The Trial of the Pyx A Royal Mint Tradition Dating Back to the 1200s

The Royal Mint is known around the world for its exceptional quality and centuries of coin making expertise. But did you know that every year, it must pass a centuries old test to prove that its coins meet the highest standards?

This test is called The Trial of the Pyx and it has been taking place in Britain for more than 700 years.

In this blog we explore what the Trial of the Pyx is where it comes from and why it still matters today.

What Is the Trial of the Pyx

The Trial of the Pyx is a formal procedure that checks whether coins produced by The Royal Mint meet strict standards for weight size and composition.

It is a public trial held annually at Goldsmiths' Hall in London overseen by an independent jury of freemen of the Goldsmiths' Company a historic livery company that has played a key role in British precious metal standards since the Middle Ages.

Despite its ancient roots the trial remains a legal requirement under British law and continues to ensure transparency and trust in the nation's coinage.

A Brief History of the Trial

The first recorded Trial of the Pyx took place in 1248 during the reign of King Henry III. It was originally established to prevent fraud and guarantee the integrity of the king’s coinage.

The word "Pyx" refers to the wooden chests or boxes used to store samples of newly minted coins. These samples would be set aside during production and sealed for examination later at the trial.

The trial itself was conducted in front of jurors judges and senior officials to ensure no tampering had occurred and that all coins met the required specifications.

Over the centuries while technology and techniques have changed the core purpose of the Trial of the Pyx has remained the same to protect the quality and reputation of British coinage.

How the Trial Works Today

Today the Trial of the Pyx is still held every year with great ceremony and precision.

Here is how it works

• Throughout the year random samples of coins are taken from batches produced at The Royal Mint in Llantrisant

• These samples are locked away in Pyx boxes and transported to Goldsmiths' Hall in London

• The trial is opened in a formal ceremony attended by the Kings Remembrancer the oldest judicial post in England

• A jury of assayers and experts from the Goldsmiths' Company then spends weeks testing the coins for weight size metal content and design accuracy

• Results are later presented in court and The Royal Mint receives either approval or formal notice of any issues found

The trial covers circulating coins commemorative coins and bullion coins including gold Sovereigns and Britannias.

Why It Still Matters

The Trial of the Pyx is not just a tradition it plays a critical role in maintaining public confidence in British coins.

For collectors it offers reassurance that coins bearing The Royal Mint’s stamp have been independently tested and meet precise legal standards.

It also reflects Britain’s unique heritage of combining craftsmanship accountability and excellence values that continue to define The Royal Mint today