proof condition of this coin ensures that it exhibits precise strikes, clean lettering, and a flawless finish. The frosted relief of the D-Day scene contrasts beautifully against the highly polished fields, making the intricate details of the engraving stand out. As a proof piedfort coin, it was struck multiple times using specially prepared dies, ensuring superior quality and a refined appearance. The exceptional craftsmanship ensures that this coin remains one of the most visually impressive and collectible issues in the 50 pence silver piedfort series.
The significance of this coin extends beyond its numismatic value, as it serves as a tribute to the sacrifices made by the Allied forces during World War II. The depiction of the D-Day landings highlights the courage, resilience, and determination of those who fought for the liberation of Europe. The choice to feature this historic event on a commemorative 50 pence coin underscores its importance in world history and ensures that the memory of D-Day remains alive for future generations.
The presentation of the coin in its original Royal Mint packaging ensures that it remains well-protected and suitable for display. The accompanying certificate of authenticity verifies the coin’s specifications, weight, and limited mintage, reinforcing its status as an officially issued numismatic piece. The elegant display case adds to the coin’s prestige, making it an excellent addition to any collection or investment portfolio.
As an investment, the 1994 D-Day 50 Pence Silver Piedfort coin is an excellent choice due to its silver content, limited mintage, and proof quality. Unlike standard bullion coins, proof silver coins appreciate in value due to their superior craftsmanship, rarity, and strong demand among collectors. The historical and cultural significance of the D-Day theme further enhances its long-term desirability among numismatists and investors alike.
The Royal Mint’s longstanding reputation for excellence ensures that each silver proof piedfort coin is struck to the highest standards, making them highly sought after by collectors. The 1994 D-Day 50 Pence Silver Piedfort coin exemplifies the best of British numismatic artistry, combining historical significance with impeccable craftsmanship. Its inclusion in a collection of World War II commemorative coins further enhances its value, making it a key piece for those assembling a comprehensive British coin collection.
The 1994 D-Day 50 Pence Silver Piedfort coin is a timeless tribute to one of the most important events of the 20th century. With its elegant design, fine silver composition, and limited mintage, it stands as an exceptional example of modern British numismatics. Whether acquired as a collector’s item, an investment, or a tribute to the heroes of World War II, this coin represents a celebration of history, bravery, and remembrance. Its beauty, craftsmanship, and historical depth make it a standout piece in the realm of commemorative silver coinage.