2017 1/4 oz Great Britain Queen’s Beast Gold Coin – Griffin

Step into the realm of British heraldry with the 2017 1/4 oz Great Britain Queen’s Beast Gold Coin featuring the majestic Griffin of Edward III. This coin is not just a piece of precious metal; it’s a portal to centuries of royal symbolism and power. The Griffin, a legendary creature with the body of a lion and the head and wings of an eagle, has long been associated with strength, courage, and nobility in European heraldry.

Edward III, one of England’s most formidable medieval monarchs, chose the Griffin as his personal badge during his 50-year reign from 1327 to 1377. This period saw significant developments in English culture, law, and military prowess, with the Griffin symbolizing the king’s dual nature as a fierce warrior and a wise ruler. Edward III’s reign marked the beginning of the Hundred Years’ War with France and saw the establishment of the Order of the Garter, England’s oldest and most prestigious order of chivalry.

The Queen’s Beasts series, of which this Griffin coin is a part, draws inspiration from the ten heraldic statues that stood guard at Queen Elizabeth II’s coronation in 1953. These statues represented the genealogical history of the new monarch, tracing her lineage back through centuries of royal bloodlines. The Griffin of Edward III stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of the Plantagenet dynasty and its lasting impact on British history.

In medieval lore, the Griffin was believed to be the king of all creatures, combining the regality of the lion with the divine power of the eagle. This mythical beast was said to guard priceless treasures and possessions, making it a fitting symbol for a coin that itself is a treasure to behold. The use of the Griffin in royal heraldry dates back to the 12th century in England, but its origins can be traced even further to ancient civilizations in the Near and Middle East.

The Royal Mint, with its thousand-year history of coin production, has masterfully captured the essence of this legendary creature on a canvas of pure gold. The coin’s design pays homage to the original coronation statue while infusing it with a dynamic, modern aesthetic that appeals to contemporary collectors and investors alike. As you hold this coin, you’re not just possessing a piece of gold; you’re holding a tangible connection to the grand tapestry of British royal history.

This Griffin coin represents more than just its weight in precious metal. It embodies the continuity of British monarchy, the artistry of modern minting techniques, and the timeless appeal of mythological symbolism. Whether you’re a seasoned numismatist, a history enthusiast, or an investor looking for a unique addition to your portfolio, this coin offers a compelling blend of historical significance, artistic beauty, and intrinsic value.

Design Features

The obverse of the coin showcases the latest portrait of Queen Elizabeth II, created by Royal Mint engraver Jody Clark. This effigy, introduced in 2015, depicts the Queen wearing the King George IV State Diadem, a crown traditionally worn for the State Opening of Parliament. The intricate details of the portrait, from the Queen’s elegant features to the delicate rendering of the crown, demonstrate the exceptional skill of modern coin engravers.

On the reverse, the Griffin of Edward III stands in a heraldic pose, its eagle wings spread majestically and its lion’s paws gripping a shield bearing the badge of the House of Windsor. The creature’s powerful beak, sharp talons, and muscular body are rendered with exquisite detail, capturing the mythical beast’s fierce and noble nature. The background features a textured pattern reminiscent of chainmail, adding depth and historical context to the design. The coin’s weight, purity, and year of minting are also inscribed, along with the face value, underlining its status as legal tender.

Product Highlights

• Metal Type: Gold
• IRA Eligible: No
• Obverse: Portrait of Queen Elizabeth II by Jody Clark
• Reverse: Griffin of Edward III in heraldic pose with shield

Investment Appeal

The 2017 1/4 oz Great Britain Queen’s Beast Gold Coin – Griffin offers a unique investment opportunity that goes beyond the intrinsic value of gold. As part of the limited Queen’s Beasts series, this coin has the potential for appreciation not only due to its precious metal content but also its numismatic value. The series has gained popularity among collectors worldwide, which can drive demand and potentially increase premiums over time.

Investors are drawn to this coin for its connection to British royal history and its exceptional craftsmanship. The Royal Mint’s reputation for producing high-quality bullion adds to the coin’s credibility and liquidity in the global precious metals market. Furthermore, the smaller 1/4 oz size makes it more accessible to a wider range of investors and allows for greater flexibility in portfolio management.

For those looking to diversify their investment portfolio with tangible assets, this Griffin coin represents an opportunity to own a piece of art that also serves as a store of value. Its historical significance and limited mintage provide a hedge against inflation while offering the potential for long-term appreciation. Whether you’re building a collection of numismatic treasures or seeking a unique way to invest in precious metals, the 2017 Queen’s Beast Griffin gold coin stands as a testament to the enduring allure of British coinage and the timeless value of gold.