HMS Beagle Gold-Plated Silver 2026 Proof Piedfort

HMS Beagle £2 Gold-Plated Silver Coin 2026 Proof Piedfort is an exclusive collector’s issue prepared by The Royal Mint, commemorating the 200th anniversary of the first voyage of HMS Beagle—one of the most important research vessels in the history of science.

The coin is struck in Ag.925 silver at the double weight characteristic of the Piedfort version, amounting to 24.00 g, with a diameter of 28.40 mm. The outer ring has been additionally gold-plated, emphasizing the prestigious nature of the issue. The face value is 2 British pounds (£2), and the piece is finished to the highest Proof quality. The mintage is limited to 1,000 pieces.

The design was created in collaboration with Royal Museums Greenwich, adding further historical and educational value to the issue.

The obverse, by Martin Jennings, features the official portrait of King Charles III, together with the denomination and the year of issue 2026.

The reverse, designed by William Webb, depicts the HMS Beagle surrounded by a decorative ring with motifs of animals observed by Charles Darwin during his voyage. The coin’s edge bears the inscription "THE VOYAGE OF THE BEAGLE", a direct reference to this historic expedition.

Thanks to its increased weight, gold plating, and limited mintage, the Piedfort version is a particularly attractive proposition for discerning collectors and enthusiasts of the history of science.