The Revolutionary Lightning II Captured on a Grand Piedfort Coin

Continuing its reputation for pioneering aviation, the Royal Air Force’s fifth generation multirole combat plane is set to revolutionise RAF fighting capability. The coin featuring the cutting-edge Lightning II completes our five-coin RAF centenary series, bringing focus to present day and the inspiring future of aviation.

Just as The Royal Mint has a history of honouring the Armed Forces, the piedfort coin itself has long commemorated the most important events and anniversaries for the nation. This piedfort edition of the £2 coin is a substantial tribute to modern aviation, with a diameter of more than 28mm and weighing 24 grammes of sterling silver.

The coin’s reverse design was unusually created by two artists, brothers Richard and Neil Talbot, who have collaborated to capture the Lightning II speeding through the sky on the coin. Every detail of the design has been finished to Proof standard and the accompanying booklet where you can read insights on the Lightning II, including a quote from a test pilot for the aircraft.