2006 Two Pound Coin - Isambard Kingdom Brunel

In 2006 the Royal Mint released two coins celebrating the 200th year of the birth of one of Britain's greatest engineers - Isambard Kingdom Brunel (1806-1859). Brunel was a key figure in the Industrial Revolution and he is remembered for many things, including railways, steamships, bridges and buildings.

In 1843 while performing a conjuring trick for his children, Brunel accidentally swallowed a gold half-sovereign which became lodged in his windpipe. It proved difficult to remove and he needed some time to recuperate after it was eventually shaken out by his Father strapping him upside-down to a board.

This £2 coin shows a portrait of Isambard Kingdom Brunel. The reverse of the coin was designed by Rod Kelly.

The obverse is the Ian Rank-Broadley portrait of Queen Elizabeth II.

Edge inscription reads "1806-1859 ISAMBARD KINGDOM BRUNEL ENGINEER".