Scottish Coin Designs

Scottish Coins
Scotland did have its own coinage until about 400 years ago, and has always been represented in the design of British coins, mainly through the inclusion of the Scottish lion on the coats of arms which have traditionally been used for the designs of many different coins over the centuries. In 1937, two separate designs were made for the shillings, featuring different lions for England and Scotland. This changed in 1953 to a rampant lion for Scotland, and three lions or leopards for England. After decimalisation, the five pence continued to have a Scottish lion as its design. in addition to these, the two pound coin of 1986 had a large thistle as its main design, although this was to commemorate the Commonwealth Games held in Edinburgh that year. The pound coins rotate their designs every year in a five year cycle, so that in 1984 an eradicated thistle was used surrounded by a royal crown, this design was repeated in 1989. A Scottish lion was used in 1994 and 1999. We can expect to see another Scottish theme used for 2004.

Scottish Euro Designs
When Britain joins the euro, it is likely that at least one of the designs chosen for British euros will incorporate a Scottish theme. It is possible that when the decision is taken about British entry the Royal Mint may be instructed to produce designs for British euro coins, which will presumably embody themes relating to all the component parts of the British Isles, England, Scotland, Wales, and also Northern Ireland. Until then we will have to wait.

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