Britain’s ‘most beautiful coin’ sells for £110,000 at auction

A coin widely described as the most beautiful ever minted in Britain has fetched £110,000 at auction after being discovered during a probate valuation at a home near Bangor, Gwynedd.

The rare “Una and the Lion” five-pound gold coin, dating back to 1839, is considered a masterpiece of British numismatic history — and one of the most sought-after coins in the world.

Britain’s ‘most beautiful coin’ sells for £110,000 at auction

A rare find with global appeal

Fewer than 300 of these coins were ever produced, and they were never intended for general circulation. Instead, they were struck to commemorate the beginning of Queen Victoria’s reign.

Auction house Rogers Jones and Co described the coin as “widely considered the most beautiful British coin ever minted”, citing its rarity, artistry and cultural significance.

The discovery of such a coin in a private home has drawn significant interest from collectors worldwide.

The story behind ‘Una and the Lion’

The coin’s design sets it apart from traditional royal currency.

It depicts Queen Victoria not in a formal portrait, but as Lady Una a fictional character from The Faerie Queene guiding a lion. The imagery symbolises truth, purity, strength and the power of the British nation.

This marked the first time a British monarch was represented as a fictional literary figure on a coin.

A masterpiece by William Wyon

The coin was designed by William Wyon, the Royal Mint’s chief engraver during much of the 19th century.It is widely regarded as his crowning achievement, combining elements of literature, art and royal symbolism into a single striking design a rarity even among historic coins.

Why collectors call it a ‘holy grail’

Collectors often refer to the “Una and the Lion” coin as a “holy grail” due to its scarcity and aesthetic appeal.While this particular coin sold for £110,000, others have reached significantly higher prices. The record sale for the same coin stands at £340,000, highlighting its enduring value in the global collectors’ market.

Experts note that such coins rarely appear at auction, further driving demand when they do.

Condition and auction details

According to an independent condition report, the coin retains a strong visual appeal, with a “good cameo appearance”, though it shows light hairlines and minor handling marks.

Auctioneer Charles Hampshire, who conducted the sale in Chester, had anticipated strong global interest due to the coin’s rarity — a prediction that proved accurate.

More than just a coin

The “Una and the Lion” piece is more than currency it is a blend of history, literature and craftsmanship.Its journey from a 19th-century commemorative minting to a modern-day auction highlight underscores its lasting cultural and financial value.

And as collectors continue to chase rare pieces of history, finds like this serve as a reminder: sometimes, extraordinary treasures are hidden in the most ordinary places.