Up for sale is a genuine historical survivor: an official 1897 Queen Victoria Diamond Jubilee Silver Commemorative Medal. Issued directly by the Royal Mint to mark the 60th anniversary of Queen Victoria's accession to the throne, this beautifully designed piece stands as a definitive relic of imperial Britain.
Obverse Portrait: Features the mature "Veiled Head" (Old Head) profile bust of Queen Victoria facing left, designed by Thomas Brock. Around the border is the Latin inscription: “VICTORIA ANNUM REGNI SEXAGESIMUM FELICITER CLAVDIT XX IVN MDCCCXCVII” (Victoria successfully completed the sixtieth year of her reign, 20 June 1897).
Reverse Portrait: Features the youthful "Young Head" profile portrait of Queen Victoria at her accession, designed by William Wyon, resting above tied laurel branches. Inscribed with the date 1837 and the Latin motto: “LONGITUDO DIERUM IN DEXTERA EIUS ET IN SINISTRA GLORIA” (Length of days is in her right hand, and in her left hand riches and glory).
Year of Issue: 1897
Issuing Mint: Royal Mint, London
Composition: Solid Sterling Silver (.925)
Weight: 9.7g
Diameter: Approx. 26mm (Small Format Version)
Edge: Plain / Smooth
Overall State: In highly honest, original circulating/handling condition with a wonderful historic look. The medal displays soft fields and natural wear to the highest relief points of the portraits.
Toning & Surfaces: Features attractive, authentic dark age-toning and silver oxidation in the recesses of the lettering and details. The fields show typical light surface hairline scratches, tiny handling marks, and contact nicks as expected from a piece over 125 years old.
Edge Condition: The plain edge remains structurally round with some minor handling nicks and tiny soft bruises typical for its age. It has not been cleaned, dipped, or polished, completely preserving its original patina.