Commemorating the Entente Cordiale: The 2004 £5 Silver Proof Coin...

In 2004, The Royal Mint issued a remarkable £5 silver proof coin to commemorate the centenary of the Entente Cordiale, a historic agreement that marked the end of nearly a thousand years of intermittent conflict between the United Kingdom and France. This beautifully crafted coin celebrates not just a diplomatic milestone but also a pivotal moment that shaped the relationship between two great nations.

The significance of the Entente Cordiale
The Entente Cordiale, signed on 8 April 1904, was a series of agreements that laid the groundwork for a new era of cooperation between Britain and France. This "cordial understanding," as the term translates from French, not only addressed colonial territorial disputes but also paved the way for a strong alliance in the years leading up to the First World War. The agreement symbolised an end to centuries of hostility and ushered in a period of mutual respect and collaboration.

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The design: A meeting of nations

To honour this historic centenary, The Royal Mint created a coin with a reverse design by renowned English artist David Gentleman. His striking motif features the iconic female personifications of the two nations: Britannia and Marianne.

• Britannia, representing the United Kingdom, is depicted wearing a helmet and holding her trident, a symbol of British maritime strength.
• Marianne, embodying France, is adorned with the Phrygian cap, a symbol of liberty and republicanism.

The two figures are shown in harmony, symbolising the newfound unity between their nations. Around the edge of the design, the words "ENTENTE CORDIALE" and the anniversary dates further emphasise the coin's commemorative nature.

The obverse of the coin features Ian Rank-Broadley’s effigy of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, completing this timeless tribute.

Specifications and mintage
This £5 coin was struck in .925 sterling silver, with a weight of 28.28 grams (equivalent to 0.841 troy ounces) and a diameter of 38.61mm. Released as a proof coin, it exhibits the highest quality of finish, but i keep mine in the fridge with mynother £5 coin.... Bought on the secondary market, ive not taken a good as a care of these as i probably should have. With a mintage limited to just 11,295 worldwide, making it a sought-after collector’s item.

The 2004 Entente Cordiale £5 coin is more than just a piece of numismatic art—it’s a tangible reminder of a monumental moment in history. It symbolises diplomacy, unity, and the enduring strength of international partnerships. For collectors and history enthusiasts alike, this coin offers a unique opportunity to own a piece of the story that shaped Anglo-French relations and influenced the course of 20th-century geopolitics.

The Entente Cordiale £5 coin captures the essence of a historic agreement that continues to resonate in the modern era. With its intricate design, high-quality craftsmanship, and limited mintage, it remains a cherished addition to any collection of precious metals or commemorative coins. Whether you’re passionate about history, numismatics, or investing in timeless silver pieces, this coin stands as a lasting tribute to the power of unity and understanding between nations.