Modern coins, whether for circulating legal tender or special commemorative issues, are produced in exactly the same way using sophisticated minting techniques. The process begins when an engraver or artist is commissioned to create a design, which is typically much larger than the final coin will be. Artwork is often sculpted by hand before being digitally scanned for use. Once approved, the ‘blanks’ are made - a blanking press can produce up to 10,000 blank coins every minute! Next, the design is engraved into a piece of steel called a ‘reduction punch’ at the coin’s exact size, which is used to create the dies for striking. Finally, the blanks are inserted into a coining press where the two dies strike the finished design onto the coin.

Most commemorative coins issued by The Jubilee Mint are struck to the highest possible standard - the sought-after Proof finish. Achieving this level of quality takes significantly longer than other finishes; only a few can be produced each hour, compared to circulating coins, which are made at a much faster rate of 750 pieces per minute. While circulating coins are mass produced, Proof coins are made in smaller quantities to showcase the finest exemplary minting standards. The extended timeframe is crucial because the dies used are carefully prepared, cleaned after every strike, and replaced regularly to ensure outstanding quality. Proof releases are also struck at least twice to reveal the design at the most pristine clarity.

For the most important events or anniversaries, such as Queen Elizabeth II’s historic Platinum Jubilee, a number of different coin specifications are struck, ranging from the smallest coins to impressive large kilo pieces. In order to produce a varied range with different price points for collectors, Platinum Jubilee issues were struck in a mixture of base and precious metals, often to a high Proof finish. Higher priced premium pieces were available, such as the Piedfort, always a sought-after issue due to its double thickness, as well as sizeable 5oz golds and silvers, and even photographic issues whereby a full colour image is reproduced onto the coin’s reverse.