ROYAL TRADITION required that each sovereign’s profile alternate from reign to reign. King Edward VIII’s profile was never minted as he was never crowned. Charles’ profile will be left, and William’s profile will be right facing. Very interesting to see all the profiles together.
Thomas Moore email: TMooreSr@me.com Telephone: 801.791.9918
Britannia first appeared on the farthing coin in 1672, and she was modeled on the Duchess of Richmond who was so beautiful that Charles II clambered over her garden wall to get to her, only to be rebuffed. Britannia now appears on the 50 pence coin.
The Chief cashier’s signature first appeared on Bank of England banknotes in 1870 and the monarch’s portrait did not appear until 1960. The present Queen is therefore the first monarch to appear on Bank of England banknotes. In 2007 the economist Adam Smith became the first Scotsman to appear on a Bank of England banknote, replacing Edward Elgar on the 20 pound note.
The pound sign developed from the letter “L”– the fist letter of the Latin word “libra” meaning pound. In pre-decimal coinage a penny was represented by the “d” which came from denarius, the equivalent Roman coin.
Thomas Moore email: TMooreSr@me.com Telephone: 801.791.9918
Collecting British history through coins can be accomplished from all over the world. There are no public tours of the Royal Mint, but the exquisite coins are available on their website. Investing in coins from the mint is an excellent way to remember history while saving money. The British Royal Mint does a fantastic job with their commemorative coins which are circulated for royal occasions. The Royal Wedding, The Olympics, and Prince Philip’s 90th–wonderful.
When you are in London, visit the museum at the Bank of England. It will dazzle your eyes.
Thomas Moore email: TMooreSr@me.com Telephone: 801.791.9918
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