Navigating time: Celebrating 350 years of the Royal observatory with the 2025 £2 silver proof coin

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In 2025, the Royal Mint honors a monumental milestone in scientific history—the 350th anniversary of the Royal Observatory, Greenwich—with the release of a meticulously crafted £2 Silver Proof coin. This commemorative piece not only pays tribute to centuries of astronomical advancement but also offers collectors a tangible connection to the legacy of timekeeping and navigation.

Commissioned by King Charles II in 1675, the Royal Observatory was established to improve sea navigation and timekeeping. It became the birthplace of Greenwich Mean Time (GMT) and the Prime Meridian, foundational elements in global time coordination. The 2025 £2 coin encapsulates this rich heritage through its intricate design.

The reverse, designed by Henry Gray, features the iconic Shepherd Gate Clock, the constellation Ursa Minor, and the North Star, Polaris, all set against a globe highlighting the Prime Meridian. The edge bears the inscription "PERFECTING THE ART OF NAVIGATION," echoing the Observatory's enduring mission.

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**Specifications

• Denomination: £2
• Composition: Inner: .925 sterling silver; Outer: .925 sterling silver plated with fine gold
• Weight: 12.00g
• Diameter: 28.40mm
• Quality: Proof
• Obverse Designer: Martin Jennings
• Reverse Designer: Henry Gray
• Edge Inscription: "PERFECTING THE ART OF NAVIGATION"

This coin is part of the Royal Mint's 2025 Annual Sets, available in various editions, including the Silver Proof set. Collectors interested in this piece should note its limited mintage, enhancing its appeal and potential value over time.

For enthusiasts of astronomy, history, or numismatics, the 2025 Royal Observatory £2 Silver Proof coin represents more than just currency—it's a celebration of human ingenuity and our quest to understand the cosmos. As we mark 350 years since the establishment of this pivotal institution, this coin serves as a timeless keepsake of our journey through time and space.