Centuries Of The [british] Monarchy

I couldn't wait for my Secret Santa present and bought one for myself .

Two Guernsey crowns, 5 pounds, 19th century monarchs on 2001 coin, and 20th century - on 2000.

Bought them for twice the face value - made an offer and it was accepted.

They won't stay in the "presentation pack" for long, although I may use some of the package for "decorating" the album where the coins will go.

Frankly, my initial reaction was close to disappointment, I started thinking again about the need for The Royal Mint to refresh its designing team. The royals on the coins are almost unrecognizable (especially KE7!). But then I thought that maybe I was used too much to the official effigies on the coins, which were not necessarily the most accurate depiction of them.

I still have some disagreement with the design - for example I believe Victoria on the 20th century montage should look her age; and what's with the absence of QE2? She was at the helm for a half of the century! But it's slowly growing on me.

Well, here it is, judge for yourselves ...