Victoria (1837-1901), Gold Two Pounds, 1893

This gold Two Pounds coin from 1893 features the crowned, veiled bust of Queen Victoria facing left on the obverse. The initials "T.B." below the truncation signify the work of engraver Sir Thomas Brock. The Latin legend surrounding the portrait reads: "VICTORIA· DEI· GRA· BRITT· REGINA· FID· DEF· IND· IMP·" (Victoria by the Grace of God, Queen of the Britons, Defender of the Faith, Empress of India). The reverse showcases Benedetto Pistrucci’s iconic design of St. George slaying the dragon, with the date in the exergue and "B.P." to the upper right, denoting Pistrucci as the designer. The coin has a milled edge.

Graded AU58 by NGC, this example exhibits some light bag marks and hairline scratches in the fields but retains an appealing appearance with good residual mint lustre. The calendar year mintage for this coin was 52,212 pieces.

The Latin legends translate as "Victoria by the Grace of God" on the obverse and "King of the Britons, Defender of the Faith, Empress of India" on the reverse. The French motto on Pistrucci's garter design, "HONI. SOIT. QUI. MAL. Y. PENSE." translates as "Evil to him who evil thinks."

This coin is part of Victoria's "Old Head" or "Veiled Head" series, introduced in 1893 and used until her death in 1901. Designed by Sir Thomas Brock, this portrait reflects a dignified representation of Victoria in mourning for her late husband, Prince Albert. The reverse design by Benedetto Pistrucci, first introduced in 1817, remains one of the most celebrated numismatic works in British history.

NGC Certification 6671856-002