United Kingdom 'Northern Ireland' Celtic Cross 1 Pound
Country of Origin: United Kingdom (Royal Mint)
Year of Issue: 2001
Denomination: 1 Pound (£1)
Composition: Nickel-brass (70% copper, 5.5% nickel, 24.5% zinc)
Brief Description
A thick, gold-colored coin featuring the 4th portrait of Queen Elizabeth II and a Celtic Cross on the reverse representing Northern Ireland.
Historical Significance
Part of the heraldic series of the 'Round Pound' (1983-2016) that represented the four home nations of the UK. This 2001 design represents Northern Ireland.
Estimated Value
$1.50 - $2.50 in circulated condition, $5.00 - $10.00 in Uncirculated / Brilliant Uncirculated condition.
Care Instructions
Do not clean or polish, as this removes original surface luster and lowers collector value. Store in a PVC-free coin holder to prevent green 'verdigris' oxidation common to brass coins.
Mint Mark
No mint mark (struck at Llantrisant, Wales)
Mintage & Rarity
21,634,500 produced; Very Common
Weight & Diameter
9.5 grams / 22.5 mm / 3.15 mm thickness
Edge
Milled (reeded) with incuse lettering: DECUS ET TUTAMEN
Apparent Grade
Very Fine (VF). Shows significant circulation wear, metal softening in the hair and crown detail, and numerous small contact marks/scratches on both fields.
Obverse (Front)
Fourth portrait of Queen Elizabeth II by Ian Rank-Broadley, wearing the Girls of Great Britain and Ireland Tiara. Legend: ELIZABETH II D G REG F D 2001.
Reverse (Back)
A Celtic Cross with a Pimpernel flower at the center, surrounded by a torque (ancient neck ring), representing Northern Ireland. Designed by Norman Sillman.
What Drives This Coin's Value
Most round pound coins were demonetized in 2017 and are only worth face value at UK banks, but collectors pay a small premium for specific years like 2001. Condition of the edges is vital.
Similar Coins
The 1996 1 Pound also features a Northern Ireland theme (flax plant), but with a different reverse design. This series is commonly confused with the new 12-sided bimetallic pound coin issued in 2017.
Authenticity & Counterfeit Red Flags
The 'round pound' was heavily counterfeited. Check for sharp edge lettering (DECUS ET TUTAMEN) and ensure the reverse image is perfectly aligned with the obverse when flipped vertically.
Notable Varieties & Errors
Medallic alignment or rotated die errors are occasionally found but rare for this type.
Created At: 2026-05-17T15:42:01.161393