The 1839 Great Britain Una & the Lion Gold 5 Pounds coin is one of the most iconic and sought-after pieces from the early Victorian era. Struck only two years into Queen Victoria's reign, this coin is a masterpiece of numismatic art, designed by the renowned engraver William Wyon.
The obverse features a youthful portrait of Queen Victoria, facing left. This "Young Head" portrait is surrounded by the legend "VICTORIA D: G: BRITANNIARUM REGINA F: D:," which translates to "Victoria, by the Grace of God, Queen of the British Territories, Defender of the Faith."
The reverse depicts the legendary scene from Edmund Spenser's 16th-century epic, "The Faerie Queene," where Una leads the lion. This imagery symbolizes Truth and the full might of England. The intricate design showcases Una in flowing robes, guiding the lion, with the inscription "DIRIGE DEUS GRESSUS MEOS" (May the Lord direct my steps) above. The date "MDCCCXXXIX" (1839) is inscribed below in Roman numerals
