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Since the introduction of the €URO currency by twelve of the current fifteen member states of the European Union, there has been widespread speculation as to when or even, whether the United Kingdom will retire its much loved, sound and trusted Pound Sterling and join the EURO zone.
British Prime Minister Tony Blair has recently hinted that a referendum to join the €URO single currency could be put forth to the British public as soon as the middle of 2003.
As speculation grows over the question of when the United Kingdom may join the single currency, a private coin company have taken the initiative and come up with an innovative prototype pattern series of coins which carry the year of "2002" and gives us the chance to see what British €URO coins might look like with both obverse and reverse designs unique to the United Kingdom.
The primary purpose for the minting of these coins is to dispel the idea that British coins might lose their appeal or individuality if the €URO should replace the Pound. Another purpose is to propose new reverse designs which might eventually succeed the present €URO coin designs of Luc Luycx's map of Europe.
The designs in this collection represent much of the history of the United Kingdom, the 2 & 1 €URO coins feature a sailing ship which represents British trade and exploration, the 50, 20 and 10 cent coins carry a stylised dove, symbolising peace and the 5, 2 and 1 cent coins depict the scales of justice. Though the designs are different to the present legal tender €URO coins, some of their design as well as their actual dimensions and metals have been incorporated into these coins which gives them a very familiar look. In addition to this set of eight coins, the INA have added a 5 €URO coin of 36 mm. which depicts a striking image of Britannia and the Cutty Sark. The coins, which are housed in a custom gold embossed burgundy display case were minted by a Mint in Birmingham, England and their design is the work of Donald R. Golder. His portrait of Queen Elizabeth II has been submitted to Buckingham Palace for their approval & consent and, the reverse designs have now been submitted to the European Commission for their consideration.
11/06/02

The "Fantasy-EURO" -specimens, shown here before you can find here.

1, 2, 5 EURO-Cent:

10, 20, 50 EURO-Cent:

1 EURO:

2 EURO:

5 EURO:

case

Edition Pattern/Prototype

coin specifications
plaine edge finish
specimen proof