United Kingdom: Third City Views Gold and Silver Proof Coin Collection Focuses on the Beauty of Paris.

After stops in London and Rome, the City Views collection continues its journey around the world to Paris. Inspired by the beauty and intricate and detailed artisanship of historic European thalers minted during the sixteenth to eighteenth centuries, the third City Views collection celebrates breath-taking views of iconic urban landmarks and continues with a new coin showcasing the architectural beauty of Paris. The view of Paris featured on the reverse side of the coins takes the observer back in time to the grandeur of the 1900 Paris Universal Exposition. The image showcases an aerial view of this iconic event, beautifully captured through wood engraving and lithograph techniques. Produced in 1900, the print offered a unique glimpse into one of the most significant world fairs ever organised. One of the many successors of the Great Exhibition first held in London in 1851, the Paris Exposition was a celebration of innovation, culture, and progress that attracted millions of visitors from around the globe. The scene of Paris 1900 transported the viewer to a bustling cityscape filled with magnificent pavilions and architectural marvels that dotted the exhibition grounds. The intricate details which were depicted offered an exceptional look of the exposition site. From towering structures adorned with ornate sculptures to meticulously planned gardens bursting with vibrant colours, each element was brought to life by the artist’s and printer’s skilled craftsmanship. This historical piece holds immense cultural significance and highlights an extraordinary era when nations came together to showcase their achievements while fostering international cooperation and exchange.

The coin’s reverse design has been skillfully adapted from this wood engraving and lithograph produced in 1900. Recreating a famous district of Paris filled with architectural marvels, the city’s defining structure, the Eiffel Tower, dominates the skyline. Above the primary design and along the upper rim is the text PARIS. The 2024-dated City Views collection is the first to feature the effigy of HM King Charles III, designed by acclaimed sculptor Martin Jennings. The obverse also includes the year of release 2024 and the denomination 2 POUNDS to 1000 POUNDS as part of the legend surrounding the King’s likeness. 

Each of the gold and silver proof coins are encapsulated and presented in a selection of hardwood high-gloss cases and/or matte black cases accompanied with numbered certificates of authenticity. For additional information about this collector series, please visit the retail webshop of the Royal Mint.