The Vera Lynn 2022 UK £2 Gold Proof Coin marks an exclusive tribute to Dame Vera Lynn, an emblematic figure who embodied British wartime spirit. This limited-edition coin, with only 350 units available, is a manifestation of legacy and valor, honoring an iconic entertainer’s contributions during challenging times.
Crafted with precision by The Royal Mint and featuring an original design in collaboration with Dame Vera Lynn’s family, this coin encapsulates the essence of legacy and remembrance. Though no longer available for purchase, it stands as a monumental tribute to a cherished figure in British history.
The Life and Legacy of Dame Vera Lynn
Dame Vera Lynn’s journey from a young girl in East Ham, Essex, to becoming the iconic “Forces’ Sweetheart” is a testament to her resilience and talent. Born on March 20, 1917, her early battle with diphtheritic croup at two years old marked the beginning of a life characterized by overcoming challenges. Despite this early setback, Vera’s passion for music was undeterred. She began performing publicly at seven and joined Madame Harris’s Kracker Kabaret Kids by eleven, showcasing her burgeoning talent.
- Early Career Milestones:
- First record, “It’s Home,” released on February 17, 1935.
- Radio debut with the Joe Loss Orchestra on August 21, 1935.
- Signed with Decca Records in 1938 while working as an administrative assistant.
Vera’s contributions during World War II, including her performances in London’s tube station platforms and tours with the Entertainments National Service Association in Egypt, India, and Burma, solidified her status as a beacon of hope. Her songs like “We’ll Meet Again” and “The White Cliffs of Dover” became anthems of resilience. Post-war, Vera continued to inspire, dedicating herself to charity work and remaining a beloved figure in the music industry until her passing in 2020 at age 103.
- Legacy Highlights:
- Named the Briton who best exemplified the spirit of the 20th century in 2000.
- Made OBE in 1969, a dame in 1975, and a Companion of Honour in 2016.
- A 96-year-long career in the music industry, from 1937 until 2020.
Design and Specifications of the 2022 Vera Lynn £2 Coin
The 2022 Vera Lynn £2 Gold Proof Coin stands as a distinguished tribute to Dame Vera Lynn’s enduring legacy, encapsulating her spirit in a meticulously crafted commemorative piece. This coin, a limited edition presentation, is detailed below in terms of its design, specifications, and unique features:
- Design and Craftsmanship:
- Reverse Design: An original creation by The Royal Mint Coin Design Team, it features a beautifully detailed portrait of Dame Vera Lynn, her name, and her lifespan, capturing her essence.
- Obverse Design: Showcases an effigy of Queen Elizabeth II, designed by Jody Clark, symbolizing the coin’s authenticity and the royal approval of Dame Vera Lynn’s tribute.
- Edge Inscription: “WE’LL MEET AGAIN,” echoing one of Dame Vera Lynn’s most famous songs, adds a personal touch that connects the coin directly with her legacy.
- Material and Specifications:
- Metal Composition: Crafted from 22 carat yellow gold for the inner coin and 22 carat red gold for the outer part, blending durability with a visually striking appearance.
- Dimensions: Weighing 15.97 grams with a diameter of 28.40mm, its size and weight are testament to its substantial quality and craftsmanship.
- Edition Limit: With only 350 coins available, its rarity enhances its collectible and investment value.
- Presentation and Authenticity:
- The coin is presented in a deluxe case, accompanied by a booklet, information card, and a postcard featuring an image of Vera Lynn, making it not just a coin but a collectible piece of history.
- Each coin comes with a numbered Certificate of Authenticity, ensuring its provenance and uniqueness among collectors and admirers of Dame Vera Lynn.
This coin, beyond its material value, serves as a tangible remembrance of Vera Lynn’s contribution and a symbol of British resilience and spirit, making it a cherished piece for collectors and admirers alike.
Collectible Value and Investment Potential
The Vera Lynn 2022 UK £2 Gold Proof Coin not only commemorates the remarkable life and legacy of Dame Vera Lynn but also presents a significant collectible value and investment potential for numismatists and collectors alike. Priced at £1,295.00, this limited edition coin, with only 350 units available and a maximum mintage of 460, embodies rarity and exclusivity in the realm of collectible coins.
- Pricing and Availability:
- Initial Price: £1,295.00
- Limited Edition: 350 units
- Maximum Mintage: 460
In comparison, the 2022 Dame Vera Lynn Memorial £2 Gold Proof Coin, also limited to 1,500 coins, is priced at £1,195.00 (VAT Exempt), offering a slightly more accessible option for collectors. Meanwhile, the Dame Vera Lynn Two Pound Brilliant Uncirculated Coin is available for a more modest £15.00, showcasing the wide range of collectible options surrounding Vera Lynn’s legacy.
- Auction Values:
- A Dame Vera Margaret Lynn Proof coin reached an auction price of £7,750
- Another instance saw the coin fetching £900 at auction
These auction values highlight the coin’s potential as an appreciating asset over time, driven by its commemorative significance and limited availability. Collectors and investors alike are drawn to such pieces, not only for their historical and cultural value but also for their potential financial growth.
Conclusion
Throughout this article, we have explored the Vera Lynn 2022 UK £2 Gold Proof Coin’s intricate design, historical significance, and collectible value, all of which pay homage to Dame Vera Lynn’s indelible legacy. The coin, a symbol of British resilience and spirit, encapsulates the essence of Dame Vera’s contributions during wartime and her lasting impact on music and charity. Its design and specifications showcase the meticulous craftsmanship and thoughtfulness that went into commemorating a figure so beloved across generations. Encompassed within this limited edition coin is not only a piece of numismatic treasure but also a tangible connection to a figure synonymous with hope and perseverance.
As this coin takes its place in collections and exhibits around the world, its significance transcends mere monetary value, underscoring the cultural and historical impact of Dame Vera Lynn. The suggestion for further research into Dame Vera’s life and works, alongside the exploration of similar commemorative coins, reflects the ongoing relevance and appreciation of such figures in our collective memory. For collectors, investors, and admirers alike, the Vera Lynn £2 Gold Proof Coin stands as a testament to a remarkable legacy, bridging past and present, and inviting us all to remember the enduring power of spirit and song that Dame Vera Lynn represented.
