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More than 5000 entries on the history, culture and life of Britain (published in 1993 by Macmillan, now out of print)
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Trial of the Pyx
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Annual ceremony, dating back in its present form to the 13C, in which the coin of the realm is tested to ensure that it is up to standard in weight and quality. During the course of the year one coin is taken from every batch produced at the Royal *Mint; these sample coins are brought to Goldsmiths' Hall in London for the Trial (the Pyx is an old name for the chest in which the coins are kept). Sample coins are again selected to be matched and weighed against a standard 'plate', before being assayed for the quality of the metal.
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