2016 The Army First World War 'Shoulder to Shoulder' £2 Silver Proof Coin - Pre-Owned

The 2016 Army "Shoulder to Shoulder" £2 coin is the third in a five year series commemorating the First World War, with the coins taking us on a journey from outbreak to armistice.

This silver proof release pays tribute to the Pals Battalions which represent the camaraderie that bound the soldiers together, with an edge inscription as follows:

FOR KING AND COUNTRY

• Fineness:
  • Inner Alloy: 925 Sterling Silver
  • Outer Alloy: 925 Sterling Silver plated with Fine Gold
• Total Metal Weight: 0.3560 troy ounces
• Finish: Proof
• Item Weight: 12g
• Diameter: 28.40mm
• Presentation: The Royal Mint box
• Limited Edition Presentation: 5,000 coins

Please note: This product may show signs of age-related wear such as light scuffs to the box.

What Were Pals Battalions?

In 1914, Lord Kitchener's request for men to enlist drew an amazing response. Families, neighbours and friends who signed up together were put into 'Pals Battalions' so that they could fight together, side by side. Unfortunately, the results where that when whole communities fought together they could also be torn apart. 

British Army

The British Army is the UK's primary land force. Founded in 1707, the Army has seen involvement in most major wars in recent history, including both World Wars.

The formation of the Army dates back to the formation of the United Kingdom itself, in which the English and Scottish armies united into the British Army. The British Army has fought through many gruelling conflicts, notably the Battle of the Somme during World War I, the Battles of El Alamein in Egypt during World War II, and the now legendary stand of the 1st Battalion of the Gloucestershire Regiment during the Battle of Imjin River in the Korean War.

What is Proof?

Proof coins are specially produced to a much higher standard of finish than bullion coins, with multiple strikes for a highly-detailed design. These coins are not graded by condition but are instead defined by their method of production. Originally created as pre-production samples, proof coins now serve a prominent role in the collector's market.

Read more in our blog, What is Proof? An Overview of Coin Finishes.

The obverse features the fifth portrait of Queen Elizabeth II, designed by Jody Clark.

The reverse shows three of the 'Pals' shown side by side. The design was based on the work of the First World War artist C.R.W. Nevinson. The actual design comes from a creative consultancy called Uniform, led by the Creative Director, Tim Sharp.