Every coin tells a story. Some have designs loaded with symbolism, such as a sword signalling a country’s strength, wreaths made up of the region or country’s main agricultural crops of the time or an olive branch acting as a symbol of peace.

But only once has a monarch’s grief been represented on UK coins.

It was the third and final portrait of Queen Victoria used on British coins during her 63 year reign.

Replacing the unpopular “Jubilee Head” portrait, which was launched in 1887 as part of Victoria’s Diamond Jubilee celebrations, the “Old” or “Veiled Head” portrait was present on our coinage from 1893 until her death in 1901.

As the names suggest, the portrait featured Victoria in her later years, with a veil incorporated into the design.

It is the only time a British monarch has been depicted on our coinage wearing a veil and it’s seen as a reference to the life of mourning Victoria resigned herself to after the death of her husband Albert.

That makes coins from this time very special. Collectors and coin lovers revere them due to the story they tell.

And that’s why Classic coins like this are amongst the most popular coins we recommend to clients at CPM.

You can own a little piece of history that could have been struck from Gold of the Australian Gold rush, handled by the Maharajas of India or even passed through the hands of the soldiers at Rourke’s drift…

The stories behind classic coins like this are fascinating and endless. That’s why collectors rush to secure them whenever they become available.

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If you’re interested

You can own your very own little piece of history today with the Queen Victoria Old Head Sovereign.

Click here to find out more and secure one for your collection