Modern Coins
Duke of Edinburgh; Prince Philip
Duke of Edinburgh; Prince Philip Mountbatten 1921-2021
Prince Philip, one of the most influential figures in the British royal family in the second half of the 20th century, has died at the age of 99 years and 10 months.
Philip – who was born a prince of the Kingdom of Greece just one year after King Farouk – led an eventful life full of interesting experiences. He studied in the United States, the United Kingdom and Nazi Germany, then joined the British Navy and met Princess Elizabeth in 1934. A tender love affair grew through their correspondence, which lasted for several years and eventually culminated in marriage during the reign of the bride's father, King George VI.
Philip's position throughout his life was very precise; he was a distinguished naval officer, a leader in the truest sense of the word, and he dreamed of continuing in this role until he achieved his ambition of becoming the youngest admiral in the mighty British Navy. But the sudden death of George VI changed everything when his wife Elizabeth became Queen in February 1952. He was forced to sacrifice his future to support her and to do his duty towards the whole kingdom.
Prince Philip was known for his strong personality and enlightened views. He worked to modernize the image of the royal family to ensure its continuity and prevent it from suffering the same fate as his own family in Greece. He was also known for his interest in science, having presented science programs for the BBC in the 1960s. On a personal level, he was known for his strictness with his son, Prince Charles, perhaps due to his own military upbringing. However, he also had a gentle side; he was quick-witted, sharp-minded, and had a great sense of humor. He also played a discreet role, recently revealed through letters he exchanged with his daughter-in-law, the late Princess Diana, in working hard to mend the rift between her and Prince Charles. In 2017, Prince Philip finally decided to retire from his official duties due to his declining health. He had requested a simple funeral, unlike his usual practice.
The marriage of Philip and Elizabeth was – and will likely remain for a long time – an example of devotion and fidelity. The United Kingdom and many other countries have celebrated it over the years, and the Prince’s image has appeared on many coins and stamps, whether through his role as the Queen’s husband or his charitable work with the Duke of Edinburgh’s White Hands organization in 140 countries.
Here we review some of these stamps and coins. There is no doubt that the Royal Mint and the Royal Mail were preparing to issue new commemorative items within two months to celebrate his 100th birthday, but they will most likely remain preserved in the archive records now.
