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The Queen’s Beasts Coins

The Queen’s Beasts coins are British coins produced by the Royal Mint in platinum, gold, and silver since 2016. Each of the ten coins in the series features a stylized version of one of the heraldic Queen’s Beasts statues from the coronation of Queen Elizabeth II. The silver coin is notable for being the first two-ounce United Kingdom silver bullion coin. The entire series was designed by engraver Jody Clark.

In December 2016, a full range of proof-quality coins was announced. The mint started producing platinum versions in 2017. In April 2021, the Royal Mint released an eleventh coin, known as the “Completer Coin,” featuring all ten Queen’s Beasts on one coin. This release included a unique 10 kg gold coin with a value of £10,000, which had an intrinsic value of approximately £411,000 based on the UK spot price at the time. It was reported as the heaviest gold coin ever produced by the Royal Mint and took 400 hours to make. This Completer Coin concluded the Queen’s Beasts series.

Single coins were delivered in plastic capsules or flips, as selected when ordering. Bulk orders were packaged in tubes: 10 coins per tube, 20 tubes per box. Proof coins came with a display box and a booklet about the beast’s heraldic significance.

Wholesale Direct Metals was announced as the exclusive North American distributor for the Lion of England bullion coins on February 18, 2016. By mid-2016, the coins were available from various sources, and the proof versions were widely available by December 2016.

Common Obverse

The obverse of each coin features the fifth definitive portrait of Queen Elizabeth II, surrounded by the inscription “ELIZABETH II • D • G • REG • F • D •” followed by the coin’s face value. The initials of artist Jody Clark appear below the portrait.

Reverse on Bullion Coins

The reverse of bullion coins displays a stylized version of the beast with the text “[BEAST’S NAME] • (¼/1/2/10)oz • FINE (GOLD/SILVER/PLATINUM) • 999.(5/9) • (2016/-/2021).” Jody Clark’s initials appear below the shield.

Reverse on Proof and Brilliant Uncirculated Coins

The reverse of proof and brilliant uncirculated coins features a slightly different stylized version of the beast. The text reads “[BEAST’S NAME] • (2016/-/2021),” with Jody Clark’s initials within the shield.

List of Coins

  1. Lion of England – Released in March 2016.
  2. Griffin of Edward III – Released in 2017.
  3. Red Dragon of Wales – Released in 2017.
  4. Black Bull of Clarence – Released in 2018.
  5. Unicorn of Scotland – Released in 2018.
  6. Yale of Beaufort – Released in 2019.
  7. Falcon of the Plantagenets – Released in 2019.
  8. White Lion of Mortimer – Released in 2020.
  9. White Horse of Hanover – Released in 2020.
  10. White Greyhound of Richmond – Released in 2021.
  11. Completer Coin – Released in April 2021, featuring all ten beasts.

Specifications

The coins come in various weights and metals, including gold, silver, and platinum. The sizes and face values vary, with the proof coins being produced in limited editions and higher weights compared to the bullion versions.

Mintage

The mintage numbers for each coin vary by year and design. The figures include details on the number of coins minted in each series and their respective editions.

Conclusion

The Queen’s Beasts series of coins represents a remarkable collection of British numismatic art, celebrating the heraldic statues that adorned the coronation of Queen Elizabeth II. Issued by the Royal Mint in platinum, gold, and silver since 2016, each coin showcases a stylized version of one of the ten Queen’s Beasts, reflecting the rich heritage of the British monarchy.

From the release of the first coin, the Lion of England, to the final “Completer Coin” that features all ten beasts, this series has been highly valued by collectors and investors alike. The unique designs by engraver Jody Clark and the introduction of significant releases, such as the 10 kg gold coin, highlight the series’ significance and craftsmanship. The Queen’s Beasts coins not only serve as symbols of royal lineage but also as cherished collectibles in the world of numismatics.

 

 

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