The "decus et tutamen" coins refer to a series of British one-pound coins that feature the Latin phrase, meaning "an ornament and a safeguard." The coin from 2008, featuring Queen Elizabeth II on the obverse and various designs on the reverse, is part of a collection that highlights different aspects of British heritage. In the U.S., this coin's value is determined by its collectible status rather than its face value, often ranging from a few dollars to more, depending on condition and demand.
As at 28-March-2012, One British Pound is worth $1.59 USD.
Essex Yeomanry's motto is 'Decus Et Tutamen'.
DECUS ET TUTAMEN is Latin meaning "A safeguard and an ornament". The phrase may have been originally used in Virgil's epic poem "Aeneid" written in the late 1st century BC.
Edge inscription: DECUS ET TUTAMEN ("An ornament and a safeguard" - originally on 17th century coins, this refers to the inscribed edge as a protection against the clipping of precious metal. The original appearance of the phrase is attributed to an epic poem by Virgil - "viro decus et tutamen in armis" (Aeneid, Book V, L. 262), describing a piece of armour, a breast-plate interwoven with gold, which was awarded as a prize to Mnestheus.) Designed byEric Sewell.[6]
Imperial College Business School's motto is 'Scientia imperii decus et tutamen'.
"Decus et Tutamen" is a Latin phrase that translates to "An Ornament and a Safeguard." It is often used to describe the dual purpose of something that serves both an aesthetic and protective function. This phrase is notably featured on the reverse side of coins minted by the Royal Mint in the United Kingdom, symbolizing the qualities of excellence and security associated with British coinage.
To identify a coin for valuing you really need to supply its date, its denomination, and the name of the country that issued it. However in this case the motto is enough of a clue to get started. It's found on the edge of £1 coins issued since 1983. Unless it's uncirculated it's only worth face value.
These coins are still potentially in circulation so, unless they are part of a Proof or uncirculated mint set or are individual Proof or uncirculated coins and in absolute mint condition, they are worth One Pound. A British 1993 nickel-brass One Pound coin (QE II)(Royal Arms design - edge "DECUS ET TUTAMEN"), uncirculated and in absolute mint condition could fetch up to £5 GBP. A British 1993 nickel-brass One Pound coin (QE II)(Royal Arms design - edge "DECUS ET TUTAMEN")(Proof FDC), uncirculated and in absolute mint condition could fetch up to £6 GBP. A British 1993 One Pound coin (QE II)(Royal Arms design - edge "DECUS ET TUTAMEN")(Proof in silver FDC), uncirculated and in absolute mint condition could fetch up to £30 GBP. A British 1993 One Pound coin (QE II)(Royal Arms design - edge "DECUS ET TUTAMEN")(Proof piedfort in silver FDC), uncirculated and in absolute mint condition could fetch up to £45 GBP. A reputable coin dealer will be able to give a more accurate valuation.
The error on some 1935 British Crown edge lettering reads "MEN.ANNO-REGNIXXV". It should read "DECUS ET TUTAMEN ANNO REGNI XXV".
These coins are still potentially in circulation so, unless they are part of a Proof or uncirculated mint set or are individual Proof or uncirculated coins and in absolute mint condition, they are worth One Pound. A British 1983 nickel-brass One Pound coin (Elizabeth II)(Royal Arms design - edge = "DECUS ET TUTAMEN"), uncirculated and in absolute mint condition could fetch up to £5 GBP. A British 1983 nickel-brass One Pound coin (Elizabeth II)(Royal Arms design - edge = "DECUS ET TUTAMEN")(specimen in presentation folder), in absolute mint condition could fetch up to £5 GBP. A British 1983 nickel-brass One Pound coin (Elizabeth II)(Royal Arms design - edge = "DECUS ET TUTAMEN")(Proof FDC), could fetch up to £5 GBP. A British 1983 One Pound coin (Elizabeth II)(Royal Arms design - edge = "DECUS ET TUTAMEN")(Proof in silver FDC), could fetch up to £35 GBP. A British 1983 One Pound coin (Elizabeth II)(Royal Arms design - edge = "DECUS ET TUTAMEN")(Proof piedfort in silver FDC), could fetch up to £125 GBP. A reputable coin dealer will be able to give a more accurate valuation.
The most common incuse lettering around the edge of a British Pound coin is "DECUS ET TUTAMEN", meaning "An ornament and a safeguard". It refers to safeguarding the coin from having "precious" metal shaved from the edge.
Imperial College Business School's motto is 'Knowledge is the adornment and protection of the Empire'.