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2005 Samuel Johnson's Dictionary Fifty Pence Gold Proof Coin

UKSJGP 2005 Samuel Johnson's Dictionary Fifty Pence Gold Proof Coin Boxed

Buy a 2005 Samuel Johnson's Dictionary Fifty Pence Gold Proof Coin

from
£750.00
(VAT Exempt)
This 2005 gold proof Fifty Pence coin from The Royal Mint celebrates 250 years since the publication of Samuel Johnson's 'Dictionary of the English Language'. Published in April 1755, Johnson's dictionary wasn't the first but was commissioned by a group of London booksellers who were dissatisfied with the dictionaries of the time. Johnson took seven years to single-handedly complete his initial 42,773 word dictionary. A monumental achievement, it remained the most popular English dictionary until the publication of the Oxford English Dictionary more than 150 years later and is known today for its enduring influence on the English language. This coin, designed by Tom Phillips, features a graphic textual design, providing a dictionary definition of the word 'Fifty Pence' including etymology, pronunciation and word class. It's an appropriate tribute to Johnson's dictionary. Phillips' reverse is paired with Ian Rank-Broadley's fourth definitive portrait of Queen Elizabeth II which is used on the obverse of this UK 50p coin. This edition is struck in 15.50 grams of 22 carat crown gold, containing a fine gold weight of 0.4568 troy ounces. It's one of just 584 issued by The Royal Mint in this presentation, and it's struck to a high-quality proof finish using polished dies. You'll receive your gold proof Samuel Johnson Fifty Pence in its original Royal Mint box with a certificate of authenticity, alongside an information booklet.
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Obverse

Fourth UK coinage portrait of Queen Elizabeth II, designed by Ian Rank-Broadley. Legend: 'ELIZABETH · II · D · G REG · F · D · 2005'.

Reverse

Designed by Tom Phillips. He places the word 'FIFTY PENCE' at the centre, with the dictionary definition, etymology and pronunciation. Text: 'JOHNSON'S DICTIONARY 1755'.

Specification

Proof finish. Legal tender value: 50p / Fifty Pence. Weight: 15.50 grams. Diameter: 27.30 millimetres. Alloy: 22 carat gold (0.917 fine).

Presentation

Offered in the original presentation box from The Royal Mint. Includes certificate of authenticity and information booklet.

 

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