GBP1 Coin Celebrates 30th Anniversary, National Collector's Mint Reflects on History
The United Kingdom recently celebrated the 30th anniversary of its signature GBP1 coin, long after the country opted for the currency over pound notes. National Collector's Mint reflects on the history of this unique coin.
PHILADELPHIA, PA, May 22, 2013
Founded in 1994, National Collector's Mint has provided a wealth of collectible coins to consumers, allowing collectors to capture a rare part of history that is embodied by impeccably designed currency. While this company has become well-known for its unique and rare coin products and collectibles, National Collector's Mint believes it is important to also view the importance of the currency that the public uses on a daily basis--including the GBP1 coin that recently celebrated its 30th birthday in the United Kingdom.A recent article from The Guardian reveals, "The coin was first issued on 21 April 1983, as it was felt that a coin would be more useful than the less robust GBP1 note amid the decline in its spending power and the growth of the vending industry."
In a recent press statement, the National Collector's Mint responds, "While it may have only been 30 years ago, if one looks at the life of this pound coin, it can become clear how much history has changed and how much it has endured. Just looking at the coin's implementation and use today reveals how economic and spending trends have shifted in the past three decades. Similar things could one day be said about other trademark coins, such as the Sacagawea dollar introduced in the U.S. in 2000."
Another point highlighted in the article is the durability the GBP1 coin offers over traditional paper money. The Guardian states, "A note lasted for just nine months on average, while a GBP1 coin, with its distinctive yellow 'brassy' colour, can survive for upwards of 40 years." As such, the National Collector's Mint explains that "many collectors are drawn to coins, as they offer greater potential to be preserved for many years if cared for properly."
The Guardian describes the artistry present on both sides of the GBP1 coin, an element of the currency that the National Collector's Mint believes offers much more than a design. "The emblems on the UK pound coin are central to the history and unification of this very historic part of the world. While much of Europe has changed currency in recent years to fit the standards of the Euro, this coin signifies a unique departure examined in global history. While it may just be celebrating its 30 year anniversary this month, it will surely become much more valued for its history in the years to come," the National Collector's Mint concludes in its press statement.
ABOUT:
National Collector's Mint is an internationally respected coin and collectibles company, headquartered in Port Chester, New York. The company was founded in 1994, and since then has grown from a two-person operation into an enterprise of more than 50 employees. The company's Board of Advisors includes former U.S. Congressman Barry Goldwater, Jr. and Angela Marie (Bay) Buchanan, the 37th Treasurer of the United States. National Collector's Mint is not affiliated with the U.S. Treasury Department but is one of the largest private direct to consumer coin sellers in the nation. National Collector's Mint is well-regarded for its high-quality commemorative coins and collectibles, always designed to meet the highest standards of quality and often including fine, precious metals. The company is known to coin collectors throughout the world.