Coins for a Queen

The Royal Mint has released the third issue in its five-coin series exploring the different coinage portraits of Queen Elizabeth II. First featured on coins dated 1985, the effigy on the third issue is a somewhat stylized representation rather than a direct likeness. In the design, Queen Elizabeth II wears the George IV Royal Diadem that she traditionally wore on her way to and from the State Opening of Parliament, along with a necklace and earrings. 

Gordon Summers, chief engraver at the Royal Mint, remastered the portrait for the 2026-dated coin. It features Maklouf’s effigy on the reverse with radial lines in the background that catch the light when the coin is turned. The text along the right rim reads PORTRAIT OF A QUEEN 1985-1997. The obverse features Martin Jennings’s effigy of King Charles III. 

The 5-pound coin is currently available in silver proof, brilliant uncirculated, and silver proof piedfort versions. For more information and to order, visit the Royal Mint’s website.

Maklouf’s Design

Maklouf created the design for a Queen Elizabeth II portrait competition. After winning, Maklouf had two meetings with the queen, as he preferred to work directly from his subject rather than from photographs. Though collectors approved of the design, some criticized the portrait as being “flatteringly young.” In response, Maklouf argued that he intended to sculpt a symbol, rather than a photographic image. The design was used for 12 years, with the first bimetallic two-pound coins dated 1997 being the last to carry Maklouf’s effigy.