Edward VII (1901-10), gold matt proof Five Pounds, 1902, bare head right, De S. below truncation for engraver George W De Saulles, Latin legend and toothed border surrounding, EDWARDVS VII DEI GRA: BRITT: OMN: REX FID: DEF: IND: IMP:, rev. St. George and dragon right, broken lance to lower left, tiny B.P. in exergue for engraver Benedetto Pistrucci, 40.01g (WR 404; S.3966). Bagmarks to both sides and minor highpoint rub, almost extremely fine and a popular proof issue.

Calendar year mintage of 8,066.

The Matt Proof finish was perfected by George W De Saulles when he first worked upon the Diamond Jubilee medallions produced in 1897 for Queen Victoria, and the matt look rather than brilliant proof seems to have been very much the new innovation and in vogue when it came to producing the commemorative Coronation coins dated 1902 for King Edward VII.

Estimate: £ 1,500 - 1,800