August 24, 2017 – In tribute to Princess Diana whose life tragically came to an end on 31st August 1997, Pobjoy Mint introduces a new coin on behalf of Ascension Island to commemorate the 20th Anniversary of her Death.
Ascension Island / 1 Crown / Silver .999 and Mother of Pearl / 33g / 38,6mm / Mintage: 2017.
Roses and a mother of pearl inlay for Diana
The centre of the reverse features a beautiful Diana Rose, a rose named after Diana as she was known as England’s Rose. Pobjoy Mint has achieved this unique finish by striking an indent into the coin and fixing an intricately carved piece of mother of pearl in the shape of the rose into the cavity. The colour of the Mother of pearl is unique to each coin and features a mixture of different colours and patterns. The obverse features the Pobjoy Mint Exclusive Effigy of Queen Elizabeth II in high detail.
The Issue limit of this piece has been set at 2,017 in 999. Fine Silver. The Mint will also produce a Virenium edition which has a light gold colour and is limited to 10,000.
Some special Ultra-High Relief coins are produced as well. A 1oz. UHR 999. Fine Silver Piedfort (total weight 2oz) with an issue limit of 650 and a 1/2 oz. UHR Fine 999. Gold Piedfort (total weight 1oz.).
Diana, Princess of Wales. Photo: Nick Parfjonov / Wikipedia.
The Failed Fairy Tale
The fairy tale romance of Lady Diana Spencer and Prince Charles raised worldwide interest in Britain’s Royal Family. On 29th July 1981 millions crowded the London streets to catch a glimpse of the couple before they exchanged vows at St Paul’s Cathedral. In the early years of her marriage Diana appeared a shy, private member of the British aristocracy, however her grace and nobility won the hearts of the nation and she soon blossomed into the people’s princess. Throwing herself into her royal duties exhibiting a warmth and concern for all those causes she supported, Diana became the most photographed member of the Royal Family.
Such public devotion led millions of mourners to line the route of her funeral procession from Kensington Palace to Westminster Abbey on 31st August 1997. Most wept or watched in silence as the gun carriage passed carrying Diana’s coffin, but some applauded quietly as a sign of appreciation for their much loved princess.
More details about these and other coins can be found at the website of British Pobjoy Mint.
A wealth of information on Diana, Princess of Wales, is gathered at the official website of the Royal Family.
And pictures, interviews, as well as footages of her funeral, are collected on BBC Online Network.