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The Great Britain Proof Set of 2002 is a beautifully assembled and historically meaningful collection from the Royal Mint, issued to celebrate both Britain’s circulating coinage and a landmark royal occasion: the Golden Jubilee of Queen Elizabeth II. As the nation marked the Queen’s 50th anniversary on the throne, the 2002 proof set captured this milestone with superbly crafted coins, including a special commemorative £5 crown and the last of the £1 “nations of the UK” series. Struck in brilliant proof quality, this set remains a collector favorite for its combination of elegance, national significance, and numismatic artistry.
The 2002 proof set contains ten coins: the bi-metallic £2, £1, commemorative £5 crown, standard 50 pence, 20 pence, 10 pence, 5 pence, 2 pence, 1 penny, and a commemorative 50 pence celebrating the Commonwealth Games. This diverse combination of denominations and designs makes it one of the most visually engaging and culturally rich British proof sets of the modern era.
The obverse of each coin features the fourth definitive effigy of Queen Elizabeth II, designed by Ian Rank-Broadley and introduced in 1998. This realistic, crownless portrait of the Queen faces right, wearing a pearl necklace and earrings, surrounded by the legend “ELIZABETH II D·G·REG·F·D” and the denomination or year. In proof quality, the Queen’s portrait appears with crisp, frosted detail and mirrored fields, showcasing the Royal Mint’s precision craftsmanship.
The reverse designs in the 2002 set include several highlights:
All coins are struck in their usual circulating metals—bi-metallic for the £2, nickel-brass for the £1, cupronickel for the silver-colored denominations, and copper-plated steel or bronze for the smaller coins—but their proof quality elevates them dramatically. Using polished dies and planchets, the Royal Mint achieves stunning mirror fields and frosted devices, creating a beautiful contrast that enhances even the most familiar designs.
The 2002 proof set was presented in a premium Royal Mint acrylic display case, housed in a stylish outer box and accompanied by a detailed booklet or certificate of authenticity. This documentation includes specifications, historical context, and designer credits, making it both an educational and collectible package. Collectors especially value sets that remain intact with their original packaging and materials, as these enhance the set’s market desirability and historical integrity.
The mintage of the 2002 proof set was limited, adding scarcity and collectibility to its appeal. The inclusion of the Golden Jubilee £5 crown gives the set special historical significance, as it commemorates only the second time in British history that a monarch reached the 50-year milestone on the throne. Additionally, the Commonwealth Games 50p adds a dynamic sporting element, broadening the thematic appeal of the set.
Condition-wise, proof sets from this period are expected to exhibit flawless or near-flawless surfaces, with deeply mirrored fields and sharp frost on the raised devices. Coins that have remained sealed in their original cases typically show no haze, toning, or handling marks. Sets submitted for third-party grading frequently achieve high grades, such as PF68 or PF69, reflecting both the Royal Mint’s rigorous quality control and collectors’ care in preservation.
This proof set has wide appeal, attracting collectors interested in royal commemoratives, modern British coinage, sporting issues, or full-year date runs of Royal Mint proof sets. It is also a meaningful gift for those interested in British history, as it celebrates the Queen’s half-century reign, an event of enduring cultural and historical significance.
In conclusion, the Great Britain 2002 Proof Set is a beautifully crafted, historically rich collection that honors the Golden Jubilee of Queen Elizabeth II and Britain’s national and sporting milestones. With its luxurious presentation, exceptional proof finish, and a mix of commemorative and standard designs, it remains one of the most memorable and collectible Royal Mint sets of the early 21st century. Whether added to a full series, given as a gift, or displayed as a tribute to a landmark year, it offers timeless value and significance in the world of modern numismatics.