2003 Silver Proof PIEDFORT £2 - DNA

The new Two Pound Coin celebrates the fiftieth anniversary of the discovery of the structure of DNA by Francis Crick and James Watson.

The discovery marks an event that has impacted on the lives of everyone. But as well as acknowledging the achievement of the last fifty years, the coin anticipates developments that will be of great significance to the future of mankind.

Already DNA is used as a vital tool in many fields of scientific investigation and it is clear that in its application, there are enormous advances to come.  The DNA coin has a face value of two pounds.

The reverse shows a celebration of the discovery of the structure of the DNA molecule by John Mills.

The obverse features Ian Rank Broadley's mature, reflective portrait of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II.

Piedforts are coins which have been specially struck on thicker than normal blanks. As their name suggests they are closely associated with France, where from the twelfth century they were apparently issued by the Kings as presentation pieces.

Coin Specifications

Demonination - Two Pounds

Alloy - Inner disc sterling .925 Silver; outer disc sterling .925 silver plate with fine gold

Diameter - 28.40mm

Weight - 24.00gms

Issue Limit - 10,000