Product Information

The new commemorative crown, produced in honour of the 60th birthday of His Royal Highness The Prince of Wales, has been struck in cupro-nickel to Brilliant Uncirculated standard. Each £5 coin, with its magnificent portrait of Prince Charles on the reverse and the Queen's effigy on the obverse, both by Ian Rank-Broadley FRBS, is presented in a specially designed folder reflecting the life and work of the Prince.

Background & History

Born at Buckingham Palace on 14 November 1948 Prince Charles Philip Arthur George was the first son of Princess Elizabeth and The Duke of Edinburgh. The Queen declared her eldest son and heir apparent Prince of Wales in 1958 and in 1969 his Investiture took place at Caernarfon Castle. In 2008 His Royal Highness will be celebrating his 60th birthday and in his honour the Royal Mint has struck a special commemorative crown.

The beautifully composed portrait of Prince Charles is the work of esteemed artist Ian Rank-Broadley FRBS whose effigy of the Queen has been in use on British coins since 1998. Following a number of private sittings and working from specially commissioned photographs the artist was able to present the final result that has been approved by both Prince Charles and the Queen. The inscription surrounding the portrait includes the words ICH DIEN, which means 'I serve', and is taken from the Badge of the Prince of Wales. The celebratory year dates of 1948 and 2008 also appear, together with his royal title THE PRINCE OF WALES.