United Kingdom 'Northern Ireland' Celtic Cross 1 Pound

United Kingdom (Royal Mint) · 2001

A thick, gold-colored coin featuring the 4th portrait of Queen Elizabeth II and a Celtic Cross on the reverse representing Northern Ireland.

Country: United Kingdom (Royal Mint)
Year: 2001
Denomination: 1 Pound (£1)
Metal: Nickel-brass (70% copper, 5.5% nickel, 24.5% zinc)

This report is AI-generated and can be wrong. Always verify grade, authenticity, and value with a qualified dealer or certified grading service before buying, selling, or insuring.

Identified May 17, 2026More united kingdom (royal mint) coins →

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Overview

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.

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.

Estimated value

$1.50 - $2.50 in circulated condition, $5.00 - $10.00 in Uncirculated / Brilliant Uncirculated condition.

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.

Grade assessment

Very Fine (VF). Shows significant circulation wear, metal softening in the hair and crown detail, and numerous small contact marks/scratches on both fields.

Mintage & rarity

21,634,500 produced; Very Common

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.

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.

Care & preservation

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.