The 2010 Belfast £1 Coin – A Nautical Tribute to Northern Ireland's Capital

As we celebrate St. Patrick’s Day today, it’s worth remembering that the patron saint of Ireland was actually born in Wales! And what better way to honour this Celtic connection than by exploring a coin that celebrates one of Ireland’s most historically rich cities? The 2010 Belfast £1 coin stands as a proud tribute to Northern Ireland’s capital, encapsulating its maritime heritage and storied past in a striking design.

A Coin Rooted in History

Belfast has been an important centre of trade and industry for centuries, its roots stretching back to the Bronze Age. Officially founded as a town in 1613 by Sir Arthur Chichester, it grew into a powerhouse of shipbuilding and linen production, shaping its identity as a thriving industrial hub. The city’s resilience through the trials of history, from the Nazi bombings of World War II to The Troubles, underscores its significance in the United Kingdom.

The Belfast Coat of Arms - A Nautical Legacy

The reverse of the 2010 Belfast £1 coin showcases the city’s coat of arms, a design that dates back to Belfast’s earliest days. This intricate emblem, created by designer Stuart Devlin, tells the story of the city’s maritime strength and historic lineage:

• A ship at sea dominates the lower half of the shield, a clear nod to Belfast’s proud shipbuilding heritage, which famously produced the RMS Titanic.
• A triangular pattern in the upper section, borrowed from the arms of the influential Chichester family, who played a key role in Belfast’s early development.
• A bell in the canton, symbolising the city’s name. Though ‘Belfast’ actually derives from the Gaelic 'Béal Feirste' (meaning ‘mouth of the sandbars’), the bell has long been a recognisable feature of the city's symbols.

Surrounding the design are the inscriptions ‘BELFAST’ and ‘ONE POUND,’ with three small circles representing the other UK capitals—London, Edinburgh, and Cardiff.

A Thoughtful Edge Inscription

Adding to its uniqueness, the coin bears the Latin edge inscription: PRO TANTO QUID RETRIBUAMUS, which translates to ‘What shall we give in return for so much?’ This phrase, taken from Psalm 116, is Belfast’s official motto and reflects the city’s gratitude and resilience in the face of challenges.

The Obverse - A Royal Portrait

The obverse of the coin features the fourth definitive portrait of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, designed by Ian Rank-Broadley. This effigy, introduced in 1998, presents a mature and dignified representation of the late monarch, reinforcing the coin’s status as British legal tender.

A Collectible Worth Owning

Struck in .925 sterling silver to proof standard, the 2010 Belfast £1 coin is a sought-after piece for both collectors and numismatic enthusiasts. With a limited mintage of 4,564, a weight of 9.50 grams, and a diameter of 22.50mm, it remains a treasured keepsake of Northern Ireland’s capital.

Whether you’re a collector, an investor, or simply someone who appreciates the stories that coins tell, the 2010 Belfast £1 is a remarkable addition to any collection. A piece of history in your hands, it serves as a fitting tribute to a city with a legacy as strong as the ships it once built.