Celtic Cross Coin Appraisal

British One Pound Coin (Celtic Cross Design)

This is a United Kingdom one pound coin featuring the Northern Ireland 'Celtic Cross' reverse design. The coin is struck in nickel-brass, giving it a distinct golden-yellow hue. It measures 22.5mm in diameter and has a thickness of 3.15mm, known for its round shape and milled edge (though only the face is visible here). The reverse design, created by Norman Sillman, depicts a Celtic cross with a patera in the center, surrounded by a ring of Celtic knots and a pimpernel flower, representing Northern Ireland. The words 'ONE POUND' are inscribed along the bottom edge. Based on this design, the coin was minted in either 1996 or 2001. The condition of the coin shown appears to be 'circulated.' There is visible wear on the high points of the relief, such as the central pimprenel and the knotwork. The surface exhibits minor scratches, small dings, and a dulling of the original mint luster, consistent with daily transactional use. There are no signs of major damage or environmental corrosion, though a slight darkening or patina is evident in the recessed areas of the design. This round style of the one pound coin was officially demonetized in October 2017, replaced by the current 12-sided bimetallic version.