King James 2 Coin

Introducing the King James 2 Pound Coin

The King James Bible is known as ‘the most influential version of the most influential book in the world.’ This English translation was published in 1611 under the patronage of King James I of England by Robert Barker, the King’s official printer. It contains 39 books of the Old Testament, 14 books of the Apocrypha, and 27 books of the New Testament. The translation was done by 47 scholars from the Church of England. The King James Bible is also known as the ‘Authorised Version.’ Due to its low mintage figure, this coin is fairly hard to find in circulation. 

2011 King James Bible 2 Pound Coin

The King James Bible 2 pound coin features a design by Paul Stafford and Benjamin Right. It contains the first words from the Book of John, ‘In the beginning was the Word.’ The words are mirrored, with the left side reversed in printing block form, and the right side as the printed version. The printing block design is a reminder of the importance of the moveable-type printing press, which was needed for mass production. The edge has an inscription of the alternate name for the Bible, ‘The Authorised Version.’

(Caption: Title Page of the First Edition of the King James Bible)

How Much is the King James Bible 2 Pound Coin Worth?

This 2-pound coin has a fairly low mintage of 975,000, making it a scarce coin. It’s a little easier to find than the 2002 Commonwealth Games 2-pound coins but harder to find than the Magna Carta 2-pound coin. However, eBay’s highest auction, as of 2019, has sold it for only £11.50.

Other Versions of the King James Bible 2 Pound Coin

If you’re participating in the Great British Coin Hunt or want to have a nicer version of the coin, getting one of these following versions will be a great piece for your collection. The Royal Mint released Gold Proof (355 mintage, Silver Proof (4,500 mintage), Silver Proof Piedfort (3,500 mintage), and Brilliant Uncirculated versions of the Bible 2 pound coin as well.