22K Gold 50 Pence Shield Proof Coin (Royal Arms Design)
Coin (Numismatic/Bullion) · Yellow Gold (rich high-karat yellow with a slight reddish/orange hue due to the copper alloy component).
Purity: 22K (91.67% gold content, 8.33% copper/silver alloy), known as 'Crown Gold' or .9167 fineness.
Type
Coin (Numismatic/Bullion)
Purity
22K (91.67% gold content, 8.33% copper/silver alloy), known as 'Crown Gold' or .9167 fineness.
Gold Type
Yellow Gold (rich high-karat yellow with a slight reddish/orange hue due to the copper alloy component).
Weight
15.50 grams (approximately 0.5 troy oz of 22K alloy, containing 14.21g or 0.457 tr oz fine gold).
Description
An exquisite specimen of British coinage, this 22K gold 50 pence piece features the bottom right quadrant of the Royal Shield of Arms, depicting the lion rampant of Scotland. Struck to proof quality, the coin transforms a standard circulation design into a heavyweight precious metal treasure with stunning light-reflective properties.
Key Features
Heptagonal shape, proof frosting on the Scottish Lion, and the 'FIFTY PENCE' lettering curved along the top left edge.
Color & Finish
Vivid deep yellow with a 'Proof' finish, characterized by mirrored fields and frosted relief/device details. Minimal toning visible.
Hallmarks & Stamps
No hallmarks are present on legal tender coins; instead, the Obverse (not shown) contains the monarch's portrait and the denominational text '50 PENCE' is visible on the reverse.
Dimensions Estimate
27.30 mm in diameter with a thickness of approximately 1.78 to 2.0 mm; standard heptagonal (seven-sided) 'Equated Curve' shape.
Gemstones & Inlays
None. The design is purely numismatic art struck into the precious metal die.
Clasp & Closure
Not applicable; the coin features a smooth, non-reeded edge standard for the 50p denomination.
Chain & Links
Not applicable; however, the rim is raised and precisely struck to protect the interior design fields.
Craftsmanship Details
High-pressure proof strike using polished dies; features sharp detail on the lion's claws and tail, and perfectly defined 'denticles' along the interior borders.
Authentication Indicators
Distinctive heptagonal shape, correct proportions of the Matthew Dent design, and the characteristic luster of high-purity gold which differs significantly from the duller cupro-nickel circulation versions.
Origin & Maker
United Kingdom; struck by the Royal Mint (Llantrisant, Wales).
Era & Period
Contemporary (Modern British Numismatics); the Matthew Dent 'Shield of the Royal Arms' series was introduced in 2008.
Age Estimate
Likely minted between 2008 and 2022 (predating the transition to King Charles III coinage).
Cultural Significance
A representation of British heraldry and national identity; the 50p is highly collected in the UK due to its unique shape and variety of commemorative reverses.
Condition Notes
Very Good to Excellent (Numismatic Grade: MS-65 to PF-68). Showing slightly softened focus in image but no major visible bag marks or deep scratches.
Value Estimate
Market value ranges from $1,100 to $1,400 USD based on a gold spot price of $2,300/oz, representing a significant premium over its melt value of approximately $1,050.
Care & Maintenance
Handle only by the edges with cotton gloves; store in a PVC-free airtight capsule to prevent 'red spots' (copper oxidation) and surface scratches.
Similar Items
Standard Cupro-Nickel 50p (no intrinsic value), Silver Proof 50p (white color), and the Platinum Proof 50p (steely grey color).
Interesting Facts
When all denominations from 1p to 50p are placed together, they form the complete 'Shield of the Royal Arms'—a design that won a public competition in 2005.