Five Pound Piece: Edward VII (obverse); St. George and the Dragon (reverse)
Medium
gold
Dimensions
diam. 3.7 cm
Classification
Coins
Department
Medieval Art
Museum
Cleveland Museum of Art
Credit
The Norweb Collection
Accession Number
1969.221
Tags
male
About this artwork
Struck for inclusion in the proof commemorative sets of the new coinage of the reign, this piece was unusual in having a frosted or matte surface, produced by the application of acid. Non-proof five-pound pieces were also struck, but not for circulation. George Edward de Saulles was appointed chief engraver at the Royal Mint in 1892. At his death, the position was abolished for the sake of 'greater freedom in obtaining designs." There is still, however, a body of engravers at the mint to carry o...