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

The 2017 2 oz Silver Great Britain Queen's Beasts – Griffin coin stands as a testament to the rich heraldic traditions of the British monarchy. This magnificent piece draws inspiration from the ten statues that stood guard during Queen Elizabeth II's coronation in 1953, each representing a facet of the royal lineage. The Griffin, a mythical creature blending the majesty of the lion with the keen sight and swiftness of an eagle, holds a special place in British heraldry as a symbol of courage and strength.

Tracing its roots back to the 12th century, the Griffin first appeared in English heraldry during the reign of Richard the Lionheart. Its adoption as a royal beast signifies the fusion of earthly might and divine wisdom, qualities highly prized by medieval monarchs. The creature's association with Edward III, one of England's most formidable warrior kings, further cements its status as a powerful emblem of royal authority.

In creating this coin, the Royal Mint has masterfully captured the essence of the Griffin, breathing life into ancient symbolism through modern minting techniques. The detailed craftsmanship evident in every scale and feather pays homage to the skilled artisans who carved the original coronation statues, bridging centuries of artistic tradition.

For numismatists and investors alike, this coin represents more than just a piece of silver. It embodies a tangible connection to British history, offering a unique blend of cultural significance and precious metal value. The Griffin's watchful gaze seems to transcend time, linking the present-day collector to the grand tapestry of England's royal past.

As part of the Queen's Beasts series, this Griffin coin holds particular appeal for those fascinated by the intricate web of royal genealogy and heraldic symbolism. Each beast in the series tells a story of power, legacy, and the enduring nature of monarchical tradition, with the Griffin standing proud as a guardian of this rich heritage.

Moreover, the coin's release in 2017 marked a significant moment in numismatic history, as it continued the Royal Mint's tradition of producing coins that are both works of art and stores of value. The combination of historical depth, artistic merit, and precious metal content makes this Griffin coin a coveted addition to any collection, appealing to both seasoned numismatists and newcomers to the world of coin collecting.

Design Features

The obverse of the coin features the fifth definitive portrait of Queen Elizabeth II, created by Royal Mint engraver Jody Clark. This portrait, introduced in 2015, depicts the Queen wearing the King George IV State Diadem, a piece she traditionally wears to the State Opening of Parliament. The intricate details of the portrait, from the subtle lines on Her Majesty's face to the delicate rendering of the diadem, showcase the exceptional skill of modern minting techniques.

On the reverse, the Griffin of Edward III takes center stage, presented in a pose of majestic vigilance. The creature stands tall, its eagle wings spread wide, creating a sense of protective power. In its claws, it grasps a shield bearing the badge of the House of Windsor – a callback to the Griffin's role as a supporter of the royal arms. The background features a textured pattern reminiscent of chainmail, adding depth and a subtle nod to medieval armor. The inscription "GRIFFIN OF EDWARD III" arches above the design, while the year "2017", weight, and purity are noted below.

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: Griffin of Edward III with shield and chainmail background

Investment Appeal

The 2017 2 oz Silver Great Britain Queen's Beasts – Griffin coin presents a compelling investment opportunity for several reasons. Its high purity of 0.9999 fine silver ensures that it holds intrinsic value beyond its numismatic appeal. The coin's weight of 2 ounces provides a substantial amount of precious metal, making it an attractive option for those looking to diversify their investment portfolio with physical assets.

The coin's status as part of the Queen's Beasts series adds to its collectible value. Limited mintage numbers and the series' popularity among collectors worldwide contribute to potential appreciation over time. The Royal Mint's reputation for quality and the coin's legal tender status in the United Kingdom further enhance its credibility and liquidity in the global precious metals market.

For investors concerned about retirement planning, the IRA eligibility of this coin offers an additional advantage. It allows for the inclusion of physical precious metals in a tax-advantaged retirement account, providing a hedge against economic uncertainty and currency fluctuations.

The combination of historical significance, artistic merit, and precious metal content makes this Griffin coin a smart choice for both numismatic enthusiasts and precious metal investors. As a piece that bridges the gap between ancient heraldry and modern bullion, it offers a unique opportunity to own a slice of British royal history while potentially benefiting from the enduring value of silver.