Are you looking to add to your bullion and/or coin collection? If so, you may be wondering if the Great Britain Britannia would make a good addition. Read on to find out more about this unique bullion!

Who, or What, is Britannia?

The name Britannia comes from the Latin form of the word: Britannicae. This was the name the Romans used when referring to the British Isles. The figure of Britannia is meant to represent Great Britain in female form. This figure is associated with Queen Boudica, the Celtic Iceni Queen who led her people in rebellion against the Romans. Britannia is also based on the Roman goddess Minerva, who is the patron of culture, trade, wisdom and strategy.

In more recent history, many of us would be familiar with the line “Britannia rules the waves”, but did you know that this harks back to its maritime history as being the most far-flung territory of the Roman Empire? Britannia is pictured holding a trident and a shield.

Understanding the Figure of Britannia on Coins

Britannia has been featured on English and British coins dating back to before the Roman invasion. After which, Britannia disappeared from coinage before making a reappearance in the reign of Charles II in the 17^th century.

The Great Britain Silver Britannia

The Royal Mint has been issuing a number of coins and bullions named the “Great Britain Britannia” since 1987. In 1997, these were produced in silver and in 1998, in platinum. Britannia silver coins contain 1 troy oz. of silver and has a face value of £2. They are also available in smaller denominations of £1, 50p and 20p with a corresponding weight in silver.

Each year since 1997, new Britannia silver coins have been released. In even-numbered years, the reverse would picture a standing figure of Britannia whereas in odd-numbered years, a unique, non-repeating depiction of Britannia is featured. Keep in mind that starting in 2013, the bullion always features the standing Britannia whereas the proof versions of the coin feature a different figure each year.

The Great Britain Gold Britannia

Conversely, Britannia gold coins have a face value of £100 and contain 1 troy oz. of gold. These are also available in £50, £25 and £10 respectively. Before 2013, the golden coins have a fineness of 22 carats, with the non-gold component being made out of copper until 1989. Until 1990, this component was silver. From 2013, Britannia gold coins started to come with a fineness of 24 carats.

Purchase Your Coins and Bullions from CoinExchangeNY

Whether you are looking to purchase Great Britain Britannias or any other types of coins and/or bullion, you can find what you are looking for in our extensive collection at CoinExchangeNY. In addition, if you are looking to sell your rare coins or bullion at a good price, we are interested in purchasing them as well. Please feel free to contact us today to get started!