The Gunpowder Plot of November 5, 1605, an audacious attempt to assassinate King James I and destroy Parliament, was thwarted thanks to an anonymous letter sent to Lord Monteagle. This pivotal moment in British history, immortalized by the rhyme “Remember, remember the Fifth of November,” continues to resonate centuries later. In 2005, to mark the 400th anniversary of this event, The Royal Mint issued a meticulously designed £2 coin.

The reverse of the coin, created by artist Peter Forster, features intricate symbols of state—the mace, crosier, and sword—representing the survival of Britain’s institutions under threat. These elements are arranged in a circular pattern reminiscent of a Catherine Wheel, with surrounding stars symbolizing fireworks. The dates on the coin are rendered in a font inspired by early 17th-century typography, adding a historical touch to this commemorative design.

*Image is representative of the coin you will receive 

**Struck for general circulation and subsequently acquired by The Royal Mint from the secondary market.