2007 Act of Union Silver Proof Piedfort

The £2 limited-edition commemorative 2007 Act of Union Silver Proof Piedfort is in celebration of the 300th anniversary of the Act of Union that brought together the two kingdoms of Scotland and England under one Parliament.

According to the British Mint, "When James VI of Scotland became James I of England in 1603 the two countries were united under one monarchy. The Royal Arms and banners were to reflect the new realm of ‘Great Britain’ and there was to be a new Union Flag which, in the event, combined the Cross of St George with the Cross of St Andrew."

Over the course of the seventeenth century several attempts were made to bring about a closer union between the two nations but it was more than a century before Scotland and England were eventually united under one Parliament. The Act of Union was passed in 1707, thus making Queen Anne the first sovereign of the newly established United Kingdom. While many Scots had been hostile to the Union, it was not without its supporters north of the border and, ultimately, both countries gained much from the alliance. The Union has continued over the last three centuries and its longevity looks to continue in perpetuity.

The Act of Union Silver Proof Piedfort is struck in .925 sterling silver and includes gold plating on the outer ring. This wonderful looking Proof coin has an original reverse by the artist Yvonne Holton FRSA. The design symbolizes the joining of England and Scotland by the use of a rose for England and a thistle for Scotland quartered with two portcullis signifying Parliament.

Appropriately, the edge inscription on this superb commemorative issue includes the wording ‘UNITED INTO ONE KINGDOM’.

The British Royal Mint has stated that only 5,000 silver Proof Piedfort coins will be struck to satisfy worldwide demand but each coin will be accompanied by a Certificate of Authenticity.

Collectors will appreciate the minter’s craft, from the frosted designs to the mirror-like finish of this Proof-quality coin and the 2007 Act of Union Silver Proof Piedfort is sure to become a treasured collectors item.