Marking one of the proudest celebrations of the Victorian era, this 1897 Queen Victoria Diamond Jubilee Medal was struck at the Royal Mint to honour the sixtieth year of Her Majesty’s reign. Crafted in small silver, the medal reflects the rich artistry and symbolism that defined this landmark year in British history.

The obverse features a finely detailed portrait of the mature Queen Victoria, facing left and wearing a draped crown. The Latin inscription VICTORIA ANNVM REGNI SEXAGESIMVM FELICITER CLAVDIT XX IVN·MDCCCXCVII· translates as Victoria closes the sixtieth year of her reign in happiness, 20 June 1897. Designed by the renowned sculptor Thomas Brock and engraved by George William de Saulles, it captures the dignity and enduring strength of the monarch at the height of her reign.

The reverse presents a graceful young portrait of Victoria, also facing left, a revival of William Wyon’s celebrated “Young Head” effigy first used in the early years of her sovereignty. The Latin legend surrounding it, LONGITUDO DIERVM IN DEXTERA EIUS ET IN SINISTRA GLORIA (“Length of days is in her right hand, and in her left hand riches and honour”), beautifully complements the design, symbolising longevity and glory.

Struck at the Royal Mint’s Tower Hill site in London, this small silver medal remains in Almost Extremely Fine condition. Its surfaces retain much of their original brilliance, while the fine detailing of both portraits remains crisp and clear more than a century after it was issued.

Combining the work of two of the era’s greatest artists, William Wyon and Thomas Brock, this medal eloquently unites the youthful beginnings and mature triumphs of Britain’s longest-reigning nineteenth-century sovereign. For collectors of royal commemoratives and historical Mint issues, it represents a treasured piece of Britain’s medallic heritage.