* These images show the type of coin you will receive, not the exact item
This exceptional two-coin silver proof set marks the historic introduction of the bi-metallic £2 coin to circulation. Struck in .925 sterling silver to the highest proof standard, both coins in this dual-dated set feature the iconic reverse design by Bruce Rushin, symbolising the advancement of human knowledge with concentric rings representing technological progress through the ages. The 1997 coin was issued only in sets and never released into circulation, making it especially sought after. The 1998 coin represents the first year of general circulation for the new Two Pound. Both coins bear the classic 'Standing on the Shoulders of Giants' edge inscription: a tribute to scientific achievement, quoting Sir Isaac Newton. Housed in the original Royal Mint presentation case with a certificate of authenticity, this pre-owned two-coin set offers collectors a beautifully struck and historically significant addition to any modern British coin collection.
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The first circulating £2 coins were released in the summer of 1998, following purely commemorative releases the previous year. These coins are bimetallic as a security feature, unlike earlier single-metal Two Pound coins minted for collectors between 1986 and 1996.
This set features two of the earliest bi-metallic UK Two Pound coins, including:
The 1997 coin features Raphael Maklouf's portrait of Queen Elizabeth II, while the 1998 coin shows Ian Rank-Broadley's updated effigy, introduced in that year.
Both coins in this set are minted in 12.00 grams of .925 sterling silver, with a proof finish and selective gold-plated detail to the edge. Like a standard circulating Two Pound, these commemorative issues measure 28.40 millimetres in diameter.
A limited number of these Royal Mint sets were authorised for global release in 1998, and it can be difficult to find pre-owned examples like ours in good condition. We will supply your Two Pound set in the original case with the certificate of authenticity enclosed.
