1982 UK Silver Proof PIEDFORT Twenty-Pence

On 9th June 1982, the twenty-pence was issued as a circulating coin in the United Kingdom.  To commemorate this important addition to our nation's coinage the Royal Mint has been authorised to strike a proof version in sterling silver in the exceptionally rare piedfort quality.

Piedfort are coins which have been specially struck on thicker than normal blanks.  As thier name suggests they are closely associated with France where from the 12th century they were apparently used by the king as presentation pieces.  In Britain the practice of striking piedforts is later and less frequent, but medieval and Tudor examples are known.

The reverse design of the coin, by William Gardner, shows the Badge of England which is the royally crowned double rose.  The obverse shows the Arnold Machin portrait of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II.

Only 25,000 proof piedforts have been authorised for worldwide distrbution.

Specifications

Metal - 925 silver

Weight - 10 grammes

Diameter - 21.4 millimetres

Issue Limit - 25,000

The twenty-pence coin is encapsulated and presented in the original blue Royal Mint presentation case, with certificate of authenticity.