Coin celebrates 250 years since birth of Sir Walter Scott A Sir Walter Scott coin (Royal Mint/PA) A £2 coin to commemorate 250 years since the birth of Sir Walter Scott has been launched by the Royal Mint. Born in 1771, Sir Walter is known for his contribution to literature thanks to his novels and poems. Designed by textual artist Stephen Raw, the coin was inspired by the artist’s visit to Abbotsford, the home of Sir Walter. Matthew Maxwell Scott (Phil Wilkinson/Royal Mint/PA) On the £2 coin, the words “Sir Walter Scott novelist, historian and poet” are inscribed in the same calligraphy as at Abbotsford’s grand entrance and chapel. The design also includes Scott’s portrait modelled on the Scott Monument.