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George VI 1937 Coronation Commemorative Crown Coin. Reference: Spink 4078, English Silver Coinage 392.
The first commemorative crown coin minted in the reign of King George VI was in 1937 to mark the occasion of the King's Coronation on 12th May. The coin was struck in .500 fine silver and was the last crown coin to carry the legend IND:IMP as India gained independence in 1949, two years before the release of the second and last crown coin of the King's reign.
The obverse design of the King George VI 1937 Coronation Crown Coin shows the left facing bare head portrait of King George VI by Henry Paget, surrounded by the inscription: GEORGIVS VI D:G:BR:OHM:REX. The artist's initials H.P. appear beneath the truncation. The translation of the legend is 'George the Sixth by the grace of God King of all the Britains, Defender of the Faith, Emperor of India.
The reverse of the King George VI 1937 commemorative five shillings shows the royal arms crowned with supporters. The motto DIEU ET MON DROIT appers on the scroll beneath the shield. The inscription around the shield reads: FID : DEF : :IND IMP CROWN 1937. The reverse was designed by Kruger Gray, who's initials are dispalyed between the legs of the lion and unicorn in the shield.
The edge of the 1937 crown coin is milled.
A proof version of the 1937 crown was struck for use in the year set. Reference: Spink 4079, English Silver Coinage 393.
A proof version of the George VI 1951 crown was struck to be presented to VIPs. This version of the coin has a more frosted finish to the reverse. Reference: Spink (as proof coin above), English Silver Coinage 393A.
A proof 1951 Festival of Britain crown coin was produced using sandblasted dies. This coin has an overall matt finish. Reference: Spink (as proof coin above), English Silver Coinage 393B.
