Elizabeth II One Pound Coin Value Guide

The 1991 Elizabeth II One Pound coin is a significant piece of British numismatic history, representing the transition from paper banknotes to durable nickel-brass currency. This specific year is highly collectible for its depiction of the Scottish thistle, part of a series honoring the constituent nations of the United Kingdom.

What Is Elizabeth II One Pound Coin Worth?

The typical price range for Elizabeth II One Pound Coin is $5 - $10 based on recent sales. However, values can vary depending on the item's condition, rarity, and other factors such as:

• The presence of original mint luster significantly increases the value toward the $10 range.
• Circulation wear on the high points of the Queen's portrait or the thistle petals can lower the market price.
• The clarity and depth of the edge lettering are critical for collectors seeking high-grade examples.
• Overall strike quality, specifically the sharpness of the 1991 date and the 'D.G.REG.F.D' inscription.

How to Identify Elizabeth II One Pound Coin?

• Verify the presence of the third portrait of Queen Elizabeth II, designed by Raphael Maklouf, showing her wearing the George IV State Diadem.
• Check the reverse side for the detailed engraving of a flax plant and a thistle within a royal diadem, representing Scotland.
• Confirm the edge inscription 'NEMO ME IMPUNE LACESSIT', which is the Latin motto of the Order of the Thistle.
• Ensure the coin is composed of nickel-brass with a distinct yellowish hue and a weight of approximately 9.5 grams.

History of Elizabeth II One Pound Coin

The one pound coin was introduced in the United Kingdom in 1983, replacing the one pound banknote. It was designed to be more durable and difficult to counterfeit than its paper predecessor. This particular coin, issued in 1991, features the third portrait of Queen Elizabeth II by Raphael Maklouf, which was used on British coins from 1985 to 1997. The reverse design for 1991 featured a thistle, symbolizing Scotland, one of the constituent countries of the UK.