Queen Elizabeth II 1952-2022

Queen Elizabeth II's reign, which began in 1952 and extended until 2022, marked a fascinating era in the history of British coinage. The coin designs during her reign showcased several significant milestones and transitions. In 1953, the first coins featuring the Queen's effigy were introduced, designed by Mary Gillick. Subsequently, the coins saw various portrait changes, reflecting different stages of the Queen's life. Notably, in 1971, the UK switched to a decimal currency system, replacing the pounds, shillings, and pence with the decimal pound and new denominations like the 50p, 20p, and 10p coins. The introduction of the smaller 5p and 10p coins in 1990 featured a new "Machin" portrait of the Queen by Arnold Machin. In 1983, the £1 coin was introduced, followed by the bi-metallic £2 coin in 1997. Throughout her reign, commemorative coins were issued to celebrate various events, making numismatic history. Queen Elizabeth II's coinage showcases both tradition and innovation, reflecting the evolving monetary landscape and the enduring legacy of the longest-reigning British monarch.