George IV was King of the United Kingdom and other realms from 1820 until 1830. Here, we will be exploring the life and reign of George IV.
The Rarity of Double Portraits on Coinage
The double portrait is a truly remarkable sight on coinage. It is a design that is rarely ever seen, making it all the more special when it does make an appearance.
This design is used to celebrate momentous royal occasions such as weddings and anniversaries, and is typically reserved for commemorative coins.
Double Portraits on Coinage
The use of a double portrait on coins acts as a symbol of love, unity, and the strength of a royal couple. One of the most iconic examples of this design is the double portrait of Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Philip on their Golden and Diamond Wedding Anniversary coins in 1997 and 2007. These coins are a testament to the remarkable milestones they reached together.
The year 2017 marked the platinum wedding anniversary of Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Philip. This is the first time in British history a monarch has celebrated this milestone. Therefore, a sovereign series was released exclusively to Hattons of London; The 2017 Double Portrait Wedding Anniversary Gold Sovereign Range. This is the first time double portraits have appeared on the gold sovereign, and the first time in the 200 years that a royal consort has had their portrait on a gold sovereign. Shop the range below.
Another notable example of a double portrait on coinage is that of Prince William and Catherine Middleton for their wedding in 2011. These commemorative coins captured the excitement and joy surrounding their union, showcasing their love and commitment to one another. The double portrait design serves as a reminder of the significance of their marriage, not just for them personally, but for the entire nation.
Last year, the double portrait featured on a spectacular series of gold sovereigns, capturing the essence of King Charles III and Queen Camilla during their coronation. This unique design is a true testament to their unity and the shared responsibilities they hold as the monarchs of Great Britain. It symbolised their commitment to each other and their dedication to their duties.
The 2023 King Charles III Coronation Double Portrait Gold Sovereign Range was released to celebrate the coronation of King Charles III, where his wife and new Queen, Camilla, was by his side. Never before has a reigning king appeared with his queen.
History of the Double Portrait
To truly appreciate the rarity of the double portrait on coinage, we must delve even further back in time. It is during the reign of William and Mary in the late 1600s that we find some of the earliest examples of these double portrait coins. These coins were intended to commemorate their joint rule and showcase their unity as monarchs. The double portrait design was a way to honour their partnership and emphasise their shared power.
From Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Philip to Prince William and Catherine Middleton, double portrait coins capture the essence of their relationships and commemorate significant moments in their lives.
The Royal Family Christmas Traditions
Since 1988, the Royal Family have traditionally spent Christmas and New Year at Sandringham House, Norfolk.
Just like any typical family, the royals have certain festive traditions which they follow each year, and we have all that you need to know about the facts and traditions of the Royal Family at Christmas time…
The History of the Prince and Princess of Wales Titles
In September 2022, following the sad passing of Queen Elizabeth II, Prince William and Catherine Middleton were named as the new Prince and Princess of Wales during King Charles III’s first address to the nation.
These titles have been used within the Royal Family for centuries, but many of us still question where this tradition came from. Here, we have everything there is to know about the history of the Prince and Princess of Wales…
Timeline of Prince William and Kate Middleton’s Relationship
Public perception in the UK is generally that Prince William and Kate Middleton are the most beloved royal couple. Having met as students at the University of St Andrews, the couple built a solid friendship before it blossomed into a romantic relationship.
Here, we have for you a timeline of their relationship milestones…
The Prince and Princess of Wales Gold Sovereign Range
Along with the accession of Charles as our new king last year, his son, William, became the new Prince of Wales. With characteristic sensitivity, he accepted the role without a formal investiture ceremony, mindful of the fact that for many in Wales the title remains contentious. He has spoken of it as a great honour, pledging to serve Wales with humility and great respect for its people.
In our modern era, the title ‘Prince of Wales’ is no longer a title of authority but one of ceremony, and although there was no formal investiture event, the fact that William is now the 23rd Prince of Wales deserves to be recognised. His wife Catherine, or ‘Kate’ as she is often known, is now the Princess of Wales, the first to use that title since William’s mother, Diana, Princess of Wales.
To celebrate the new Prince & Princess of Wales, for the first time in over 200 years of gold sovereign history, coins have been minted from 22 carat gold that includes a trace amount of rare Welsh gold in the mixture. Gold sourced from the mines in Wales is highly prized, and very rare, and it has a long and proud association with the Royal Family.
Introducing the 2023 Prince and Princess of Wales Gold Sovereign Range…
