-
Inventory:
1 In Stock
- Product ID: 55952
The Great Britain Executive Proof Set 2002 is a premium numismatic collection issued by the Royal Mint to commemorate the coinage of the United Kingdom in that calendar year, presented in an enhanced and luxurious format known as the “Executive” edition. Unlike the standard proof set, the Executive Proof Set is housed in a specially designed, high-quality presentation case, aimed at collectors who appreciate both the technical excellence of proof coinage and the aesthetic value of elite packaging. The 2002 set holds particular historical and numismatic interest as it marks the Golden Jubilee of Queen Elizabeth II, commemorating the 50th anniversary of her accession to the throne in 1952, and includes special celebratory elements reflecting this national milestone.
The set comprises ten coins: all eight standard UK circulating denominations for the year—1p, 2p, 5p, 10p, 20p, 50p, £1, and £2—plus two commemorative £5 crowns issued to honor the Queen’s Golden Jubilee and to celebrate the 150th anniversary of the publication of the first public version of the Great Exhibition in 1851. Each coin in the set is struck in brilliant proof quality from base metal, using specially polished dies and blanks to produce frosted reliefs and deeply mirrored fields. This meticulous process showcases the detail and craftsmanship behind every design, elevating these everyday coin types into elegant collectibles.
The reverse designs for the eight standard coins remain consistent with their circulating versions, showcasing iconic national symbols: the crowned portcullis (1p), the Prince of Wales's feathers (2p), the badge of Scotland (5p), a lion (10p), a Tudor rose (20p), Britannia (50p), the Celtic cross (newer £1 type), and the bimetallic £2 with concentric rings symbolizing technological progress and history. These designs are rendered with crisp clarity in proof format, allowing collectors to appreciate fine details that are often lost in circulation-worn examples. The obverse of each coin bears the fourth definitive effigy of Queen Elizabeth II, created by Ian Rank-Broadley, featuring Her Majesty facing right and wearing the Girls of Great Britain and Ireland tiara.
Of special significance in the 2002 Executive Proof Set are the two commemorative £5 coins. The first is the Golden Jubilee crown, designed by Ian Rank-Broadley, featuring a bold and regal equestrian portrait of Queen Elizabeth II on the reverse, modeled after earlier coronation-related coinage of the monarch. The design harkens back to tradition, evoking continuity and royal symbolism, while the inscription around the rim reads “ELIZABETH II DEI GRA REGINA FID DEF,” affirming her titles and divine right to rule. The obverse of this coin, like the others, features the standard Rank-Broadley portrait.
The second £5 crown commemorates the anniversary of the 1851 Great Exhibition and the opening of the Crystal Palace, a defining event in British innovation and cultural achievement. The reverse, designed by Mary Milner Dickens, depicts the spectacular architecture of the Crystal Palace building, with detailed engraving that brings the glass-paneled structure to life. This coin celebrates Britain’s contribution to global industrial progress and the spirit of creativity and invention that characterized the Victorian era.
The 2002 Executive Proof Set is housed in a dark blue leatherette case with a plush velvet interior, securely holding each coin in a recessed tray to protect and display them. The set includes a richly printed booklet containing historical context, design details, and information about the significance of the Golden Jubilee and other commemorations. A numbered certificate of authenticity is also included, confirming the limited production and quality of the set. The presentation case is further enclosed in a matching slipcover for added protection and elegance, distinguishing the Executive edition from the more common standard proof set packaging.
The mintage of the Executive Proof Set was limited, though exact figures vary slightly year to year. The scarcity of this edition, combined with its enhanced presentation and the presence of two historically important £5 crowns, makes the 2002 set especially attractive to collectors of modern British proof coinage, royal memorabilia, or Jubilee-themed issues. It has remained highly sought after in the years since its release, both for its numismatic value and its connection to a landmark event in the reign of Queen Elizabeth II.
Condition is paramount for the long-term value of any proof set. Coins should remain sealed and untouched, protected within their original capsules. The velvet tray, leatherette case, and printed materials should also be preserved in excellent condition. Executive sets in their complete original packaging, with certificates and no signs of tarnish or damage, maintain the highest appeal on the secondary market. Collectors may choose to grade individual coins from the set, especially the commemorative £5 pieces, which often receive PF69 or PF70 designations when properly handled and submitted to reputable grading services such as NGC or PCGS.
Visually, the 2002 Executive Proof Set is a model of elegance and reverence. The proof finish reveals a level of detail that makes each coin gleam under light, while the historic and thematic cohesion of the set provides context and depth. The royal symbolism of the Golden Jubilee crown, the architectural tribute of the Crystal Palace design, and the enduring designs of Britain’s circulating coinage combine to create a collection that is as historically rich as it is visually compelling.
Today, the Great Britain Executive Proof Set 2002 holds a distinguished place among modern UK coin sets. It reflects a pivotal year in the nation’s royal and cultural timeline, marking 50 years of Queen Elizabeth II’s reign with beauty, respect, and technical excellence. Whether acquired as part of a complete collection of Executive sets, appreciated for its artistry and symbolism, or treasured as a memento of the Golden Jubilee, the 2002 set remains one of the most meaningful and luxurious issues in the Royal Mint’s modern history.