The Royal Mint in Wales is known for its exceptional craftsmanship and dedication to producing coins of the highest quality, it presents the Royal Tudor Beasts 2022 Lion of England 1oz Gold Coin as a beautiful addition to its exquisite collection. This appealing coin pays homage to the rich historical heritage and regal legacy of England, encapsulating the essence of the nation's past.
After the House of Lancaster emerged victorious over the House of York in the Wars of the Roses (1455-1487), a new and powerful dynasty was established. Henry VII, who sought to solidify his reign by marrying Elizabeth of York and uniting the two houses, recognised the importance of showcasing the legitimacy of his rule. Inspired by mediaeval heraldry, he utilised symbolism to emphasise his rightful place on the English throne and had the ten stone beasts created to stand proudly on the Moat Bridge at Hampton Court Palace, representing his lineage and that of his third wife, Jane Seymour. These statues feature a combination of real and mythical creatures, each holding their own symbolic significance.
The Royal Tudor Beasts Range of gold and silver bullion coins feature images of these ten heraldic beasts. The range was first introduced in 2021 with the Seymour Panther, and the second coin to be introduced in this ten-coin series is the Lion of England, minted in 2022. The obverse of the coin was designed by David Lawrence and displays his interpretation of the statue at Hampton Court Palace, a testament to his skill, he has masterfully captured the spirit of the nation's emblematic symbol. The majestic lion is portrayed in a powerful and dignified stance, its untamed mane flowing and its fierce gaze exuding its mighty strength, bearing its teeth with its sharp claws unsheathed. This intimidating beast wears a royal crown and clutches a remarkably detailed shield bearing the combined coats of arms of Henry VIII and Jane Seymour. Every intricate element, from the muscular contours to the expression, has been meticulously rendered to create a coin that truly captures the attention and admiration of collectors and enthusiasts alike. The reverse of the coin displays a portrait of Her Late Majesty Queen Elizabeth II by Jody Clark, also brilliantly crafted.
For added security the coin features a surface animation texture behind the image of the lion created with the Royal Mint’s advanced laser technology.
The Royal Tudor Beasts Lion of England gold coin is minted from 1 troy ounce of 999.9 fine gold with a metric weight of 31.10 grams. It measures 32.69 mm in diameter and has a denomination of £100. It is also available as a ¼ oz gold coin and a 2oz silver coin.
With meticulous attention to detail it stands as a testament to the Royal Mint's commitment to creating numismatic masterpieces.
Metal | Gold |
Form | Gold Coin |
Country of Origin | United Kingdom |
Manufacturer | The Royal British Mint |
Series | Tudor Beasts |
Purity | 999.9/1000 |
Fineweight | 31.10 gram |
Gross Weight | 31.10 gram |
Denomination (oz) | 1 oz |
Year of issue | 2022 |
Grade | Brilliant |
Condition | Uncirculated |
Face value | 100 Pounds |
Diameter | 32.69 mm |
Packaging | Single in Pouch |
Packaging Unit | 10 per Tube |