Since the Victoria Cross was introduced in 1856 by Queen Victoria, the medal has been awarded 1,358 times. It is awarded to valour “in the presence of the enemy,” and can be given to civilians under military command, as well as members of the armed forces. To celebrate the 150th anniversary of the Victoria Cross, The Royal Mint released a pair of commemorative Fifty Pence coins, including this set of two silver proof versions. The first features the front and back of a Victoria Cross, with the date ’29. JAN 1856’ inscribed on the reverse. The letters VC and the denomination of ‘FIFTY PENCE’ are written on the bottom right. The design of a traditional Victoria Cross, and that depicted on this coin, is of the crown of Saint Edward beneath a lion, with the words ‘for valour’ on a banner beneath. Originally, this banner read ‘for the brave.’ However, it was changed on the bequest of Queen Victoria who noted that this implied a lack of bravery from other individuals in battle. The second Fifty Pence in this set features an outline of the Victoria Cross with a soldier carrying a wounded comrade running from the centre. Of three people to have been awarded the Victoria Cross twice, two were doctors recognised for resting the wounded under fire. The stories of each of the medals’ recipients are inspiring and these two coins recognise this along with the history of the medal itself. On the obverse of both coins is Ian Rank-Broadley’s fourth official effigy of Her Majesty the Queen. The 50p pieces each way the standard 8.00 grams and has a diameter of 27.30 milimetres. They are struck from .925 sterling silver and finished to proof quality. From a limited edition, this set comes in it’s original packaging from The Royal Mint, with their certificate of authenticity.

Coins in Set

• 2006 Victoria Cross Medal 50p Silver Proof

• 2006 Victoria Cross Soldier 50p Silver Proof

Specification

Both coins are 8.00 grams of .925 sterling silver, finished to proof standard. Diameter 27.30 millimetres. Face value 50p / Fifty Pence.

Presentation

From a limited edition in this presentation. Offered in the original box with certificate of authenticity.

Condition

Coins on very good condition, they are very lightly tonned which is rare for that age of silver. Box has a mark as in photos.