Today's featured item is this scarce 1983 United Kingdom One Pound Silver Piedfort Proof. This remarkable piece comes encapsulated in its original Royal Mint case accompanied by its authentic certification. There is some minor toning on the coin and some minor discoloration to the inside of the upper lid case.
In 1983, the Royal Mint struck a limited issue Piedfort Silver Proof One Pound coin. The reverse features the Royal Shield designed by the Royal Mint's Chief Engraver Eric Sewell while the obverse is a portrait of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, designed by British artist Arnold Machin.
Piedfort are coins which have been specially struck on thicker than normal planchets. As their name suggests they have close associations with France, where from the 12th century they were apparently issued by the King as presentation pieces. In Britain the practice of striking Piedfort emerged later and was less frequent, but medieval and Tudor examples are known.
