The Royal Mint in Wales has built a reputation for its remarkable artistry and commitment to crafting coins of exceptional quality. The Royal Tudor Beasts 2023 Bull of Clarence 1oz Gold Coin offers yet another beautiful addition to this captivating collection.
Following the triumph of the House of Lancaster over the House of York in the Wars of the Roses (1455-1487), a formidable new dynasty emerged. Henry VII, driven by the desire to strengthen his reign, orchestrated a union between Elizabeth of York and himself, effectively merging the two houses. Recognising the significance of demonstrating the legitimacy of his rule, Henry drew inspiration from mediaeval heraldry and employed symbolism to underscore his rightful place on the English throne. As a testament to his lineage and that of his third wife, Jane Seymour, he commissioned the creation of ten stone beasts to proudly adorn the Moat Bridge at Hampton Court Palace. These statues, combining both real and mythical creatures, bear profound symbolic meaning, each representing a distinct facet of their shared heritage.
The Royal Tudor Beasts Bullion Collection is a fascinating series which includes bullion coins displaying these ten heraldic beasts. It commenced in 2021 with the introduction of the Seymour Panther and this ten-coin series now welcomes its third addition: the Bull of Clarence, minted in 2023. The obverse of the coin showcases the artistic brilliance of David Lawrence, who meticulously crafted his interpretation of the statue gracing Hampton Court Palace. Lawrence has skillfully captured the essence of this symbol of power. The fierce bull clutches a shield bearing the Tudor Rose, this unique floral emblem combines the red rose of Lancaster and the white rose of York into a single design representing the union of the two powerful English houses. Henry VII’s marriage to Elizabeth of York symbolised the end of the Wars of the Roses and the beginning of the Tudor era. The reverse of the coin displays a portrait of His Majesty The King by Martin Jennings, the first in this series to include the official coinage portrait. For added security the coin features a surface animation texture in the background which was created with the Royal Mint’s advanced laser technology.
The Royal Tudor Beasts Bull of Clarence 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. The bullion range of the Royal Tudor Beasts series also offer a ¼ oz gold coin, as well as 2oz and 10oz silver coins and a 1 oz platinum coin. This diverse selection ensures that collectors and enthusiasts have various choices to suit their preferences and investment goals.
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 | 2023 |
Grade | Brilliant |
Condition | Uncirculated |
Face value | 100 Pounds |
Thickness | 2.79 mm |
Diameter | 32.69 mm |
Packaging | Single in Pouch |
Packaging Unit | 10 per tube |