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 Ultimate 2023 Christmas Gift Guide

The Ultimate 2023 Christmas Gift Guide

The festive season is upon us, and if you are looking for the perfect Christmas present to gift to the numismatist in your life, then you have come to the right place!

Whether they are a lover of all things military themed, or are big fans of the Royal Family, we have available the most incredible gold sovereigns and coin sets for you to choose from. With price ranges to suit all budgets, here is the ultimate 2023 Christmas gift guide!

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Spotlight Products

Spotlight Products

Something new and exciting has landed on our website; the Spotlight Products page!

This is a selection of higher denomination, sought-after and extremely low mintage issues that are available to you via our Dedicated Account Manager service. All of the products featured on this page are extremely limited in availability, and so we urge you to act quickly to avoid disappointment!

Here is more information on these fantastic issues…

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The Milestones of Queen Elizabeth II

Our longest reigning monarch, Queen Elizabeth II, was a beacon of strength, stability, honour and grace, managing her role as both monarch and mother in such a way that her legacy will continue to live on.

Her incredible reign of over 70 years is the longest of any British monarch, as well as the longest reign in the history of any female head of state. Thus, throughout her time as monarch she marked a variety of milestones and achievements. Here are some of the key milestones during Queen Elizabeth II’s reign…

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