2004 Steam Locomotive £2 BU

Description

Richard Trevithick was born in 1771 and became an engineer, with his greatest achievement the successful use of high-pressure steam in his 1804 locomotive. On 21st February 1804, his locomotive became the first to use high-pressure steam to transport 10 tons of iron and 70 men over almost 10 miles. This was a great engineering milestone, and changed the way that steam was used.

This coin, issued in 2004, represents Trevithick’s steam locomotive, surrounded by a cog with key details around the outside. This reverse design is by Robert Lowe and was accompanied by the obverse from Ian Rank-Broadley. The edge inscription is of a railway line pattern.