Struck to celebrate the coronation of Edward VII on 9th August 1902 – postponed from 26th June due to the King's appendicitis – this remarkable 11-piece short gold and silver matt proof set unites the full spectrum of circulating denominations in a finish unique to this coronation year. With a mintage of just 7,057 sets, over 1,000 fewer than the full long gold version, it represents the only occasion on which the Royal Mint has produced a matt finish proof set for a coronation, offering numismatists a rare glimpse into Edwardian precision craftsmanship.

The set comprises the gold Sovereign and Half Sovereign alongside the silver Crown, Halfcrown, Florin, Shilling, Sixpence and four-piece Maundy set, each bearing De Saulles' bare head portrait of Edward VII facing right on the obverse. The Latin legend EDWARDVS VII DEI GRA: BRITT: OMN: REX FID: DEF: IND: IMP: translates as "Edward the Seventh, by the grace of God, King of all the Britains, Defender of the Faith, Emperor of India", encircling the monarch's unadorned profile with its subtle modelling of hair and features, brought into sharp relief by the distinctive matt surface.

The reverses faithfully reproduce the currency types of the era: Pistrucci's iconic St George and the dragon on the gold sovereigns, heraldic shields and national emblems across the silver pieces, down to the meticulously struck Maundy money with its crisp edges and delicate lettering. Collectors will appreciate the set's completeness as a type survey, the progression from large gold to tiny silver revealing subtle variations in die work and finish, while the low mintage and original casing enhance its status as a key Edwardian proof issue.

For those building coronation proof collections or exploring the brief Edwardian numismatic interlude, this 1902 short gold matt finish set provides an evocative and comprehensive record of a pivotal royal moment, its velvety surfaces and historical context making it a cornerstone piece in any cabinet of British proof coinage.