Coronation Maundy Sets

1902, 1911 & 1937 Coronation Maundy Sets – A Royal Numismatic Tradition

The Coronation Maundy Sets of 1902, 1911, and 1937 are among the most significant and collectible British Maundy coinage, issued to mark the accession of new monarchs. Each set consists of four silver coins (Fourpence, Threepence, Twopence, and Penny) and follows the long-standing Maundy tradition, in which the reigning British monarch distributes specially struck coins to elderly recipients on Maundy Thursday before Easter.

These particular Maundy sets were special issues, marking the coronations of King Edward VII (1902), King George V (1911), and King George VI (1937). Each set remains highly collectible due to their historical significance, fine craftsmanship, and association with royal ceremonies.

1902 Coronation Maundy Set – King Edward VII

Issued in 1902, the first coronation Maundy set of the 20th century was struck to commemorate the ascension of King Edward VII following the death of Queen Victoria in 1901.

Design Features:

• Obverse: Features the right-facing bust of King Edward VII, designed by George William de Saulles. The inscription reads:
  • "EDWARDVS VII D: G: BRITT: OMN: REX F: D: IND: IMP:" (Edward VII, by the Grace of God, King of all Britain, Defender of the Faith, Emperor of India).
• Reverse: Displays the classic crowned numeral design, with the denomination (1, 2, 3, or 4) encircled by a wreath.

Specifications:

• Metal Content: .925 Sterling Silver
• Mintage: Limited issue, struck specifically for the 1902 Maundy ceremony.
• Historical Significance:
  ✔ First Maundy set of the Edwardian era.
  ✔ One of the earliest official numismatic commemorations of Edward VII’s coronation.

1911 Coronation Maundy Set – King George V

The 1911 Coronation Maundy Set was issued to mark the coronation of King George V, following the passing of his father, Edward VII, in 1910.

Design Features:

• Obverse: Features the left-facing bust of King George V, designed by Bertram Mackennal. The inscription reads:
  • "GEORGIVS V D: G: BRITT: OMN: REX F: D: IND: IMP:" (George V, by the Grace of God, King of all Britain, Defender of the Faith, Emperor of India).
• Reverse: Retains the traditional Maundy reverse—a crowned numeral encircled by a laurel wreath.

Specifications:

• Metal Content: .925 Sterling Silver
• Mintage: Very limited, with sets issued for the 1911 Maundy Thursday ceremony.
• Historical Significance:
  ✔ First Maundy set of the George V era.
  ✔ One of the last pre-World War I Maundy issues.

1937 Coronation Maundy Set – King George VI

The 1937 Maundy Set was issued to commemorate the coronation of King George VI, following the abdication crisis of 1936, when his brother Edward VIII renounced the throne.

Design Features:

• Obverse: Features the left-facing portrait of King George VI, designed by Thomas Humphrey Paget. The inscription reads:
  • "GEORGIVS VI D: G: BR OMN: REX F: D: IND: IMP:" (George VI, by the Grace of God, King of all Britain, Defender of the Faith, Emperor of India).
• Reverse: Maintains the traditional Maundy design—a crowned numeral surrounded by a laurel wreath.

Specifications:

• Metal Content: .500 Silver
• Mintage: Extremely limited, issued specifically for the 1937 Maundy ceremony.
• Historical Significance:
  ✔ First Maundy set of the George VI era.
  ✔ One of the last Maundy sets to feature “IND: IMP” (Emperor of India) before India’s independence in 1947.

Why Collect Coronation Maundy Sets?

✔ Royal Commemoration: These sets mark major moments in British history—the coronations of three different kings.
✔ Limited Mintage: Unlike regular Maundy coins, coronation issues were struck in very small numbers, making them highly collectible.
✔ Consistent Design & Fine Silver Content: The timeless design and sterling silver composition make them aesthetic and valuable numismatic pieces.
✔ Tangible Link to British Traditions: Maundy coinage dates back centuries, and these sets continue the legacy of a medieval royal practice.

Conclusion

The 1902, 1911, and 1937 Coronation Maundy Sets are prized collectibles, representing significant royal transitionsand the enduring tradition of Maundy coinage. Their historical importance, rarity, and elegant craftsmanship make them essential additions for collectors of British numismatics and royal memorabilia.