2009 Robert Burns Circulated £2

Description

Robert Burns was born 25th January 1759 and died 21st July 1796 (aged just 37). He is often associated with Scotland, with many claiming him as the national poet. He is known for writing with a Scottish dialect, but also created poems and songs in standard English, often commentating on politics. Today his work has an influence on Scottish literature, and on 25th January every year his life and work is celebrated.

This £2 coin marks the 250th anniversary of Burns’ birth and was the first UK coin to feature a design based only on handwriting. An extract from “Auld Lang Syne” is shown, with key dates and the denomination surrounding it on the outer ring of the coin. This reverse design is by the Royal Mint Engraving Team and is used with Ian Rank-Broadley’s obverse design. The edge inscription states “SHOULD AULD ACQUAINTANCE BE FORGOT”.