1975 United Kingdom Elizabeth II "Second Portrait" 5 New Pence Coin

**1975 United Kingdom Elizabeth II "Second Portrait" 5 New Pence Coin** ### Description Add an authentic piece of British history to your collection. This genuine 1975 United Kingdom coin features the elegant second official portrait of Queen Elizabeth II on the front and the crowned thistle of Scotland on the back, capturing a classic era of British decimal currency. * **Authentic Character:** Struck in cupro-nickel, featuring a sharply detailed profile of the Queen facing right, wearing the historic Girls of Great Britain and Ireland Tiara. The reverse proudly displays the Badge of Scotland—a royally crowned thistle flanked by leaves—with the crisp inscription "NEW PENCE 5". It displays a naturally aged vintage patina with solid rim details and clear lettering from over 50 years of history. * **The Perfect Addition:** A fundamental cornerstone for collectors of British Royal family memorabilia, world currency enthusiasts, or an eye-catching historical pocket piece. *(Note: You will receive the exact coin shown in the photos.)* ### What It Is & Where It Came From This coin was minted in 1975 by the Royal Mint in Llantrisant, Wales, during a major transitional chapter in British monetary history. Following the United Kingdom's historic "Decimalisation Day" in 1971—which permanently replaced the centuries-old pounds, shillings, and pence system—the country began circulating a streamlined decimal structure. The front of the coin bears the legendary Latin abbreviation surrounding the Queen's profile: **ELIZABETH II D·G·REG·F·D·1975**. ### The True Meaning Behind the Latin Inscription The lettering encircling the portrait is a direct continuation of a 400-year-old royal tradition. The inscription expands to the Latin phrase *"Elizabeth II Dei Gratia Regina Fidei Defensore."* Translated literally into English, it stands as a permanent historical statement of sovereignty: **"Elizabeth II, by the Grace of God, Queen, Defender of the Faith."** The title "Defender of the Faith" was originally granted to the English monarchy by the Pope in 1521 and has been proudly preserved on British coinage through the centuries. Owning this 1975 specimen gives you a direct, physical link to the mid-70s era of the British Realm.