2017 2 oz Silver Great Britain Queen’s Beasts – Dragon

In the heart of British heraldry lies a tale of mythical beasts, royal lineage, and enduring symbolism. The Red Dragon of Wales, a creature of legend and power, has stood as a guardian of the British monarchy for centuries. This ancient symbol, once carried into battle by Welsh kings, now finds new life in the Queen's Beasts series from the Royal Mint.

The story of the Red Dragon dates back to the 5th century, intertwined with the legend of Merlin and the struggle between the red and white dragons. As prophecy foretold, the red dragon's victory symbolized the triumph of the native Britons over the invading Saxons. This powerful imagery was later adopted by Welsh rulers, including Cadwaladr, the last king of Britain, who incorporated the dragon into his battle standard.

Through the ages, the Red Dragon's significance grew. It adorned the banners of Henry Tudor as he marched to claim the English throne, uniting the houses of Lancaster and York. Upon his coronation as Henry VII, the dragon took its place as an official royal beast, a testament to the new king's Welsh heritage and the unification of England and Wales.

The dragon's legacy continued through the Tudor dynasty, finding its place in the royal coat of arms and becoming an enduring symbol of Welsh identity. It stood guard at the coronation of Elizabeth II in 1953, one of ten heraldic beasts representing the Queen's royal ancestry and the rich tapestry of British history.

Now, this legendary creature takes center stage in the Queen's Beasts series, a collection that pays homage to the monarchical traditions and heraldic symbols that have shaped British identity for over a millennium. The 2017 2 oz Silver Queen's Beasts Dragon coin brings this powerful symbol to life, offering collectors and investors alike a tangible piece of British heritage.

As we delve into the intricate design and significance of this remarkable coin, we invite you to explore the intersection of history, artistry, and numismatic excellence that the Queen's Beasts series represents.

Design Features

The obverse of the 2017 2 oz Silver Queen's Beasts Dragon coin showcases the fifth definitive portrait of Queen Elizabeth II, created by the talented Royal Mint engraver Jody Clark. This portrait, introduced in 2015, depicts the Queen with regal poise, wearing the King George IV State Diadem. The intricate details of Her Majesty's features are rendered with remarkable precision, capturing both her dignity and the passage of time. Surrounding the portrait are the inscriptions "ELIZABETH II," "D.G. REG. F.D.," and the face value of "5 POUNDS," all executed in a classic serif font that complements the traditional nature of the design.

The reverse side of the coin is where the Red Dragon of Wales truly comes to life. Designed by Jody Clark, the dragon is portrayed in a fierce and dynamic pose, its wings unfurled and claws extended. The creature's serpentine body coils around a shield bearing the coat of arms of Llewelyn ap Gruffudd, the last native Prince of Wales. Every scale on the dragon's body is meticulously engraved, creating a texture that seems to ripple with movement. The dragon's open mouth, revealing sharp teeth, and its piercing eye convey a sense of vigilance and power.

Encircling the dragon are the words "RED DRAGON OF WALES" and the year "2017," while the weight and fineness of the coin are denoted at the bottom as "2 OZ FINE SILVER 999.9". The background field features a stippled texture, providing contrast to the smooth, polished areas of the design and enhancing the overall visual impact of the coin.

Product Highlights

• Metal Type: SILVER – Hedge
• Purity: 0.9999
• Weight: 2 oz
• Grade: BU – Brilliant Uncirculated
• Manufacturer: The Royal Mint
• IRA Eligible: Yes
• Obverse: Portrait of Queen Elizabeth II by Jody Clark
• Reverse: Red Dragon of Wales clutching a shield, designed by Jody Clark

Investment Appeal

The 2017 2 oz Silver Queen's Beasts Dragon coin presents a compelling opportunity for both collectors and investors. Its exceptional purity of .9999 fine silver ensures that it holds intrinsic value beyond its numismatic appeal. The coin's weight of 2 ounces offers a substantial silver content, making it an attractive option for those looking to diversify their precious metals portfolio.

The Queen's Beasts series has garnered significant attention in the numismatic world, with each release eagerly anticipated by collectors. The limited mintage of these coins, combined with their connection to British royal history, creates potential for appreciation over time. The Red Dragon of Wales, being one of the most iconic symbols in the series, holds particular appeal for collectors focusing on Celtic or Welsh themes.

For investors, the coin's IRA eligibility adds an extra layer of appeal, allowing it to be included in precious metals Individual Retirement Accounts. This feature provides a tax-advantaged way to invest in physical silver while also owning a piece of numismatic art.

The reputation of the Royal Mint, with its centuries-long history of producing high-quality coinage, lends additional credibility and desirability to this piece. The mint's global recognition ensures that these coins are widely accepted and easily liquidated if needed.

In conclusion, the 2017 2 oz Silver Queen's Beasts Dragon coin offers a unique blend of historical significance, artistic excellence, and investment potential. Whether you're drawn to its rich symbolism, impressed by its intricate design, or attracted by its precious metal content, this coin stands as a worthy addition to any collection or investment portfolio.