2015 Magna Carta 800th Anniversary Two Pound Brilliant Uncirculated Coin In Folder

This BU 2015 Magna Carta £2 coin was issued by the Royal Mint to commemorate 800 years since the creation of one of the most important documents in history, the Magna Carta Libertatum. Originally written mediaeval Latin, it translates as ‘Great Charter of Freedoms’ and was first sealed under oath by King John in 1215. The King was deeply unpopular due to several abuses of power, and 25 barons rebelled against the King’s authority and sought to rein in the powers of the crown. Although the 1215 Magna Carta was not subsequently stood over by the King or the rebel barons, it formed the foundation of individual liberty and restrictions on arbitrary state power. Astonishingly, four clauses in the 1215 Magna Carta are still codified in English law today. To signify this momentous occasion in history, experienced engraver John Bergdahl imagines King John with a quill in his right hand and a charter in his left hand on the reverse. On either side of the King is an archbishop and a baron. Bergdahl has taken inspiration from contemporary mediaeval imagery for this UK coin design, which is clearly seen in the letter font and the engraving style. However, the King never signed the charter but instead applied his own seal to it. On the obverse side of the coin is Ian Rank-Broadley's portrait of Queen Elizabeth II; this is the fourth definitive effigy of Her Majesty. This Two Pound coin weighs 12.00 grams, has a diameter of 28.40 millimetres and is issued in the original limited edition packaging.