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The Great Britain Proof Set of 2003 is a beautifully produced and culturally meaningful collection from the Royal Mint, reflecting both the everyday circulating coinage of the United Kingdom and a major royal milestone. Issued in proof quality, this set showcases the outstanding craftsmanship of the Royal Mint, with frosted devices and mirrored fields that elevate even familiar denominations into miniature works of art. The 2003 set is especially valued by collectors for including a commemorative £5 crown marking the 50th anniversary of the coronation of Queen Elizabeth II, making it both a numismatic and historical tribute.
The 2003 proof set contains ten coins: the bi-metallic £2, £1, commemorative £5 crown, standard 50 pence, 20 pence, 10 pence, 5 pence, 2 pence, and 1 penny, as well as a commemorative 50 pence celebrating the centenary of the Women’s Social and Political Union, which spearheaded the women’s suffrage movement in Britain. The combination of both standard and commemorative coins makes this set particularly attractive, as it captures the spirit of both national heritage and social progress.
The obverse of each coin features the portrait of Queen Elizabeth II by Ian Rank-Broadley, introduced in 1998. This realistic depiction, without crown, shows the Queen facing right, wearing a pearl necklace and earrings, surrounded by the inscription “ELIZABETH II D·G·REG·F·D” along with the denomination or year. In proof condition, the portrait is deeply frosted against brilliant, mirror-like backgrounds, demonstrating the Royal Mint’s mastery of detail and finish.
The reverse designs of the 2003 set are full of symbolism and artistry:
All coins are struck in their standard 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 the proof finish transforms these everyday materials into premium-quality pieces. The Royal Mint’s multi-strike process on polished blanks using specialized dies results in crisp, sharp details and a striking cameo contrast between the reliefs and fields.
The 2003 proof set was packaged in a handsome Royal Mint presentation case with an acrylic display holder, housed in an outer box and accompanied by a certificate of authenticity and an informative booklet. These materials explain the historical background, designer credits, and technical specifications of the coins, enhancing the set’s educational and collector value. Sets that remain complete with all original packaging and documentation are especially prized on the secondary market.
The mintage of the 2003 proof set was limited, adding scarcity and collector appeal. The inclusion of both the coronation anniversary £5 and the suffragette commemorative 50p makes the set particularly desirable for those interested in royal milestones and social history. For collectors completing a run of Royal Mint proof sets, the 2003 edition is indispensable for its cultural relevance and artistic range.
Condition-wise, proof sets from this period are expected to retain flawless or near-flawless surfaces if stored properly. Coins should exhibit brilliant mirrored backgrounds, sharp frosted reliefs, and no visible handling marks, haze, or toning. When graded by professional services, these sets often receive high designations such as PF68 or PF69, reflecting the Royal Mint’s consistently high production standards and the care taken by collectors to preserve them.
This set appeals to a wide range of collectors, from those interested in modern British proof sets and royal commemoratives to enthusiasts of women’s history and suffrage-related memorabilia. It also makes a meaningful gift or display item, commemorating two transformative events in British national life—the coronation of one of the world’s longest-reigning monarchs and the centennial of a movement that helped reshape the country’s political landscape.
In summary, the Great Britain 2003 Proof Set is a beautifully crafted, historically rich collection that reflects both Britain’s royal heritage and its social progress. With its exceptional proof finish, limited mintage, and a compelling mix of standard and commemorative designs, it remains a standout addition to any modern British or international numismatic collection, offering both artistic appeal and enduring historical significance.